Happy Birthday
XO

Leaving you all a little extra love today. We admire your strength and grace, and we'll always remember your sweet, precious Jacob. 💙💫

Today, just wanted to thank you and tell you that you are an amazing mother, one of my "angel moms," so grateful for your friendship. Grief brought us closer quicker, and I am a better person for knowing you and jacob. your shooting star who taught me so many valuable lessons. I admire you and love you, for being you, an early happy mothers day-to an incredible mom, person and friend. XO

XO

XO

thinking of you xoxo

Sending you lots of birthday love Jacob

Happy birthday Jacob!! Sending you lots of birthday love...Xoxoxo
Rikki, Rob, Lindsay, Emmy & Parker

XO

Happy Birthday!

We miss and love you everyday.

Thinking of you, sweet Jacob, and sending your beautiful family lots of love today and always. 💕

Thinking of you Jacob and your beautiful smile....sending you and your family lots of love today and always Xoxoxo
Rikki, Rob, Lindsay, Emmy & Parker

Thinking of you Jacob - sending your family lots of love everyday, but especially today 💙

Happy Birthday Jacob. Thinking of you today and always. Love you and your beautiful family. Sending hugs...
Love, Melissa, Dave, Zach, Jason and Emily

Happy 14th Birthday Jacob! We miss you and think of you every day! We love you so much! Love always, Lisa, Lewis, Adam, Nathan & Sarah XOXOXO!!!

Happy Birthday, sweet angel! Thinking of you and your family today and always! We love you! xoxoxo

Happy birthday Jacob!!! We love you and miss you every day...sending you lots of hugs and kisses!!! Xoxoxoxo
Rikki,Rob,Lindsay,Emmy&Parker

You are in our thoughts everyday Jacob, but today especially. Thinking about you and sending your amazing family love today and always 💖💫❤️🌟
Love, Ashley, Dave, Ethan and hailey

I love you guys so much!!!! Thinking of Jacob and sending extra love!!!

Thinking of your sweet smile today, Jacob. Sending your beautiful family lots of love today and always.

Jacob you are always in our thoughts, but today especially, we are thinking of you and your beautiful family. We miss you and love you all. xoxo
Love, Melissa, Dave, Zach, Jason & Emily

We miss you Jacob!! Thinking
about you and your beautiful
family today and always...
love you!!!
Xoxoxo
Rikki,Rob,Lindsay,Emmy&Parker

Thinking of you today Jacob and remembering your adorable smile. Sending love & hugs to all of you XOXO

xo

jacob,

it was a beautiful day yesterday. the walk is always so inspiring, as are the many sma families who come each year. you continue to touch so many people, so many families. you are a true teacher, jacob and i am blessed to be one of your students.

Happy birthday Jacob! Thinking of you always!!! Xox

Happy birthday Jacob!!!! We love and miss you...sending lots of birthday hugs and kisses to you and your beautiful family!!Xoxoxo
Rikki,Rob,Lindsay,Emmy &Parker

Happy Birthday! Thinking of you today and always xo

Happy Birthday Jacob! Always miss you and your beautiful smile! You are forever in our hearts. Sending hugs to all of you today. Love you so much! XOXO! Love, Lisa, Lewis, Adam, Nathan & Sarah

Sending our love and prayers to you today...we miss you, Jacob...xoxo

Sending you all lots of love today!! Jacob is always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts!! xoxo
Love, Melissa, Dave, Zach, Jason & Emily

Sending lots of love to all of you. Missing you Jacob Isaac xoxo

Miss u love u Jacob ... With all our hearts. You r a gift beyond measure as an earthly angel and as a heavenly angel. Grammy

Sending you all our love and big hugs today...we miss you Jacob!!!
XOXOXO,
Rikki,Rob,Lindsay,Emmy and Parker

Sending you all our love and big hugs today...we miss you Jacob!!!♥️
XOXOXO,
Rikki, Rob,Lindsay,Emmy and Parker

Sending love, hugs and prayers to all of you today! We miss you Jacob! XO

My prayers and heart goes out to your family. My name is Kareem Reese and my daughter just got diagnosed with sma this was a death blow to me and my family my email address is kjreemo73@yahoo.com just want to get a personal perspective on this if you up to maybe your husband can help me from a male perspective

Happy 12th Birthday Jacob. We are thinking of you today and always. Sending lots of love and hugs to you and your amazing family. We love you all!!!
Love, Melissa, Dave, Zach, Jason & Emily

Happy Birthday Jacob! We love you and miss you every day! You will always be in our hearts! XOXO!
Love, Lisa, Lewis, Adam, Nathan & Sarah

xo

Dear Jacob,
We miss you so much every single day, but especially today. We love you so much and always!!!!!!! You will always be alive in our hearts....
We love you all!!!!
XOXOOXOXXO,
Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy and CHloe

Sending you all lots of love and big hugs today. Jacob is always missed and forever in our hearts. xoxo

Thinking about you today and always Jacob...We LOVE you Shaina, Adi,Jordan,Max and Sam! Jacob will always be in our hearts...XOXOXO

miss and love u sweet Jacob everyday and especially today as I remember all you gave and all we lost today ...

Sending you all lots of love today, on Jacob's angel day. Jacob, you are always in our thoughts....we love you all! Shaina, Adi, Jordan, Jacob, Max and Sam. xoxo

Shaina, your words leave us speechless.The incredible love you have for Jacob is apparent in everything you do and you put it so beautifully into words just now. We love you and we are sending you a big hug. We miss Jacob, our first nephew, and a piece of our hearts break for you, Adi, Jordan, Max and Sam on Jacob's angel day. What a loss. What a sweet and strong boy. We love you Jacob, ALWAYS!

Thinking about you and your family today, Jacob. You are in our in hearts forever. XOXO

Sending you all a loving prayer today. Our thoughts are always with you and your very precious angel. We love you! xoxoxo
Dalia, Dave, Jake, Jaden, & Kai

Fragments.

Days before...
Wondering how long you could go on like you were- fighting for each breath.

Wondering how long I could go on wondering how long I had left to hold you.

The day before...
Not being able to keep your oxygen levels up. Jolie bringing Jordan home from school and me barely being able to leave your side long enough to answer the door.

Granny, Pop Pop, Mom and Dad coming over- bringing Jordan a bicycle- an early birthday present. Pop Pop and Dad assembling it.

Watching Baby Bach, holding your hand, patting your tush. Your sweaty hair, quiet breaths, your rocket pajamas, striped sheet.

Scared for you, scared for us.
Rocking you, telling you we loved you. Again and again and again. And again. Calling Jordan in to say goodbye. Dr Kaweblum sitting in your tiny room with me.

Sitting on my doorstep helplessly while I watched the car from the funeral home drive away with both the shell of what was my son and my heart.

Fragmented forever.

Always thinking of you Jacob but especially tonight and wishing your family strength and peace tomorrow on your angel day. You will always be in our hearts! We love you and miss you so much! As the years pass by we always keep you close by talking about the memories we made with you. Your family continues to amaze us and inspire us each day! We love you always and forever beautiful Jacob Isaac! XOXO!

You are always on our minds and in our hearts Jacob.

the middle

i miss my would-be-first time-middle schooler this week.

the first day of school has always been hard for me. new beginnings, new teachers, getting everyone ready.
setting bedtimes, allowances, goals and expectations for everyone. everyone but you.

it tugs at me. it doesn't completely crush me like it did on your would-be-first-day of pre-school or elementary school did. but it tugs. i tried so hard to picture what you'd look like today. it is such an impossible dream to visualize.
i can envision your backpack, your clothes, maybe even the way you'd stand- but your pre-teenage face? i can't find it.

it hurts that we don't get to have beginnings and endings with you. there is just the middle. the grief doesn't begin or end anymore like a school year does. it just stays. and the middle of grief seems like a very long time. i wish i could watch you grow up. we miss you.

Good luck tomorrow with the event! Wish we were there in person...thank you for all you do!!! *hugs*

xo/cu

Dear Jacob,
Happy 11th birthday! We miss you SO MUCH today, and every day....
We love you!
Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy and Chloe XOXOXOXOXO

Happy 11th Birthday Jacob! The day you were born was such a happy day! Always thinking of your big expressive eyes and your beautiful smile! We know you are watching over us and your amazing family! We love you and miss you more than words can say! We talk about you often and wish you were still here with us! You will forever be in our hearts Jacob! Xoxoxo! Love Always,
Lisa, Lewis, Adam, Nathan & Sarah

Happy 11th Birthday Jacob!! Thinking of you and missing you today and always.

Dear Jacob, Happy 11th Birthday! I only wish that instead of sitting around wondering what you have wanted your birthday to be like, we could actually be out celebrating. Every day, I wonder what you'd be like and what kind of stuff you'd be into. Would you be on sports teams with Max, play video games with Sam, or Jam at School of Rock with me? I wonder what kind of party you would want. I picture helping you with homework or giving you advice. I wish that you were able to celebrate my bat mitzvah with me. I even wish you were here to help Max and Sam annoy me when my friends come over. For your "party", Mom, Max, Sam, and I are going to the movies to see Parental Guidance together. Tomorrow, we are going to visit Aunt Rachel and your cousin Jasyn in Miami, and the Falks, Birnbaums, and Lehmans (all your best friends) are coming over to celebrate. I'm sure that on your birthday, all the people in Heaven give you a humungous party. I bet that you get a super big cake with lots of chocolate frosting, and you get to hang out with Sawyer, Peyton, Shelly, Tyler, and all your angel friends. Last night, I was reading mommy and daddy's journal on the website. The daily struggle that Mommy and Daddy had to go through made me sad, but I was happy that your life was special to so many people. The amount of lives you touched and amount of people you filled with joy is endless. A certain journal entry jumped out at me; when mom is comparing you to a shooting star. She says, "a couple of months ago adi used the metaphor of a shooting star to describe Jacob. I think it is perfect. A shooting star is "a beautiful phenomenon that shines brightly, rare, visible on earth for only an instant, remembered forever." Not a day goes by when I don't think of you, my little shooting star. I love you so much. xoxo, Big Sister Jordan

We are thinking of you on your 11th birthday Jacob! We wish so much that you were here with us! We love you and miss you so much.

Happy birthday Jacob!! I love you so much!

Happy Birthday Jacob. Party in heaven Jacob. I miss you .I love you.

today 11 years ago was such a happy day.. we had a beautiful new baby boy in the family. i wish you were here for me to tell you the story of when i first saw you and how i took care of you..just like i tell your brothers and sister and your cousins. i love you and miss you jacob. in my heart...forever.

Happy 11th Birthday Jacob!! Sending you lots of love.
XOXO Jolie, Murray, Olivia, Ethan & Sophie

Thinking of you today Jacob on your birthday. Remembering the happy news of your arrival 11 years ago today. Much love to you and your family.

Thinking of u alot oday.

Love you all! God Bless

Dear Jacob,
We miss you SO MUCH and we LOVE YOU! We are sending you all our love, hugs, and kisses today and every day....
XOXOX,
Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy and Chloe

Thinking about you Jacob and your beautiful family today....we love and miss you everyday!!!!XOXOXOXO

Thinking of you today, wishing there was no pain...love you rappoports - Shaina, Adi, Jordan, Jacob, Max and Sam!!!! xoxo

thinking of you, especially today..you are forever in the hearts of so many and will always be...xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxooxoxoxo

"My grace is enough for you for my power is made perfect in your weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9

What a contradiction these words are. Power born out of weakness. Perfection wielded from rubble. Ten years ago, I wouldn't have thought it probable, not even possible.

Ten years ago, it was by G-d's grace, my blind faith in Jesus' words (above) from II Corinthians 12:9 and a will supported by the Holy Spirit (whispering for me to bend but not be broken) that brought my husband Jason and I to have this verse and its words chiseled onto our son Sawyer's grave. We buried him just a few months before his first birthday.

Being diagnosed with SMA, Type 1 was the only time I have seen my husband cry. Moments before the doctor's call, we thought our baby just had "muscle weakness". The next thing we were told there was no treatment. No cure.

Then by G-d's hand, and the efforts of a dear friend, we learned of Families of SMA and their mission to find a cure and connect families. It is through FSMA that I had the honor of meeting the Rappoport family.

As mothers, it's easy to see how we might have had a need to converse, share, make some sense of this damaging diagnosis. We weren't Shaina and Amy. We were Jacob's mommy and Sawyer's mom. It is how we referred to one another when trying to explain to family our new friendship.

First it was a few email exchanges then phone conversations highlighting our path to diagnosis and health care decisions. Some weeks our sons' conditions mirrored one another so much that it was the voice of Jacob's mommy that brought me more comfort, more sanity, more endurance than any medical professional.

We were the professionals. We, with our families' help, were the care takers, the suctioners, the CPT-ers, the cough-assisters, the billy-buttoners. We were unwilling experts at all these things for our sons' sakes. We were all so very young.

We wanted to meet each other, but there was so much to be done. Each sunrise there were more memories that had to be made. Each day brought the monotony of life-sustaining medical routines and blessings of smiles from our sons. Each sunset we collapsed exhausted, knowing that the best day of this baby's life had just passed us by.

So we made a pact to try and meet. Sawyer was the first to die, and on the day after returning from his funeral I got on a plane to meet Jacob, to meet this precious family I had come to cherish. Upon arriving I called my husband and he was silent.

There I was, at the apex of this journey with Jacob's mommy, the past six months of our grueling partnership, our growing friendship behind me and a silent white door in front of me. I asked my husband, "If there's something in the other side of this door I need to know about, you better tell me now."

Shiva had already begun. I was too late. I didn't get to meet Jacob.

I clung to the words from my own son's grave marker as I knocked on the door and asked for Shaina. Remember we had never met. Her family, in their own defense was only protecting her, and looked at me with a bit of disgust.

"I'm Sawyer's mom."

The power of love was perfected in my moment of weakness. Their faces immediately melted, the armor removed, and their arms welcomed this otherwise stranger into their home during that solemn, holy time.

Just days prior so many angels unaware had carried Jason and I through the burial of our son. Now, in their moment of suffering, Jacob's mommy and her family poured their grace on me by allowing me to stay and say goodbye to the little boy I knew but never met.

"My grace is enough for you for my power is made perfect in your weakness."

Even though Sawyer and Jacob have crossed over Jordan, these words serve as a reminder, stacked in solidarity, of G-d's offerings and faithfulness, just like the ones balanced by Moses when he and the Israelites crossed into the Promised Land so many generations ago (Deut. 27:5).

Shaina, I read your words -- "no, please don't say kaddish for my son!" -- and I weep. At a church meeting last night as I was sharing this very story with our elders, I told them they would have to stop singing about Heaven so beautifully or else place tissue boxes on every aisle. It hurts more - that joy suffocated by pain - when you know a few people that are already there.

Thank you for opening your lives and hearts and your home to me, ten years ago today. Thank you for sharing Jacob's life with so many through his foundation. Thank you for the blessing of hope you gave to me then and your efforts impart on so many today.

With love,
Sawyer's mom

Sending you lots of love today!! Jacob is never far from our thoughts and always in our heart!! Love you guys!!!

Thinking of you and your amazing family today. You are missed and loved very much.

Thinking of Jacob tonight knowing tomorrow is his angel day. Sending love to him and his mommy, daddy, sister and brothers.
Love, The Novaks

Thinking out you and loving you today and everyday.

Thinking of Jacob today and always. Sending big hugs and love your way XOXOXO

Thinking of you today and sending you all a big hug! Love you so much! Missing Jacob and remembering him always! XOXOXOXO!

Sending you lots of love today...and always remembering your sweet angel boy...xoxoxo

Thinking about Jacob your family today. XOXO

i thought that maybe this would be the year it wouldn't come. after all, we have so much to celebrate this year- maybe i could occupy myself with enough excitement that the grief wouldn't be able to creep into my head. maybe after ten years, i'd learn how to push it to the back and keep it there.

i was wrong. it came.

it was there when i got home from the hospital after meeting my beautiful, perfect nephew minutes after he was born. it was there when i heard amy's voice on sawyer's angel day. it was there when the congregation recited the mourner's kaddish on yom kippur because it brought me back to the first time we said kaddish for jacob and i remembered how i felt in that moment. that i had been silent, but only wanted to shout- "no!, please don't say kaddish for my son."

i hate that each year it has to come. i hate that sometimes it feels bigger than the joy.
it just hurts.

i miss you jacob.

miss u love u especially today my beautiful grand boy .. Jacob .

Thinking of Jacob tonight knowing tomorrow is his angel day. Sending love to him and his mommy, daddy, sister and brothers.
Love, The Novaks

xo

Just a short note to thank you for all you do. I still wear Jacob's shirt each week & always think of him & you.

After Jacob died, I'd go to the cemetery pretty often. Every time I was there, so was Jack Camhi. I was never introduced to him and I'm pretty sure I only ever said two words to him. I'd just see him bringing flowers to his wife's grave, standing over it, crying, reading. He was always there that first year. Sometimes he'd leave before me. Many times I considered hanging out with him, sitting on the bench that said 'Camhi' in the middle, with 'Dorothy' engraved on one side and 'Jack' on the other. I'm not sure why, misery loves company I guess. But I never did. I stayed on the bench that says "We miss you Jacob" instead.

On the first anniversary of Jacob's death, Jordan, Adi and I went to the cemetery and Jack approached us. He didn't say anything-- he just offered us a little prayer book with a special prayer for mourning a son. I guess just as I had read the stone he spent so much time at, he had read ours. I'd have to pass Dorothy's stone on the way to Jacob's spot. It's a double-sized stone with 'Camhi' written at the top. On the left it said Dorothy, her dates, and then underneath it says eternally yours, Jack. Children. Grandchildren. I've read it a million times. On the other side is a blank spot where Jack's name would go one day. I wondered if it bothered his children to see his name on the bench alongside Dorothy's, but understood how a piece of him probably had died with his wife.

After that first year, I rarely saw Jack, but every time I went, there would be fresh flowers on Dorothy's grave. Always.

A few years ago the fresh flowers stopped showing up so frequently, and I didn't see Jack anymore. But I figured that I had also stopped showing up as frequently, my schedule changed- perhaps his did too- and we just didn't visit at the same time. But I'd always think of them as I passed Dorothy's spot on my way to Jacob's. I wondered if Jack was alone, if he had grown to old to visit, if he was just kind of waiting around to one day be with his eternal love.

I went to the cemetery this past Friday- and there it was. Jack's name written on the stone next to Dorothy's. With his dates and a message from his children and grandchildren. I started sobbing. Why? I didn't even know him. I hadn't even seen him in years-- and the only two words I had ever said to him were "thank you"-- after he had given us that little book on Jacob's first Yarzheit.

I walked over to Jacob's bench, still crying, and thought about Jack Camhi. And about how the approaching May 6th date would mark ten years since Jacob's diagnosis. And how far we have come since that day, and how much good Jacob has brought into this world in the past decade, since we first heard the words spinal muscular atrophy. And I was happy for Jack that he is with Dorothy, but jealous that I have so much longer to wait.

Perhaps he has given Jacob a book on how a parent misses, loves and celebrates a son.

Thinking of Jacob today and everyday. I love you.

Love
Aunt Jessica

Moved to tears by your photo gallery, and inspired by your fundraising achievements, which I can only hope to replicate.

As a father of 2 healthy children I feel it is my responsibility to join this fight against SMA.

Jacob,
Belated birthday wishes to you! I think of you often but especially so at this time of year. While our wish is that you would still be here to celebrate your 10th birthday, I know you must be proud of your amazing family and all they do to fight for a cure for SMA. What your Mom wouldn't give to have been working on a creative birthday party invitation or favor...as she really is the best at that sort of thing. Instead, she and your family channel their creative efforts to help other families dealing with SMA with courage and grace that is humbling. Sending you and your family all our love. Patti, Adlai, Molly and Morgan

i love and miss you everyday jacob...you are always in my heart....and soul..love grammy and aunt jodi...

Happy Belated Jacob, Thanks for your spirit to help me be there for my family. I continue to feel you during my fight. Love to you and your family.

Happy 10th Birthday Jacob! Sending you hugs and kisses and so much love! When I went to visit you today I saw all the birthday balloons, decorations, flowers, and cards and it is such a tribute to how much you are loved and missed every day. Also, it shows what an impact you have had on all our lives! We are down here visiting this week with your amazing family and wish so bad you could be here with us! I sat there today thinking how it's just not fair and not the way it should be! We love you so much Jacob! You will always live in our hearts and the beautiful memories we have of you! Hope you can feel all the love and birthday wishes that were sent to you in heaven today. We miss you always!!! Xoxo!
Love, Lisa, Lewis, Adam, Nathan & Sarah

Happy Birthday Jacob. Wishing you lots of love and missing you today and always!!
Love, Melissa, Dave, Zach, Jason & Emily

Thinking of you today on your 10th birthday! Happy birthday jacob! We love you!
xoxoxoxo

maybe if i just don't think about it, it won't be real. maybe if i push it to the back of my mind- i can spare myself some pain.

a whole decade?
how much happens in a decade? how much of a boy's life?
there are the things that we've missed that i can try to count...

like maybe 108 haircuts? 40 pairs of sneakers? eight baseball uniforms? 10 visits from the tooth fairy? 20 sleepovers? 95 gator football games?

there are things i can count with certainty, like...
eight first days of school.
10 hanukkahs.
meeting two new brothers.
3370 "good nights."
3371 "good mornings."

and things i will never know- because they simply can't be counted.
like how many mudpies, backyard quarterback passes, hours in front of video games, fights with siblings, hearing "mommy," wiped tears, hugs and kisses and i love yous.
you had more of those than i can count while you were here...
but nowhere near enough for a decade.

perhaps in addition to all the lessons i've learned, i've gotten used to pushing it to the back of my mind...
because for the past 3371 days, we have spent this decade figuring out how to celebrate you; without you.
i love you my decade-old boy.
happy birthday.

Dear Jacob,
Happy birthday!!! We miss you so much every day but especially today, on your birthday...it was so special to see all your friends with your sister and brothers together to celebrate your birthday...but it made us all miss you even more. Jacob, you will always be alive in all our hearts. We love you and miss you SO much!!! Sending you all our love on your birthday and always...Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy and Chloe xoxoxoxoxoxo

Happy birthday Jacob!!! Sending you lots of balloons, hugs and kisses!! Thinking about you and loving you today and everyday

Love aunt Jessica

Happy Birthday Jacob...today at your park I was watching your friends, brothers and sister decorate for your birthday to make it as special as they could...the entire time I was thinking this isn't the way it should be...but it does truly amaze me the love they all have for you even though you are not with us...I hope you know that your forever friends think about you all the time and are celebrating your birthday with you today...sending you a million birthday hugs and kisses...XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO Rikki,Rob,Lindsay,Emmy&Parker

hands down, best memory of 2011: seeing, touching, hugging and laughing with your mommy, daddy and others from your family!

jacob: 180 kisses and hugs...for each year we have known you and your precious family. happy birthday! even though you were taken from this earth, may your life's light continue to shine. love love love to you!

Happy birthday Jacob!!! Sending you lots of balloons, hugs and kisses!! Thinking about you and loving you today and everyday

Love aunt Jessica

Happy Birthday little man!! Sending big birthday wishes.

Love, Jolie, Murray, Olivia, Ethan & Sophie

Thinking of you today, Jacob, and of your beautiful family who misses you always. Sending you all big hugs and kisses...
With love,
Dave, Dalia,
Jake, Jaden, and Kai

happy birthday jacob

I recieved a box from you May 2010 and just wanted to say, Thank you. Gaby, has gone to heaven but she will always be with me till I see her again. God bless you.

Ana

On the 1st of November i read the story about Jacob , during that time my 6 month old bAby was very ill in hospital as she was diagnosed with SMA type 1 at the age of 3 months I was so touched with the way Jacob's mom wrote it was like she new what was going through my mind. Unfortunately on the early hours of the 2nd my baby Ndzalama passed away she lost the fight agaist SMA

Thinking about you, Jacob. XOXO

I'm thinking about you all today, praying for you, and wishing you love.

Love, Deb

xo

last night.....

sam: mommy, how did jacob die?
me: sam, you know how he died.
sam: because he was too weak?
me: yes, he had sma and his muscles were too weak.
sam: why? why were his muscles too weak?
me: because when he was born, his body was missing something important. something that allowed his brain to talk to his muscles.
sam: how come? how come he didn't have it mommy? (crying now) mommy? mommy? did you fall asleep?
me: no, sam, i didn't fall asleep (wiping my own tears). i don't know why he was born without it.

and i thought.. but kept to myself....
and i don't know why i have to answer these questions from my five year old son; who never got to meet his own brother
and i don't know why it's not fair
and i don't know why life can't be simpler
and i don't know how i miss him more and more
and i don't know how i will do this for 50 more years

i love you so much mushpot.

Thinking of you all today, and remembering sweet Jacob.
We love you,
Dave, Dalia,
Jake, Jaden, & Kai

Jacob,
We Love You and Miss You today and always...sending lots of love, hugs, balloons, pinwheels, butterflies and friendship to you and your family...LOVE YOU!!!!
Rikki,Rob,
Lindsay,Emmy & Parker

I will miss you always Jacob. Your Aunt Jodi loves you.

Jacob,
You are in our thoughts and hearts all the time. You are loved by so many and have impacted so many people's lives. Sending lots of love and hugs to you, your amazing mommy and daddy, Jordan, Max and Sam. Love you all!
Love, Melissa, Dave, Zach, Jason & Emily

TO MY OLDEST GRANDSON JACOB, I THINK OF YOU OFTEN...I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU ALWAYS.I SEE YOU IN CERTAIN MOMENTS... IN THE EYES AND SMILES OF YOUR MOMMY AND DADDY, JORDAN, MAX, AND SAM. MY ANGEL MY HEART...I LOVE YOU MORE....GRAMMY

Thinking of you today...and everyday. Even though we never met you you have touched our hearts in so many ways. Sending love to you and your family. We love you jacob!

jacob,
every year i can't believe it has been another year without you! we miss you so much! the kids and i talk about you all the time and your memory will be in our hearts forever! your family is so amazing and so inspiring to all of us! we love you! sending prayers and good wishes to you and your entire family today! xoxo!
lisa, lewis, adam, nathan & sarah

Remebering Jacob's adorable & brave face.

Your grace and courage through this journey is inspiring. Sending love to all you.
XOXO Jolie, Murray, Olivia, Ethan & Sophie

Love to Jacob on his angel day.
Love from The Novaks: Amy, Dave, Max, Paige and Parker

thinking about you jacob, even though i never met you--i will never forget you. love to you and your family.

thinking of balloons, finger puppets and the basket we sent to you today on your 9 month birthday . . . I heard it brought a smile to your face . . . and your moms amidst so many tears . . . knowing you has forever changed me . . . and so many of us who have traveled and will continue to travel this journey with you and your family . . . thinking of you always, but more and more this time of year

ooops I forgot to write love grammy

today I was feeling sad all day. I was thinking about u Jacob sooooo much. could be 10 days 10 years. I miss u terribly. during this time ever year i begin to remember how these next few weeks would be the very last with u. I love u and ur mommy, ur daddy, ur sis and ur brothers soooo much.

thinking of you today and always! we love you jacob! xoxo

i hit a single and scored.i scored my last game too.

its your bro max I love you I hope you are having a awesome time I am

The walk was amazing and inspiring. I miss u Jacob and I love ur mommy and daddy more than the whole world!

Jacob, thinking of you and loving you today and everyday....

Love you always,
Aunt Jessica

happy new year jacob! its your brother max.xoxoxo i love you have fun.

Dear Jacob,

You are missed every day, but especially today, on your birthday. We went to your park with Lindsay, Emmy, Parker, and Rikki to celebrate your birthday and sing to you. We all told you we loved and missed you. You will always be alive in our hearts.

All our love and hugs,
Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy and Chloe
xoxoxoxoxo

Happy bday to my very first nephew. Your picture sits on my desk as it has for nearly nine years so I can see your face everyday. I am reminded that life is sometimes unfair and although you were only on this earth for 9 months, you made such an impression on everyone who was lucky enough to know you. Hope you are enjoying your day

Much, much love

happy birthday jacob

Jacob, Happy 9th Birthday sweet boy...today we went with the Bamdas family to Jacobs Park and as soon as we opened the car door the wind quickly swept your birthday balloon into the sky...all your friends said "I guess Jacob really wanted his balloon!!!"...as they watched it fly across the sky...sending you lots of birthday hugs and kisses today and always...XOXOXOXO Rikki,Rob, Lindsay, Emmy and Parker

Happy Birthday Jacob

Hi jacob, i'm thinking of you especially today. i miss you!!

Thinking of you today! Happy Birthday! Love, Stacey, Howard, Alexa, Sophia & Joshua

Happy 9th Birthday Jacob!! Thinking of you today and always!! Sending you lots of love, hugs and kisses.
Love, Melissa, Dave, Zach, Jason & Emily.

it took me three years after you died to even consider doing a holiday card. that year we got a card from a sma family with a tiny butterfly sticker on it; representing their daughter. and it occured to me that perhaps-- there was a way i could do it too. i found a little star shaped hole punch, and i punch a hole on the card in the spot where your face should be. it never feels right. the photo, our names, the star shaped hole. yet, i guess not doing a card at all doesn't feel right either.

the thing i realized this year is that the star never changes. not its shape, or size. not it's hair style, or toothless grin, or dimple. not its smile or sparkling eyes. not the stories i get to tell or how many memories i have, or how many more i can make. not the ache of missing you or how much i love you. i wish i could see you change with your siblings' smiling faces each year.

today, on what would have been your 9th birthday, i can't help but thinking that birthdays are about counting candles and years and milestones. about changing, growing and wishing.

will you have changed at all when we get to celebrate your birthday together? will you be 9 months? 9 years? will the pain of all the years we've missed be erased? i wish i could see you blow out 9 candles... i wish i was planning a 9th birthday celebration for you, instead of just remembering the one birthday we got to share. i wish i believed in wishes. i wish my biggest wish of all was able to come true. happy birthday to my nine year old boy. i love you mushers.

Happy birthday precious boy! You are so loved and so missed!! Your brothers and sister met Molly the other day, wishing so bad you were here to meet her too!! I love you Jacob! Hope you are eating lots of cake and ice cream and poppop gene is telling you to pile it on high!!

Love you

Aunt Jessica

Happy Birthday Jacob! I miss you so much and wish that you were here with us. I wish that jacob's park was never built and I wish that you were okay. I say Max and Sam are annoying, but I would do anything to have three healthy brothers. Happy Birthday. You are my favorite 9 year old boy.
Your big sister,
Jordan

Sending you lots of love, hugs, and kisses!
Dave, Dalia,
Jake, Jaden, & Kai

Wishing you, beautiful Jacob Isaac, a happy birthday in heaven today! We love you and miss you so much every day! Sending you lots of big hugs and kisses sweet Jacob!
Love to you always, Lisa, Lewis, Adam, Nathan, and Sarah

An early note to your parents, sister and brothers to say God bless the day you were born. Big hugs and warm thoughts all day tomorrow and every day for those who miss you with all their being.
Love always, Eric, Karen, Emile, Cece and Carl in spirit

if the stars in heaven are the flowers of angels, then sew a few seeds for us, jacob. one day we'll celebrate all the missed birthdays together (you, sawyer, the whole lot of them) as you show us around your garden of stars.

love love love to you all!

hi it is max i love u i hope your having fun with mommom and poppop gene and poppop red in heaven

i come to this site to look at pictures, read the messages and remember moments and times from the beginning of your diagnosis through today

even though your story has impacted the lives of so many, I know that it does not lessen the pain ...

jacob you are loved and missed today and every day

thinking about you jacob and how much i love you, and miss you....still

Sending you all so much love today and always. I always think of this day as being the day your SMA journey was coming to an end, and unbeknownst to us, ours was just beginning. Thank you for standing by us for all of these years and offering so much to so many families. We are always proud of the things you accomplish in the name of Jacob. It has been our pleasure to "know" Jacob through the stories and pictures you continue to share.

Much love to you, Rappoports.

~The Potters

Jacob-loving you today and always. words can not express the sadness of not having you here. i miss you and think about you everyday. wishing you were here everyday.
i love you always
aunt jessica

Dear Jacob...I'm sitting here reading all the beautiful messages to you and your family and it is truly amazing how many people you have touched so deeply. I remember like it was yesterday...holding you at the children's museum telling mommy that its probably just low tone and you might need some physical therapy..I wish every day that was true!!! The truth is that you are alive in so many hearts and your family has made that happen in sooo many ways...sending you and your family a million hugs and support today and always..We Love You and Miss You!!! XOXOXOXOXO Rikki,Rob, Lindsay, Emmy and Parker

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan, Max and Sam,

We love you and we are here for you. We miss Jacob and he will always be alive in our hearts...

All our love,
Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy and Chloe
XOXXOOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOO

Even though I only visited with Jacob once in his short life, Jacob has left a mark on my life as he has done with so many others! Shaina, Adi, Jordan, Max and Sam - if I could only blink my eyes and wiggle my nose and take away all your pain, I would. You are an amazing family and I'm so very proud to be your friend.

We want to let you know that your adorable face is so fresh in our memory. Your love continues through your amazing parents as well as Jordan,Max & Sam

Sending our love to you all. We want you to know that we wish you peace in your hearts.
XOXO
Jolie, Murray, Olivia, Ethan & Sophie

Jacob,
Missing you always and thinking of you today! You are no longer here with us, however, as each year goes by I am more and more amazed by the impact you make on so many lives. Your family is truly amazing and I know you are watching over them and smiling down on them! We love you more than words can express! We hope that although we can never take the pain of missing you away, our strong friendship will continue to help your family through these hard days! XOXOXOX ... Big, Big, Big hugs and kisses to all of you today!!!
Love,
Lisa, Lewis, Adam, Nathan, and Sarah

We miss you everyday. We try to hold every smile and every touch close by. We love you always.

We wish your beautiful family didn't have to experience the pain of missing you... We will always remember you, Jacob, and we will always try to help your family keep your amazing spirit alive...
Remembering you with love,
Dave, Dalia, Jake, Jaden, & Kai

eight years ago, on the weekend before you died, adi made you a "balloon garden." he took a bunch of helium ballons and arranged them over your head. you could tug on the strings and watch them bob up & down. last weekend, i couldn't help but think of that balloon garden when i tied balloons to the railings at "jacob's park," - a space-themed, accessible playground built in your memory at the ross jcc in boynton. we celebrated your life, and the completed playground is a dream come true.

and yes, adi and i have many dreams, both big and small, that have come true. but yet, this week it is hard not to focus on the dream that can never come true.

i dont want a playground or a park or a grave marker.
i don't want a beautiful holiday card with a star shaped hole punched out.
i don't want a foundation or my very own cause.
i want my son.

i want birthdays and homework and sports.
i want electronics and punishments and bedtime arguments.

i don't want to be a "more compassionate," "understanding," or "strong" person.
i just want to be a regular mom, concerned with mundane, inconsequential stuff.

i want to know if your cheeks would still get round at the tops like apples when you smile, if the second toe on your left foot would still lean over just a little bit to the left... what it would feel like to hug you so tight that i'd annoy you, kiss you goodnight, or hear your voice.

i don't want to have to pause my life for my grief, over and over- when it hurts too much. i don't ever want to stop missing you, or stop remembering you. eight years could be eight minutes or eight months.... it feels the same. i wish the love we get from so many people who support us could erase our pain. i wish it was different. i just miss you so much.

Dearest shaina and adi, i am thinking of you and jacob today as i do everyday. I remember getting the call that jacob had died and i was overwhelmed with sadness. Not only for the loss of jacob, but for the pain that you, my sister, my best friend, and adi your best friend had and still have to go through. I love you guys with all my heart and miss jacob beyond measure. wish i could magically take the pain away. i love you guys.

eight years ago last night i purchased a ticket to a part of the world i had never been to before to see a little boy i had never met.

eight years ago this morning i boarded a plane, not know that as i flew you were already getting your own wings.

jacob, though i never held you in my arms, you hold my gaze in your eyes. i see your eyes not only in your precious pictures, but in that of your sister and brothers and even sometimes in the light of my own girls.

i miss you still because we never met, but more so because of those of us that were left behind. i will never forget the day i met your sweet mommy and loving father, the wonderous impression your grandparents and extended family left in my heart...all just pieces of you. they all helped me hold the pieces of me together that day eight years ago.

love love love to you, jacob, and blessings on each of your family. i love you and them so much!

Shaina and adi,
I am so sorry that you have to go through this pain, not only today, but everyday. You are such amazing parents with everything that you do to honor Jacob's memory. Although I never had the honor to have met you Jacob, I love and miss you very much.
Thinking of you Shaina, Adi, Jordan, Max and Sam.

With love....Ashley, Dave, Ethan and Hailey

Thinking of Jacob today and always

I love you jacob and think about you always!

i just saw the evening news segment on the new playground that was donated to the JCC in honor of Jacob this weekend...what an incredible way keep his memory in the hearts of everyone! it put such a smile on my face to see how amazing it turned out! i am sure he is so very proud of all of you and looking down upon the playground with a smile from ear to ear!

jacob, i want to tell you a poem: i love jacob with all my might, i wish he would be here and not up there in the sky. i said this poem at the park today. i cried about you the whole time. the only person that knew was my friend jaden. he is the closest friend i have. i met him when i was one month old. i love you jacob. i know you will always be here for me. xoxo savta told me that i know why you are crying. she said i love you and i was very sad too.

tonight at dinner we looked at the picture your mommy texted me of jacob's park. we talked about you and how much we miss you all the time. adam & nathan said they want to come play at the park when we are in florida in december. we are so proud to be part of such an amazing playground and so sad to miss the grand opening this weekend! looking forward to playing there in a few months. love and kisses to you jacob ... and to your family who always continue to inspire us all! XOXOXO! love you guys!

a million miracles...

tonight i got to see a million miracles. and i'm not even sure which is the best one of all.

max played in his first baseball game ever and got the game ball. i can't believe i can write that sentence and it's true.

and you know what? i could have started this journal entry with "tonight i got to see my son wear a baseball uniform with "rappoport" on the back- and it would be no less amazing. or- my son got a base hit his first time at bat, or i got to see the look on his face when he slid into home plate and scored a run. or even that i'm looking forward to trying to get orange clay stains out of a white uniform. all miracles.

i have dreamt of seeing my son's name on the back of a baseball uniform since i first heard the words "it's a boy." that was nearly 9 years ago-- which is a pretty long time to wait for something that i had always taken for granted.

tonight was every bit as good as i have always dreamed it would be. yet, it tugged at adi and me- as our grief always does...

i miss you so much jacob. i miss everything that we have missed out on with you; and i hate that i have learned what constitutes a miracle, through your pain.

i love you max. and i think having a 6 and a half year old miracle is one of the greatest feelings in the world.

go wildcats!!!!!

Yesterday Was a surreal day for me.. Like so many days have been ... Your mommy and daddy are creating a park in your honor and memory. I wish u were here to play in it...

I'm sorry for your loss of such a beautiful baby. Your turning that tragedy into a blessing for so many others who might otherwise suffer without your contributions is amazing in its grace and inspiration.

I MISS YOU SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO MUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I wish you were going on the cruise with us in a couple of weeks and spending time with us in Washington, D.C.! Jacob- I think about you every second and minute of the day.

we were all there jacob, loving you and missing you.

Thank you for allowing me and my family to be a part of something that is so special. Today was amazing..as usual. What a great celebration of Jacobs life. Hoping for a cure one day soon. Love you guys!!!

Shaina and Adi,
We're sending good thoughts your way for a fun and successful fundraiser this weekend. Thank you for all that you do. We love you! Karen, Eric, Cece, Emile, and Carl (in spirit)

Jacob,
I miss you as always and have been raising money for your foundation every week at work for the past month with my annual Novis Pharma bake sale. Last Friday one of my coworkers walked by my desk and looked at the homemade brownies and chocolate chip cookies and handed me a $10 bill. I asked him what he wanted. He told me nothing, just giving a donation.
He then sent me an email about 15 minutes later that I wanted to share with you as I found it to be so beautiful and so moving...espcially since it was written by someone that never met you.

My coworker Bill wrote me the following:

I was just thinking about the question that you asked, "do you want anything?" - I would like to change my answer. My new answer is Yes, I would like a cure please! I pray that some day soon a cure will be found so that no other family has to endure what your family has gone through with this disease. I can only imagine how difficult & painful such a tragedy could be, to lose a child in such a manner. It is very impressive to see that your family has turned a tragedy into a positive mission. I am sure that all the hard work will pay off & a cure will be found. And when that day comes, your family will know that Jacob gave his life to save the lives of countless other children. Thank You for never giving up the fight.

I admire your strength and courage to help you get through each day. Your website is so touching and I feel like I knew Jacob.

I love you xoxo and I wish you never died. I miss you and I'm very very very sad that you died. I would watch football with you every gators game.

I think of Jacob often and still wear his Tshirt, the one I had on at the FSMA Conference in Cincinnati, OH last year.

Jacob,
Morgan was helping her Dad empty a helium tank today and she wanted to send a balloon to you. She told me that she wrote a special note on there for you so we hope you look for your "airmail". I know Morgan would have loved getting to know you as much as we love the rest of your family. You are always in our thoughts and your family especially this week as you are missed beyond measure.

Jacob,
Morgan was helping her Dad empty a helium tank today and she wanted to send a balloon to you. She told me that she wrote a special note on there for you so we hope you look for your "airmail". I know Morgan would have loved getting to know you as much as we love the rest of your family. You are always in our thoughts and your family especially this week as you are missed beyond measure.

Love has no boundaries nor does it have a location or time restrictions. Your b-day was yesterday. We miss you always and everywhere.

Jacob,

Happy Birthday... We love and miss you so much. Your memory will live on forever.

Happy Birthday Jacob! Your wonderful family has kept your memory alive which makes us feel close to you even though we never met you. Sending you and your family lots of love, hugs and kisses on your birthday!
Ashley, Dave and Ethan

Dear Jacob,

Happy Birthday!!!!! We miss you each and every day. You are always in our hearts. We love you so much.

Sending you hugs and kissess...
Love always,
Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy and Chloe

Happy birthday Jacob...sending you lots of love and kisses...thinking about you and your family...i hope you know how special you are to so many...

happy birthday jacob...missing you so much... would give anything- everything- to have been able to light eight candles for you today. i hate how my heart hurts and it just doesn't stop. i love you birthday boy.

Happy Birthday Jacob...we LOVE YOU and MISS YOU soooo much...sending you and your family lots of hugs and kisses today and everyday!!! XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO Rikki,Rob,Lindsay,Emmy&Parker

Wishing you a very happy birthday, Jacob. We're thinking of you, and sending you and your family lots of love.
XOXO,
Dave, Dalia, Jake, & Jaden

Sending you lots of love today to you and your family.
Happy Birthday and sweet wishes : )
All our love,
Jolie, Murray, Olivia, Ethan & Sophie

Today we looked at photos of the day you were born. I miss you Jacob. I will always love you.

Sending happy birthday wishes to you jacob. You are forever in our hearts and always in our thoughts!
Love, Melissa, Dave, Zachary, Jason & Emily

today was one of the happiest days of my life. my beautiful new grandson jacob was born. i waited all day so i could hold him. i miss jacob and love him.

Happy birthday Jacob!! You are forever in my thoughts and loved and missed very much!! I love you.
xoxoxox
Aunt Jessica

happy birthday, jacob. thinking about you and your family today. Xoxo, jess, josh, justin & ethan

happy birthday beautiful jacob! wishing you could be here with us and remembering the joyous day you were born! thinking about you all the time! praying for comfort for your family on this difficult day!we love you and your family more than words could ever express! sending birthday balloons, hugs, kisses,and smiles up to you today! xoxo!
love you always,
lisa, lewis, adam, nathan & sarah

wishing you a very happy birthday jacob. you are loved and missed beyond measure.

sorry, love...eight.
having birthdays so close to new year's and on new year's eve
always throws me off!

love you!!!

jacob,

nine years ago at chanukah, your mommy and daddy were anxiously awaiting your arrival, their first son. jordan had never been a big sister. stars had never seemed so magical.

but your life changed all that.

i know how deeply and tearfully they miss you, and forgive them if they don't concentrate on how you left this world...it just hurts too much. you are alive, it is certain, in their hearts and in every action they take for your sake and others, too.

i know this because, well...because. let's just leave it at that. and when we let go our 8 birthday balloons this year, look for another special message from me, sawyer's mom.

jacob, you may be the greatest person i never met.

with greatest affection,
amy, jason, mimi, devon and
sawyer smith

Dear Jacob,
We're sending you and your family wishes for a Hanukkah filled with enduring love and warmth. I know that holidays are especially difficult because your family misses you so much and wants you there with them, and it will forever always be incomplete without you. Special hugs and kisses to all of you, and to your parents we send our love always.

Very touched to be creating a memory for your son Jaoob. I will take in all the information and love from this website in creating a memorial for your son Jacob in the new Jacob's Park.

Jacob- You are the best and I will never ever forget about you. I love you very much.

Your big sister,
Jordan Sky

Hello Rappoport's...
I just wanted you to know that Mindee and I think of you all often. We just passed the awful anniversary that Katie has been gone longer than she was here. We are planning our own event to celebrate Katie Mae's birthday, November 15. Mindee has started www.kNOwSMA.com as a vehicle to spread awareness of this hideous disease... We are planning on coming to the RWR in March... Mindee will be ready for some sun by then... it probably wont be our first trip to florida this winter... but we do want to visit with you in the next 4-5 months.. check out her site... www.knowsma.com

We were just talking about your beautiful webpage. Decided to take a look, only to learn that Jacob's angel day just passed. Maybe that is why you have been on my mind. As Laurie said, October is heavy month. Alexandra's birthday is this month too. So, the emotional roller-coaster begins. However, will try to remember both of your words, Shaina and Laurie, we are here, still missing our children and taking one day at a time. Blessing to you and Jacob and each of us during this upcoming season. Will speak with you soon and so glad this year's walk-n-roll was so successful and such a wonderful honor for Jacob. Warmest,
Andrea Nelson Meigs<

Jacob,

You are missed each and every day and I love you so much. Your parents and siblings are an inspiration to us all.

Lots of love and many thoughts being sent your way today. Shaina, your entries are always beautiful. I can't tell you how often I have finished reading what you have written and thought to myself "yeah. that's it exactly."

I am always pleasantly surprised with the number of people who not only remember Jacob on days like this, but are sure to tell you that they are thinking of him. Sometimes I feel like my family has all but forgotten Marshall and that saddens me. But I can always feel relieved by coming here to see the heavy numbers of people who are sure to tell you all the time how much they miss Jacob and how important he was in their lives. That is so important and I am so glad that year after year you have these to read.

I frequently feel that 10/1, Jacob's day, is more intense for me than a lot of the other sma angel days. I suppose it is because it begins the time in my life when we first learned what SMA was too. There just aren't a lot of happy memories for me in October. I thank you for always lighting the way for my family through our forever-journey of SMA and grief. I know 7 years ago we would speak of how on earth we would make it without them. And just look - here we are, 7 years later. We are making it. How? I don't know. With eachother and a whole lot of love and support from many people, I suppose!

Jacob, you are never far from our thoughts. Thank you for the gift of "you".
~LP

Such a small child
with such a huge heart
Such a young soul
with such a strong spirit...

Jacob,
I think of you in little ways all the time. I bring you up on conversations with friends and coworkers. I share your story every chance I get. Every shining star and every bright rainbow makes me think of you and your smile. I watch Jordan sing and play the guitar and wonder if you would have been the artsy type too. I see Max and Sam watching the gators play and running around and I wonder if you would have been athletic too.

I don't know why you had to have SMA. I don't know why it had to be type one. I don't know why you were taken from us so soon. But in your short time on earth you accomplished the two things that I think are most the important in life. You loved and you inspired.

Jacob, you will never be forgotten. Your story lives on in the hopes of one day finding a cure for SMA and your spirit lives on in everyone that was blessed to have met you. Uncle Joe and I love you so very much! You are our hero and you are forever an angel.

Love Always,
Aunt Susie

we love you jacob and miss you with all our hearts. love grammy and aunt jodi.

Dear Jacob, Thinking of you and your family today. Sweet memories of you are always in our hearts.

With lots of love,

Jolie, Murray, Olivia, Ethan & Sophie

Thinking of your beautiful family today and always, and remembering your little angel.
Love always,
Dave, Dalia, Jake,& Jaden

Jacob,
We are thinking about you today and always. You will be forever in our hearts and in our minds.
Love,
Jess, Josh, Justin & Ethan

Dear Jacob,
We think about you every single day, and are missing you with all our hearts. You will never be forgotton. We are sending you all our love. We will always be here for your family.

We love you!!!!!
Love always,
Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy and Chloe xoxoxoxooxox

Jacob - you are in our thoughts today and always. We wish we had the chance to get to know you. We love you and miss you.
Love, Melissa, Dave, Zachary, Jason & Emily

Jacob..today and every day we miss you and love you..we remember so many things about you..especially those gorgeous big brown eyes and beautiful smile...sending you and your family lots of hugs and kisses today and always...XOXOXO Rikki,Rob,Lindsay,Emmy&Parker

Jacob- You will always be in my heart. I miss you and think about you every day. i love you very much and will never forget about you. I am glad you came into my life.

wonder [wuhn-der]
--verb
1. to think or speculate curiously
2. to be filled with admiration, amazement, or awe; marvel

i wonder how have i lived 7 years without you here. i wonder why is this our reality. strange that no matter how many years pass, i still can't believe it. i wonder how you'd look now. a little like max and a little like sam? each time max puts on his soccer uniform, i wonder how you might have looked in one. i wonder how it would be to dress another little boy for picture day, and see you in a school uniform. each time sam runs down the hallway like a lightning bolt, i wonder how it's possible to create a person whose muscles work together so effortlessly and yet yours were so weak that you were unable to swallow. each time jordan sings a song or writes a story, i wonder what stories you may have had to tell. the more our living children do, the more our family changes and grows, the more we are left to wonder what might have been.

wonder [wuhn-der]
--noun
3. a miraculous or apparently miraculous thing or act; miracle

i know that your memory is a wonder in the miraculous sense. i guess that is what makes it so hard.
i can still hear the oxygen machine, and your quiet laugh. i can remember exactly how it feels to touch your soft hair, or hold you in my lap. i can feel the vibrations on our king-size mattress that you made with each labored breath. i can see adi making you a balloon garden, jordan reaching down to kiss you or pose for yet another picture. all as if it were yesterday. and yet, your wondrous memory is never enough. the emptiness is just too big.

for the wonder that you were and the many wonders you have brought into our lives; it simply hurts so much to be left wondering about what could have been.

i miss you mushers. more than i ever knew possible. i wonder if you are waiting for me; and how many years it will be until we meet again.

thinking of you always, especially tomorrow, on your angel day sweet jacob! i told your story to a new friend here in maryland today and we are always reminded of how precious life is. nathan heard me and we talked about you and how we will always remember you jacob ... beautiful boy! as the years pass the hurting never goes away and we miss you more than ever. your mommy & daddy, big sister jordan, and little brothers max & sam are so strong. we know you are always with them in spirit and watching over them. we love you all so much! we are sending hugs and kisses to you and your family tomorrow and always! XOXO!
love, the birnbaums

time does not erase yet magnifies.. all we had while we could touch and feel baby jacob and all we have lost. I love all of you so much.

My Dears,
The memories of sweet Jacob grow stronger as time passes by. I hug all of you from afar and am with you evey minutes.I love you so much!
Ema

Thinking of Jacob today as his Angel Day approaches. We miss you Jacob and your family now that we have moved away. We are sending all of our love.

Jacob- I miss you, love you, and thinking about you every day. I wish you could be here with us. Love, Jordan

i love your web sight very infomative(i had no idea)

Shaina,
As I dropped the girls off today for the first day of school, we saw a rainbow...that will forever in my mind remind me of Jacob. Just know that I am thinking of you and while Jacob isn't able to be here in person, he very much is in spirit. I know he was looking down on Jordan and Max and wishing them well on their first day of school.
Love to you all!
Patti, Adlai, Molly and Morgan

I send my condolences to the family of Jacob and wanted you guys to know that Jacob is in a better and beautiful place SMA Free. I hope the best for you and your family and live every day to the fullest. I have SMA type 3 and every time I check with this disorder it brings tears to my eyes for myself and to those who are suffering. There will be a cure, we just need to fight harder. If you would like to contact me via email Chanteharriotte@yahoo.com

I love you. i miss you a lot. I'll never forget about you. Love, Max sawyer

hello shaina and adi, it has been so long since we have spoken but i have never forgotten either of you. it hurts me so much to hear about your son, as you know i have just gone through a similar nightmare. i find it comforting to hear about your story, i do not have anyone to talk to who understands how i feel. im really reaching out to you guys, if you could please call me (305-257-3247) i would really appreciate it. is there a number i can reach you at?

my heart fully goes out to you both and its inspiring to see how strong you are. thank you.

hope you are doing well, please keep in touch

love,
nina

one day.
one minute.
one sentence.

im sorry, your son has spinal muscular atrophy.

was may 6th, 2002 the worst day? or was it the day you died? or the day we buried you? i have rewound the events of diagnosis day a thousand times in my mind- and i still can't believe it.

as the doctor told us what little he knew about SMA, in my heart i knew he was right, and i believed him when he told us you would die. And even though his predictions proved to be correct, and i have lived 2,555 days since that moment- still, i can't believe it.

the way i remember some parts- it might as well have been 7 minutes ago... not 7 years. your huge eyes. your clenched stinky fists. my dad's & adi's tears... mom's cracking voice when i called her at school. reading to you that night while mom took pictures. wondering what jordan saw and heard. numb.

i hate having to sift through the pain. having to carry it. to own it. i hate how adi & i grew up in that one moment. sma stole an innocence that can never be recaptured.

everything changed that day. the way i saw the world, the things i felt, how i measured joy and pain, the way i had planned to live my life.

yet, somehow, we are surviving, living this "unplanned" life.

i wish more than anything that i never knew how powerful one sentence could be.

we will never stop missing you and loving you.
not for one day.
not for one minute.

missing you jacob... thinking about this day 7 years ago when we had you in dr. kaweblums office & our nightmare began. missed you at passover... wishing we could have heard you singing the 4 questions alongside jordan this year, and given your siblings & cousin a run for their money searching for the afikomen... wishing all the money we raise at our walk could bring you back and erase your sma... wishing i could celebrate mothers day with all my children... i love you so much mushpot

Shaina & Adi
What a beautiful day!!!! We had a great time at the walk and congratulate you for another successful event!!!
At the walk today you told everybody many times today how amazing we all are. Well ... we want to make sure you are told that we all help fight for a cure for SMA all because of you!!! You are truly an amazing family and an inspiration to all!!! we are so honored to have you as our friends. We are blessed that both of you as well as Jordan, Jacob, Max, and Sam are a part of our lives!!! We loved sharing today with you and can't wait to see you again soon!!! Jacob was surely smiling upon us all today. We love you so much!!!
Love, Lisa, Lewis, Adam, Nathan & Sarah

What a beautiful day! Jacob you are so loved and missed! Thank you for making the weather PERFECT today! What an amazing Walk!! I love you forever!!! Your parents truely are incredible people!
love you and miss you everyday!

Aunt Jessica

shaina and adi how beautiful a day. sending so much love. mom

My Thoughts & Prayers will be with all of you, so Sad to have experince such tragedy, I too have a life time of grief, and even though it was not SMA related, As I look to The Sky I can See Your shOOtinG Star Jacob, With My PreCious Angel Together as they wait for us to live with Them forever in all Eternity!!

I am so sorry - I lost my baby at 14 months (flu) and I bet there is a special place for babies in heaven.

Sarah & Robbie (my surviving son) and our angel, James

Shaina and Adi, I wish you the best of everything, including the weather, on Sunday.

Dear Jacob, I wish you were here with me. When i write songs and poems about you, It makes me think about how much I needed you, and still need you. I'm glad you came into my life. I miss you and think about you every day,
Your big sis jordan

Jacob, We wish your parents good luck at the Run this year!
Steve, Gina Marie, Joshua, & Ethan

We saw a spectacular shooting star last night. We were driving down the darkest road, tired from a Superbowl Party. There it was, visable through the front window of my car. It lit up the night sky for a brief, but amazing, moment and looked like it came straight down to Earth. I thought of Jacob. Maybe he's a Steelers fan!

Jacob,
Can't stop thinking of you today. I am planning on talking about you tomorrow in my TRIBE board meeting at the temple and I popped onto your web site to look at your face. Everyone misses you so much...that will never change! Your mommy made the cutest birthday invite for your little brother Max and I wish more than anything that you would be there...running and playing with all the other kids. Your 3 siblings are all growing up so much and that makes me think of you even more. I wish so much that I could watch you grow, laugh, play and be a kid! Our time with you was too short but it was also so precious, memorable and meaningful. I will keep telling everyone your story and I know in my heart that one day SMA will no longer exist. Your family and friends will not stop fighting and fundraising until that day comes.

Love you Always,
Aunt Susie

thinking of you today jacob. happy birthday
amy, dave, max, paige and parker

sending our love to you and your family for jacob's 7th birthday.

happy birthday! xo

love you guys. sending you all a big hug for jacob's 7th birthday.

happy birthday jacob. sending you all the love in our hearts.

grammy and aunt jodi miss you and love you with all our hearts. we wish we could celebrate your birthday with you here. xoxox

happy birthday jacob!!! sending you love, hugs, and kisses sweet boy!!! We love you and think about you every day but especially today on your birthday. Words cannot express how much we care about you and your beautiful family!!! XOXOXO
Love Always,
Lisa, Lewis, Adam, Nathan & Sarah

sweet jacob, saba and savta miss you on your b-day and always!

i think of you always, darling baby, jacob,but especially today on your birthday. know that you are always in my heart. give pop pop gene a kiss for me

Sending all of our love and hugs to you and your family, Jacob, on your birthday.

Happy Birthday sweet boy! Sending you and your family lots of hugs and sweet thoughts today and always.
XOXOXO
Jolie,Murray,Olivia,Ethan & Sophie

Wishing you a very happy birthday jacob. I love you so much, i miss you so much. I wish more than anything you were still here. I love you jacob, and wish I didnt have to wish you a happy birthday on your website, I think about you always,

Love you forever

Aunt Jessica

Happy Birthday Jacob!!! You are in our hearts every day. We miss you so much. Sending you lots of love and hugs today and always!
We love you,
Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy & Chloe xo

Happy Birthday, Jacob! Sending hugs, kisses, and our love to you and your beautiful family today and always.
Lots of love,
Dave, Dalia, Jake, & Jaden

Jacob.....Sending you lots of birthday love,hugs, balloons and friendship...we think about you every day...We Love You and Miss You...XOXOXO Rikki,Rob,
Lindsay,Emmy and Parker

Happy Birthday Jacob!!! We are thinking about you today and always. You have a very special family.
All our love,
Melissa, Dave, Zachary, Jason & Emily

wishing we were having some wild seven year olds sleep over for your birthday tonight... wishing i could tell you about the day you were born & how i fell in love with you in that very first moment... wishing you could light your menorah... wishing i could buy you hanukkah presents... wishing i knew how it feels to have a seven year old son... wishing i had never heard of sma... wishing i could trade the grief in my heart for you in my arms... wishing i didn't have to punch holes in holiday cards... wishing my wishes could come true...

happy birthday beautiful boy... i love you so much

sending you big birthday hugs and kisses, you have touched so many lives and have made such a difference for so many . . . i feel blessed to have known you and your family and on a day like today just wanted to tell you . . . happy birthday jacob xoxo

Happy hanukkah jacob i love you. I thought about you as i set up the menorahs on the table this morning. Adam and Nathan are visiting for hanukkah and I wish you were here to celabrate with us. tonight we are going to hgave the first night with cuz jasyn and i wish you were here with us. i love you, think about you, and miss you every day. I love you, big sister jordan

miss you mushers.... as always... hope you took good care of pop pop tonight & that he taught you how to share the neck. i wish i could tell you how thankful i am for you & everything i am because of you. happy thanksgiving jacob.

"i love you! when i be in heavon i will see you. in the morning when i wake up, i see you. my angel!"

***joseph wanted to see his angel, jacob!

Happy halloween jacob! do they have halloween in heaven? This year you probolay would trick or treat with all the buddies in the neighboorhood. I love you Jacob, and.......... I miss you

Shaina,

I was reading over Jacob's site and all of the beautiful messages written by your friends and loved ones. But mostly, I read and re-read your message to Jacob on October 1st. Your words filled me with such sadness for you that I wanted to reach out and hug you and take it all away. Your gift for writing and describing what you've gone through touches me to the core and I feel everything just as you describe. I fast forward to the future when Chloe might not be here anymore, and I could literally have written those words. WHY WHY WHY WHY WHY?? And then you answered that question- it is your path and Jacob's short life was his path. Because of what you have made of it. And what Chloe and this awful SMA has taught me is that we are here for such a fleeting amount of time, and we will understand everything one day. And there will be no more pain. And the physical break between us and our precious babies will be no longer. Thank you, Shaina and Adi, for your gifts of love and strength that you so willingly give out to others. You have helped me immensely.

Jacob-
I wish you were here celabrating my birthday with me. You would eat a slice of savta's yummy chocolate birthday cake. You would help me open all my presents with me, Max, Sam, and Our cuz, Jasyn. maybe you would've been here so we could throw water ballons at you. Again, I wish you were here and i miss you and think about you everyday. Love, Big sister Jordan

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family. Your message touched me greatly. May this upcoming year help heal some of your grief and bring more joys and happiness to your life and family. Thinking of Jacob during the holidays.

shaina and adi, we send you all the love in our hearts, today and everyday. Still, 6 years later the thought of what you go through daily saddens me to the core. I will eternally be greatful for the lessons jacob teaches me. I know i am a better mom, daughter, sister, and friend for having known jacob. We love you so much!

Jacob,

I love you and miss you so much. It gives me comfort to know that you are with Pop Pop having the best time with him - Eating ice cream piled a mile high and laughing with him all day long. I know you know already know this... but your mommy and daddy are amazing, strong, incredible people. I love you so much.

Love,

Uncle Joe

our thoughts are with you all today. xoxo

Thinking of you today, Jacob, and your beautiful family. Sending you our love and peaceful prayers.

Love,

Dalia, Dave, Jake and Jaden

six years later. hard to believe.

part of me feels as though my heart has been ripped out of my chest, and no matter how much time passes, or how many blessings come into my life- it is irreparable. after seventy-two months without hearing, seeing, or touching our son, i have come to recognize this all-too-familiar feeling as grief.

the pain seems relentless as i rethink my son's last days, hours, moments, breaths. i think about how much sma has stolen from us. it stole so much from jacob physically, and it stole our son far too soon. the grief can immobilize me, anger me, hurt me so much.
to see my best friend's face- knowing that he lost his son, too.
to hear my living children ask me questions about death- not from movies or books, but about their own young brother.

and after three hundred twelve weeks, i still find myself asking- how is this our path?

but, it is our path.

on my list of preparations for rosh hashana, was a visit to the cemetery, or "jacob's park." while i was there, i was reminded of shel silverstein's story, the giving tree.
i was thinking about how the tree gives and gives to the little boy. and even when it seems impossible that the tree can give anymore, still, she continues to give.

and i think of my angel. the one who gave me so much, and who yes- even two thousand one hundred ninety days after his death, gives me gifts and teaches me lessons about how i want to live my life.
and i think about the people who continue to visit jacob's website, send us a card or a phone call on days like today. the people whose gifts of love and support show us how very much jacob's life still matters to so many.

and because of the financial gifts of our supporters, through jacob's foundation, we have been able to give to so many other families, who have found themselves walking the same path we walked before them.

so when the pain of my grief overtakes me, i try to think of the gifts from my very own giving tree. and i know that it is the gifts we can not see or touch, that are the best gifts of all.

so when i sit under the tree at "jacob's park" and i feel a soft breeze or the warmth of the sun, i feel him nearby. and when it is hard to imagine how we can continue on without our son, i can only hope that his gifts will guide me through the next six years... or sixteen... or sixty.

we miss you so much jacob.

until we meet again-

mommy

Dear Jacob, No one can ever take your place. I think of you often, especially when I am with your brothers and sister, and of course on a day like today.You are a hero in my eyes because of what you represent, what you went through, and what you continue to give. Give Pop Pop hugs for me. I love you and miss you so much and I couldn't miss you any more..or any less.

dear jacob there are never enough words or ones powerful enough to express how much i love you and miss you. oct 1 will always be the saddest day of my life. the precious gift of your short life touches me profoundly, each and everyday. i love you so.

Sweet Jabob, you are sooo missed!
Love you, Savta

I always loved when Jacob watched me play when i was two. Today i realized how important it was to be one of his favorite people. I am always thinking of you and how i can help find a cure for SMA. I miss jacob.


Jordan-

Dear Rappoport Family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Thinking of you and your family today. Hoping you know what a difference you have made in so many lives. Sending you big kisses and hugs (give one to your Pop-Pop) and send some to the rest of the family because we are thinking of everyone today.

Darling Jacob, if I can't have Pop Pop down here with me, I am happpy knowing he is up there with you playing and making you giggle. Miss you, still, darling baby. I love you, Granny

Thinking of you all.

Thinking of you all today and always. All our love-Lauren, Mark, Noah, Justin and Ally

You are never forgotten jacob. Today more then ever you are on my mind. There truely are no words to express the pain and emotions that go along with today. I know you are up in heaven, I know you are with both our pop pops, and all your friends whos lives were taken WAY to early. I miss you Jacob. I cant believe how long it has been since I have touched, kissed and hugged you.It just isnt fair. I love you Jacob, you are always on my mind.

Love you always and forever,
Aunt Jessica

Dear Jacob & Family,
I so vividly remember your adorable face. Your dark hair and big smiling brown eyes are never far from my thoughts. Olivia often recalls and cherishs how she helped you hold your toys. How proud you were to be hanging out with the 'big' kids.
Our wishes for you today and always is peace in your hearts. Always remember that Jacob is in our thoughts and memory.
With love, Jolie, Murray, Olivia, Ethan & Sophie.

Thinking about you Jacob and your beautiful family. Love and kisses to you, your parents, your sister and brothers today and always.

Dear Rappoport Family,

Sending our love and thoughts to all of you on this day and thinking of Jacob, wishing he were here. While today must be a difficult one, I hope you can find comfort in knowing how many other families you have helped and continue to hope that we will see a cure for SMA one day. Your beautiful family is an inspiration to so many!

Love always,
Patti, Adlai, Molly and Morgan

Dear Jacob, We are thinking about you today and missing you sooo much! We love you and you will always be in our hearts! All our love, Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy and Chloe xxxxoooo

Thinking of you today and always Jacob. We love you and miss you so much! You will always be a special part of our family. Adam has been asking about you a lot lately and we talk about how you were his very first best friend! Sending hugs and kisses to heaven for you today. XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO ... Give some to Pop Pop too!
Love Always, Lisa, Lewis, Adam, Nathan & Sarah

Jacob,
You are in our thoughts today and in our hearts always.
Love, Melissa, Dave, Zachary, Jason & Emily

Thinking of you today Jacob.
Amy, Dave, Max, Paige and Parker Novak

how can you miss someone you never met? we love you jacob and we are thankful for your life. love you guys.

dear jacob,
we're thinking about you and your family today.
love,
jess, josh, justin & ethan

Dear Jacob,
You are in our hearts today and every day....We Love You and Miss You!!!!
XOXOXO
Rikki,Rob,Lindsay,Emmy&Parker

Jacob,
Last night we celebrated Rosh Hashanah at your family's house. Jordan and Max read us a story and Sam sang us a song. We all ate chopped liver (Pop Pop's favorite), and had Granny's famous brisket. Jordan sipped on wine and quickly spit it out and your mom gave a beautiful toast about you and the story of the giving tree. It was a beautiful night but you were deeply missed. I sat back and watched your siblings laughing and playing with each other and I thought where is Jacob? You would have been singing about apples and honey along with them. You would have been close to Jordan's height by now. You would be running to grab Sam his blankie and bunny when he bumped his head on the table. Jacob...no matter how much time passes or how many holidays we gather for there will always be an emptiness without your smiling face there. I know you are always with us in spirit but some times that just doesn't feel like enough.

Tomorrow will be the anniversary of the day you took your last breath. So much has changed since then and yet it doesn't feel like that long ago that you were here in our arms. We all miss you terribly and it pains me to know that if you were physcially here you would be the best brother, son, grandson, great grandson, cousin and newphew to us all. Please know that you will never be forgotten and we are all so blessed to have had you in our lives for the little bit of time you were with us. Until we meet again...you will continue to be our angel and our shooting star.

I love you always,
Aunt Susie

thinking of you...

i love you

I miss Jacob.I think about him every day. Jacob would have been in first grade with his friends. I want to raise money for SMA and help as much as I can.

Hi all-

Thinking of you today for some reason. I was talking about Jacob to June (my mother in law) and we realized it will be ANOTHER year on Oct 1st. Sticks in our head I think because your family was our first real contact with another SMA family. We just past the year anniversary of KNOWING about SMA- Sept 3rd. The day our world fell apart. Our Chloe is doing pretty well, and we cherish every day. Hope you all are OK! Miss talking with you.

i love you

thinking of you jacob. know you and your pop pop gene have found one another and you are playing amongst the stars.
i love you.

i am thinking of all of you, and wondering what jacob and pop pop are doing!

xo

thank you mushers. show pop pop the ropes & where heaven's version of the nearest carvel is. i love you & miss you guys!

i think about you all the time, but today even more. i love you jacob. i hope you know how much you are loved and missed. your mommy and daddy are very strong people, today i was reminded of that more than ever.

i love you

Jacob, I wish you were here to celabrate the 4th with us. You would have loved splashing in the hose and helping us do a magic show. every thing was great execpt one thing: YOU WERE NOT THERE.

I will love you and miss you forever. Love, Jordan

Family:
I visit here often with my own thoughts and prayers. Today I decided to sign in, to let you know I am thinking about you and Jacob. I speak to him often, making sure he is looking out for his cousin Moshiko. This week I ask him to give Moshiko an anniversary hug for me. This month we celebrate our 12th year. Time usually seems like it is flying, today it seems like it is standing still. Your strenght is amazing to me. Six years later you are still my heros.

Love,
Susan

i am thinking of you . I loved it when you used to watch me play. I wish that you were here to play with us. xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo


Jordan

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox

we love you jacob and we miss you more than words can say! We are thinking about you and your family today and sending you all a big hug! Shaina ... I cant wait to see you next week and I will give you that hug in person. Love you all so much!!! XOXOXOX
the birnbaums

miss you, mushers... thinking about those awful, agonizing moments 6 years ago today... when you were diagnosed and sma entered our lives. thankful that you were oblivious, smiling, happy, perfect- that day & everyday. can't believe that there are six whole years between now and that day. i love you so much.

i love you jacob. i wish he's not died.

I have a daughter that has SMA type 2, she's 15, and is in 9th grade. She also has CP, and is mentally delayed. We were wondering if you were going to be having any more fundraisers in Florida? We missed the last one.Thank you, God Bless.

Thinking of you today and sending a special hug! What a wonderful job on the sma walk---your efforts are incredible! Jacob must be so proud! xoxo-The Salzbergs

Thinking about your beautiful family. We love you! XOXO, Dave, Dalia, Jake, and Jaden

i love you jacob. you died because you had weak muscles.

Wow, what an amazing success your event was! Thank you for all you do to help fight this wicked disease and provide support to SMA families.

Becky
mom to Jackson, type III & 3 years old
Twin sister Delaney and big sister Ava

shaina & adi i thank you so much for being a part of this incredible walk, i know that jacob and tyler are playing together in the clouds and painting beautiful rainbows. You are an amazing MOM!!. Thank you again shaina for letting me be part of jacob's walk. love ivy.

Congratulations on another successful walk! You are keeping Jacob's spirit alive so beautifully. The slideshow shows that Jacob lived his life among a wonderful, caring, giving family and a community that will honor him always. Thank you Shaina & Adi for continuing to share your love for Jacob with the world! You ALL are my heroes!

hi rappoports-
the walk was amazing!!! thank goodness jacob held off that rain storm. we are so glad we came in to be a part of it ... we wouldn't have missed it for the world!!! we love you all so much and are inspired by you more and more each year. the photo slideshow is beautiful ... a glimpse into what a super day everyone had at the walk. congratulations on such a successful event. you are always close in our hearts!!! XOXOXOXO
lisa, lewis, adam, nathan, & sarah

We had a great day at the walk. Jacob touched so many lives and it really showed today.
Amy, Dave, Max, Paige and Parker Novak

what an amazing day today! the entire event was great and everyone had a wonderful time. you guys are amazing and an inspiration to us all. congrats on another successful year! love, jess

WOW i cant even express in words the thought, love and perfection that goes into the walk year after year. Shaina and Adi you never stop amazing me. the support, inspiration, and love you both show is something i look up to. i admire the love you have for one another, and all the people around you. i look up to the both of you in so many ways. i wish more than anything that jacob were wth us, i miss him everyday. i know he was the one that held back the rain. i love you jacob.........more then i can express in words

Today's walk was fabulous! Steve said that God kept the rain away...Jacob must have put in a good word...we all had a great time and I know we raised a lot for SMA research. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to meet Amy and her family from Chicago. She is an amazing lady and she has a very special family...Shaina and Adi, we are so glad we met you last year and we hope to have many more years doing these walks with you, and getting our boys involved as they grow up...You are two of the bravest people we know. I only wish I could have met your beautiful son, Jacob. Thank you for letting us be a part of this important work that you do.

another year and another phenomenal event....shaina and adi, when you both stood up and spoke, you said it all so perfectly. i am the luckiest grammy in the world to have had the blessing to love and know jacob...jordan....your lemonade stand was awesome. you are an amazing big sister. your friends did a great job helping you. we are all so blessed to have each other. we may have always known that in our heads, but jacob has shown us the way to truly know it in our hearts..... love you all sooooo much, grammy and aunt jodi.

just a note to thank your family and foundation for such a great day. we were so glad to give our support.

Dear Jacob,

What an amazing day!!! Every year you touch more and more people and this walk was no different. It seems like each year there are more people, more items donated and of course more money to find a cure for SMA. I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to help with such an important cause and I know so many people feel the same way. You (and your family) are a true inspiration and you should know that you are loved by many.

Thank you again,

Randi

P.S. Great job holding off the rain in our area.

thinking of you all on jacob's "walk, run, stroll"...

we love y'all!

xo

Wishing you a successful walk and peace in your heart.
Love, The Glasser Family

Thinking of you all, and always about Jacob. Love and hugs.

I just read what you wrote on Max's b-day, Shaina I am so proud of you and I admire you and your strengh and most of all your honesty. You are an amazing person and you are a wonderful mom. Your kids are very lucky to have you in their lives. I love you sooooo much and appreciate all that you do for me and other families that have been effected by this horrible disease.
I will see you on Sunday. I can't wait. Love Lee C.

Jordan,
If you need help at the walk a thon, you can count on me!
Love,
Molly

Hello! Love and Good Thoughts be with your family!

I cannot wait to read and learn more about this. I got to your website through Mike's...and saw your precious holiday 2007 card on Christi & Mike's fridge.

love,
erin (a friend of Christi and Mike's)

i love you and miss you everyday

I'M WHERE YOU HAVE BEEN TIMES TWO,MY WHOLE HEART GOES OUT TO YOUR FAMILY.MY KISSES GO TO JACOB.

I am thinking about you every moment of every day. I will love you forever.



Love 100 times,

Jordan

hi! big hug!
xo

max loves you i do too.
I wish you were here if you were we'll cheer. we miss you every day and would've liked to play.

your wonderful brother and sister, Max and jordan

today is max's birthday. i'm not quite sure why this birthday has made me so reflective- perhaps it is because it is the first year that max has been so into celebrating himself. also, usually i only write about days/events here that are specifically jacobs, but celebrating my own son's fourth birthday somehow makes me so appreciative and so sad all at once.

the day we found out max was sma free (i was 12 weeks pregnant)- was probably the most spectacular moment- the best sounding sentence i have ever heard. we were in such a dark place, and at that moment- for the first time in so long- i had something to hope for. on this day, four years ago, when they laid max on my chest i just could not believe that i had a son that would live! a son we would get to keep!

each of our children have brought us so many gifts and have taught me so much about myself. it breaks my heart to wonder how our family dynamic would have been different if today wasn't the first time we were celebrating a son's fourth birthday. i wonder what max's and jacob's relationship might have been.

max- you have brought so much love and light into our lives. you truly are our tender heart angel. and while raising you (so far) has been sometimes maddening- it has always been miraculous and i wouldn't change a thing.

we love you t.h.!

Just thinking of you all and send our love!

dear jacob and family,
wishing you a happy 6th birthday
sending you our love and hugs...xoxo
love, jolie, murray, olivia, ethan & sophie.

today is a big day for our family, as susie and joe are getting married. to say that you and susie's mom will be missed does not do my feelings justice. you have been with us all weekend- at sarah birnbaum's baby naming when lisa and lewis honored you, last night in the rehearsal dinner video. i can't wait to watch your brothers in their tuxedos, but i know i will be searching for your face when they walk down the aisle with jordan and jasyn. maybe tonight you can teach susie's mom how to do the horah. we miss you mushpot.

happy belated birthday, jacob. we think about you often. love, jess, josh, justin & ethan.

Sending our love to you and your family. Happy 6th Birthday!
Love,
Dave, Dalia, Jake,& Jaden

THINKING OF ALL OF YOU TODAY AND SENDING PRAYERS AND LOVE!!!!

Happy Birthday Jacob. I love you. I want to give you a kiss. I wish you were with us.

Happy birthday Jacob xoxo

We had no idea.We can't imagine what you have experienced.Jacob and family will be in our thoughts always.

six years ago today, for the first time, i fell in love at first sight. even though jacob is our second child, there was just something different about the way we bonded from that very first moment. and as hard as today is, i also know that december 27th, 2001 was one of the happiest days of my life. i wish i could put myself back there for even a few minutes to feel carefree and whole.

i was talking to jordan yesterday trying to figure out which "buddy" jacob would most be like. wondering what his interests would be, what kind of party he would have had. each year she gets it a little more. i wonder what it is like for jordan, max & sam to grow up in a house full of so much love and so much pain.

today we sent another $6,000 to fsma to put towards stem cell research.

i can't say i am a lucky person, but i do feel blessed to have so many people surround us with love. thank you so much for everyone who sent emails, cards, called, signed the website, visited jacob's park. these acts mean everything to us.

happy birthday to my big six year old. i miss you more that i know how to write.

Happy birthday jacob. I love you and miss you so much! I wish more then anything in this world that you were still here with us. I miss you. Sending you so many hugs and kisses. Happy birthday.
I love you,
Love,
Aunt Jessica

Happy Birthday Jacob! We think of you and your family often, and especially today.
Love, Stacey, Howard, Alexa, Sophia & Joshua

Jacob,

We are thinking about you today and always. We miss you so much and wish we would have you there walking down the aisle with your brothers and sister, but we know you will be there with us in spirit.

Happy Birthday Jacob. We Love you!

Happy Birthday Jacob! Our thoughts are with all of you today.
Love, Melissa, Dave, Zachary, Jason & Emily

xoxo Maybe send off a balloon into the sky with love today?

Happy Birthday Jacob. Thinking of you and your family on your special day.

Jason,Amy,Mason and Emily(in spirit)

Happy Birthday Jacob! We are sending you balloons, rainbows, hugs & kisses on this special day. We love you very much! Our thoughts are with you and your family today and always! XOXOXOXO
Love, Lisa, Lewis, Adam, Nathan & Sarah

Dear Jacob,
We miss you sooo much and are wishing you a happy birthday!!!!
All our love always,
Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy & Chloe

Happy Birthday, Jacob!

Dear Jacob,
Happy Birthday!!!!Sending you big birthday hugs and kisses.....we love and miss you!!!!!
Rikki,Rob,Lindsay,Emmy&Parker

Happy Birthday Jacob! Our thoughts are with all of you today.
Love, Melissa, Dave, Zachary, Jason & Emily

We miss you and wish you were here with us every moment of the day. Jordan thinks that many years ago i was smiling at you this moment. jordan cried last night, remembering all that i loved doing to make you happy. i have been teaching my brothers about you. Happy 6 birthday, Max Jordan And Sam

Dear Shaina & Adi, Jordan, Jacob, Max,& Sam . . . our love to all of you, especially Jacob, on this day, his birthday

Happy Birthday Jacob. We love and miss you so much sweet boy.

sending you birthday hugs and kisses

miss you jacob... happy hanukkah

loving you and missing you today and always! i know aba, mommy,jordan,max and sam along with the rest of the family miss you so much and think about you all the time. happy chanukah jacob....i love you

Although we are now in North Carolina, our best wishes to all of your family.

Love,

Lori, Ken, Ethan and Mia

Since Chloe's diagnosis, I have been trying to find meaning for myself and what possible place I will have on this earth after she earns her wings. I try to imagine what I am going to do each day just to fill it. How do I not be a mother?Seeing this amazing website and knowing what this amazing Rappoport family has done in honor of their sweet Jacob profoundly inspires me to do the same. I feel so angry and cheated by SMA, but I will NOT let it defeat me or taint the memory of my precious daughter when she is gone. I will fight, and I will try to help others the way I am being helped by all of you now.

My daughter has just been diagnosed with SMA type 1. Thank you for all the great info on your website. I look forward to speaking with you to learn more.

Hi Shaina $ Adi,
Just want you to know that I am thinking of you guys.
With love, Deb Rooney

Although time has passed so quickly over these years I have thought about jacob and the strength of your family an infinite amount of times. Your courage and love is an amazing thing to watch. Wishing you peace in your heart at this time. All our love, Jolie, Murray, Olivia, Ethan and Sophie.

Shaina and Adi,
another year has gone by, but somehow i always seem to remember jacob and your family at this most difficult time. i speak of jacob often; in fact, i speak of your entire family. i marvel at your strength, courage and all of your determination to help find a cure for SMA. Memories last forever! Please give kisses to jordan, max and sam for me. i do hope to you see you soon.
linda

white balloons
dancing on the moon

i wish we could get in a little car and go ~zoom,zoom~ with you

thinking of you
xo

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan, Max & Sam:
We think of you and Jacob often, and especially today.
Love, Stacey, Howard, Alexa & Sophia

Dear Jacob,
We miss you so much. We can't believe it's been another year without you. And we can't believe that in only 3 months we will be getting married. You would have made the cutest little ring bearer with your two little brothers but we know you will be there under the chuppa with us in spirit. Even in the happiest of times and the best of days we are saddened by your physical absence. We hope you know that you are remembered by all that ever met you, held you, cared for you and lovd you and everyday you are missed so much. You are an angel and we are so blessed just to have known you in the short amount of time you had with us. We hope you know how much you are loved and how much we wish we could wrap our arms around you and watch you play with Jordan, Max and Sam.

Love Always,
Aunt Susie and Uncle Joe

Dearest shaina and adi,
I love you both so much. I can't begin to put in words how sorry i am that you have to go through this pain, not only today, but everyday. Although jacob isn't physically here, i know he lives in each of us, and his lessons continue to make imprints on peoples lives each and everyday. We love and miss you jacob!

Shaina & Adi,
Jacob is always in our hearts and thoughts. We are thinking of you all today.

Love, Melissa, Dave, Zachary, Jason & Emily

Dear Shaina and Adi

I love and miss Jacob so much. I am so lucky to have gotten to know him. I have been thinking of you both on this sad day.
Love Aunt Jodi

dear shaina and adi

the words never seem to match the depth of the emotion. i miss jacob so much and dream of him running, playing, and laughing with jordan max and sam. one of my greatest gifts is loving him. my greatest pain, losing him. i have an unlimited supply of love and hugs for this coninued journey.

We are thinking about you today and sending you our prayers. We are so amazed by your family's strength and courage. Please know how much we love you all. We are always here for you. Love,
Dalia, Dave, Jake, & Jaden

Dear Jacob,
On Rosh Hashanah we saw a rainbow and thought of you. I remember Rosh Hashanah 5 years ago like it was yesterday. It is so difficult to find the words to describe what you mean to so many people. Please know in your brief life you touched and continue to touch so many lives. We love you and miss you. Sending strength to your family today and everyday because they give so much strength to me.

we wish that you would be here with us. Jordan remembers when you used to watch her play. Max has seen pics of you. we love you and wish that you can play with us. Love, Jordan, Max, and Sam

Shaina & Adi,
We're thinking about you today and wishing that it could just be another day. The pain seems to get even worse around these anniversaries and the memories seem more vivid, both the good and the bad. As you stated in your posting..."I hate SMA". We can only hope that Jacob and Jessica are looking down on us and smiling and helping to guide us through this journey of life. We hope to see you soon and will be thinking of you all day.

Jacob, I'm thinking of you and your beautiful family today. You have touched so many lives. I pray for a cure to SMA today and always.

I love you jacob, yesterday i went out for a little walk, i was feeling a bit down then 3 butterflies flew up to me and around me for my whole walk. they made me think of you. and it brightened my day. i miss you jacob and i wish more then anything you were here on earth with us. i love you so so much and think about you always.

love
aunt jessica

jacob, we are thinking about you and your family today. we know that nothing will take the pain away from your family's hearts, but we know that the memories of you will keep them strong. love, jess, josh, justin & ethan

We are thinking about you and missing you always Jacob. You will forever be in our hearts. We are always here for your family...they are so strong! We have seen a few rainbows lately and it always reminds us of you. We love you all so much! XOXOXOXO
Love, Lisa, Lewis, Adam, Nathan & Sarah

Dear Jacob,
We miss you so much! You are in our hearts everyday, but especially today. We are always here for your family. We love you!
Love, Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy & Chloe

Dear Jacob-
We Love You and Miss You today and everyday...sending you a million hugs and kisses.We hope you get all the balloons that Lindsay, Emmy and Parker send to you...you and your family are always in our hearts!!!
XOXOXO
Rikki,Rob,Lindsay,
Emmy and Parker

last night we watched "jacob videos" as a family. it was comforting to see the beauty in our son's face, yet torturous to watch what a cruel disease sma is. in one part of the video, i was filming and adi came home from work. you could see jacob's face light up at the sound of adi's voice. adi sat on the couch behind jacob, and jacob's eyes danced around, searching for his aba. it wasn't until adi picked him up a couple of minutes later that he could see adi. he couldn't even turn his head to watch his daddy walk through the door. i hate sma.

over the months, as jacob's sma progressed, his mouth turned sort of downward. this is more apparent in some pictures than others. the best part about watching the videos tonight (besides seeing jacob's smile and his huge beautiful eyes) was that max said- "jacob has a rainbow mouth." i had never thought of that before- but he did have a rainbow mouth!

i look at myself in that video. i look exhausted (and about 10 years younger). it is so hard to wrap my mind around the fact that jacob has been gone for 60 months. we have come such a long way in five years. and on a day to day basis- we function, we laugh, and whenever we are asked "how many kids do you have"- we tell (a very short version) of our story. you are always here. the greatest joy of loving you and the deepest pain of not having you grow up in our home are sentiments that are just beneath the surface of our smiles. i can't begin to describe the way my heart hurts or the ache of missing you. it is awful to watch your videos instead of watching you come home from school. we love you so much mushers. wait for me, sweet boy-- mommy.

our dearest little jacob, we will miss you forever. we love you

Thinking of you all, especially Jacob. Shania and Adi you are truely the stongest parents I have met and amazing people and parents.

Thinking of you and your family today Jacob.
Love,
Amy, Dave, Max, Paige and Parker

dearest shaina and adi,
another year has gove by, and we keep thinking of what should and could have been. wish we could take away all the pain you endure.
Jacob, you are so missed!
all our love,
abaema

i love you

Love from the Umans family. Thanks Jacob for being in our corner.

I love and miss you jacob. I think about you every day. People always ask me where we got jasyn's name from. I tell your story. I teach jasyn so one day she can tell it too. i love you!

i love you & i miss you. i want to kiss you & hug you. bye.

Hi i dont know what to say but that im going through what you have been through and it too hard my son is six months and i just found out a month ago that he had sma 1 and its still unbelievable and hard to believe because he looks so normal he just cant move like other babys i feel so cheated why me and my child. i appreciate your strenght cuz i have little and i cant find the strenght to talk to someone cuz it just hurts to bad to think about his future i just live for today seeing his bright smile make my pain and sorrow disappear for a moment or two.

we love you and we miss you Jacob...you are in our thoughts and we send you lots of hugs and kisses today!

Shaina & Adi,
Just wanted you to know that I am think about all of you... especially Jacob today.

is there kindergarten in heaven? are there school supplies and uniforms and backpacks? are there new sneakers and haircuts and staggered starts? are you going to be there tomorrow? will you be walking beside jordan as she walks through the double doors? would you have had jordan's teacher? does this suck so bad because we love you so much? is it really possible that i don't have a boy to send off to elementary school this week? how can that be true? you're just supposed to be here... why do i have to continue to walk a road that i so desperately want to get off? we miss you so much mushers. thinking of you always... missing you more than ever... love, mommy

i wish you were here playing with me. i miss you so much and i love you. you would play with me, max, and sam.

spent the day with jordan, max, and sam today. missed you jacob. wished you were there!i'll love you always.

grammy

i love you. xxjjjjjjj. i want to give you beautiful flowers at jacob's park.

sweet jacob,
i am running for you in the am. i will send you a white balloon during the race! if you sit in my shoulder, think light thoughts. sometimes you get kind of heavy when we train together...

Your web-site is wonderful! You are great people & it is so amazing on what you are doing & how well you explain details. I think I visited Jacob's site when my niece Allyson- type 1 (Chicago) was 1st diagnosed. Thanks so much for helping find a cure.

been thinking of you jacob and missing you soooooo much. i love you

Thank you so much for the Type 1 luncheon at the 2007 FSMA Conference. It was sooooo nice to be able to talk with Type 1 families in a relaxed setting.

Thanks so much for hosting the Type 1 luncheon at the fsma conference. It was a pleasure meeting your wonderful, loving family. We really appreciate all your continued efforts in the sma community.

Tina, mom to Ally, SMA Type 1, born 2-2-06

we love you. i give kisses. ocean club star. love, max

thinking of you...

This past Thursday, Jacob would have had his preschool graduation at the JCC. At the bottom of the graduation program was a tribute to our son- "In Loving Memory of Jacob Isaac Rappoport." We are so lucky to have such an incredible JCC family. Even though Jacob never got the chance to go to school, he was-- thanks to them-- a part of the evening. We are grateful and touched beyond words. To know that he is remembered and included means everything to us. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

jacob, i just wanted to let you know that i was thinking about you a lot today. ~jessica

Shaina and Adi,

We love you very much. We miss Jacob each and every day. We wanted to wish a Happy Mothers Day to one of the best and strongest Mother's in the entire world... We know Jacob was with you all day in spirit. We love you!

We remember your brave parents today, Jacob -- a day that changed their lives forever. We know, too, that your spirit fortifies them and gives them strength to endure days like today when there is some pain. Much love to the whole Rappoport family, always.

i miss you so much

the walk this weekend was amazing!!!! we had an unbelievable turnout and our preliminary totals are over $92,000!!!!!!!!!!! we have hundreds of people to thank- from our donors, fundraisers & volunteers to people who contributed raffle prizes, allowed us to post signs in their businesses-- i could go on and on. it is truly a massive effort to plan an event like jacob's run, walk & roll, but it is worth it! we had eleven sma families there and we know that our angels proudly marched with us. we are so fortunate to have met so many caring, generous people on our journey. thank you from the bottom of our hearts. with love & gratitude, shaina, adi, jordan, jacob (in spirit), max & sam rappoport

In these cold and inclement winter days, your family shines bright as a shooting star: you never cease to inspire and give us hope. Thank you for all of your incredible effort towards finding a cure for SMA.

wow how amazing!!! i am in awe year after yesr with how amazing you guys are. you guys are an inspiration to all, especially me!! i love you guys. words can not even begin to explain the love i feel year after year. jacob you are missed more then you will even know!!!

love
aunt jessica

We thank you Rappoport Family and all the volunteers that made the walk so wonderfull and full of hope.we are very gratefull to meet you.Natalie had a great day and seeing her enjoying herself so much like she did today made us incredibly happy.Thank you, From Albert, Ivette and Natalie Marie.

Shaina and Adi,
The walk was AMAZING as always. It is inspiring and offers us hope each year as it keeps getting more and more walkers, volunteers, sponsors, publicity, etc. It makes everyone involved feel like we are making a difference and taking one step closer towards finding a cure for SMA. We hope you know how proud we are of you for being so dedicated year after year. And we know that Jacob couldn't be more proud of his cool parents, big sister and little brothers. Nor could he be more loved by all!

We wanted to tell you what a wonderful time we had today at the walk. Once again it was a huge success. Your hard work is inspiring and such a tribute to Jacob. What a lucky little boy he is to be blessed with such a loving caring and beautiful family. Thank you for letting us share it all with you. Love, Jillian, Lee, Emily and Marlee

Jacob, I feel blessed to be able to help with your fundraiser. At each event, I am more amazed by your family and their strength. Listening to your sister Jordan speak to hundreds of people about her little brother made my heart melt. I know that you were there in spirit. I hope we made you proud.

Hi Guys,
The walk was AMAZING today! Everyone had a great time and the weather was perfect!Congratulations on another succesful year. Love, Jess

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan, Max and Sam, have a good walk, wish you the best.

Looking forward to the walk this weekend. We know it will be great!
The Novak Family

Shaina, Adi, Jordan, Max and Sam - unfortunately, i will be out of town this weekend and will miss your special day; however, i am confident that you and your committee will pull off another great fundraiser! i'll check the website for photos, etc.

I want you to know that i will always love you know matter what. no matter what happens or what i think i will always love you

Jacob, I saw this today. I know it's true. I miss you so much.
I GIVE YOU THIS ONE THOUGHT TO KEEP
I AM WITH YOU STILL, I DO NOT SLEEP
I AM A THOUSAND WINDS THAT BLOW
I AM THE DIAMOND GLINTS ON THE SNOW.
I AM THE SUNLIGHT ON RIPENED GRAIN
I AM THE GENTLE AUTUMN RAIN WHEN YOU AWAKEN IN THE MORNING'S HUSH
I AM THE SWIFT, UPLIFTING RUSH OF QUIET BIRDS IN CIRCLED FLIGHT
I AM THE SOFT STARS THAT SHINE AT NIGHT
DO NOT THINK OF ME AS GONE I AM WITH YOU STILL, IN EACH NEW DAWN.
--Native American Prayer

hello jacob! i take you running with me every sunday! i imagine you are sitting on my shoulders as we run around and around a large lake. i run for you!

I am thinking of you and all of the other angels today. I hope your day was filled with so much love.

My name is Vanessa Kennedy I live in West Palm Beach Florida with my husband Chris and we have four children. One of our little ones got away from us one day and she lives in heaven. Her name IS Sarah. I read a little of your journal and was so touched. I wondered if your family has or attends any support groups if so please send me the info. I know how hard it is, everyday is a battle our little angel was only 17 months when she left although it was not in the same way your little one left the hurt is just as painful. I just wanted to send a big giant hug to you and your family from the Kennedys. I learned that there is no cure for our pain but there is some healing in time. God Bless you all.

Thinking of you and all that you have done for Jacob. Your efforts continue to amaze us and we wish you great success with this years walk-Love,Lauren,Mark,Noah,Justin and Ally

Jacob,
So many people think of you and your family every day. Even people your family have never met and may never know. It's amazing how one life, although so short, can touch so many and spread so much love. You were so loved, and you still are. You'll always be in the hearts of those who love you and your family! Thinking of you and your family today, and about how that always reminds me of the truly important things in life! Love, Dana

happy belated 5th birthday jacob. sending you and your family lots of love. we also want to send you wishes for a happy and peaceful new year!!! XOXO
Love,
the izenwassers

For the past five years, I have I read all the messages from everyone who knew Jacob, and the sweet messages from his brave Mommy and Aba, and I cannot imagine just how painful it must be for Jacob's family to live each year, each day without him. I too have a five year old boy, named Zachary. From the time I found out about Jacob, I felt in a sense that I coould relate, not because I knew what it was like to have a sick child, but because I knew what it was like to have a child, a little boy of the same age. And, because of Jacob I learned what is truely important in life, and he made me look at my own life in a different way. I can remember coming back to my office after a morning in court and immediately going onto my computer to "Jacob's World" to see how he was doing. I had spent many years studying and working so hard to become an attorney, and I was finally living my dream. However, my new baby was at home while I worked and "lived my dream". I never saw myself as a "stay at home mom", honestly I thought it was beneath me, that I was too smart, and too educated for that. But as I read about Jacob's days, day by day, in my offfice away from my own baby, I began to wonder why I was in the office and not with my own son, whose days as a baby were so few and so precious. I took it for granated that I had a healthy, vibrant little boy at home, how could I be away from him and all his milestones? I never told Jacob's parents how much of an impact Jacob had on my life, because I did not know them that well , and did not think it was appropiate. However, I want to thank them and Jacob for helping me make the most important and precious decision in my life. Shortly after Jacob passed away, I became pregnant with my second son and decided that life is too short, and babies are only babies for such a short time. So, I decided to stop working and to spend my days with my children. I am so fortunate not to have had to have gone through what the Rappoport family has, but I have them to thank for allowing me to savor precious moments with my boys that I did not even realize were so precious until learning of Jacob. So thank you Jacob, Shaina and Adi for sheading light into my life and allowing me to know, before it was too late just how precious our time with our childfen is. Happy Birthday Jacob, you have touched so many people in so many different ways. What a special special little boy you are! You will forever be in my heart, for what you made me see. I think of you each birthday that I celebrate with Zachary, I only wish you were here on earth to celebrate with us.
Love,
Sharon Cooper

happy birthday jacob, i love miss you so so so much. you are truely missed. there are no words to express my feelings today. i love you always

love aunt jessica

thank you everyone for all your beautiful words, thoughts, prayers and love.

five is a real little boy with interests and ideas.
five asks questions and tells stories and has best friends.
five has wishes and a favorite color and homework.

i miss you so much little mushers. jordan and max made little cakes for you and made birthday wishes for you. we sang to you, let balloons go for you- and even found a happy birthday shooting star balloon.

in the past five years i have loved more and learned more than i have in all my other years put together. i am so proud to be your mommy.

happy birthday to the boy who took my wishes and my heart to heaven.

i love you mushpot.

birthday wishes birthday prayers birthday dreams for you sweet jacob. you are missed everyday, even more today, for the dreams that could have been.your mommy and daddy are so brave, amazing and beautiful..but then i know you know that. i love you, grammy

Jacob, I love you and miss you. Wish you were with us. Wish I could see your smiling beautiful face. I will never forget you. Love to your mommy and daddy.
Love Aunt Jodi

happy birthday jacob! we miss seeing the spark in your eyes. thank you so much for watching over mike when he was sick. the sky is clear tonight & we will go look at the stars to honor your day. we love you!

shaina, adi, jordan, max, & sam, we love you and have been sending you light all day. xo

Happy Birthday Jacob! I hope you know how often I think of you and how much I miss you and love you today and always! Muah :)

Happy Birthday, Jacob. Although you and I only visited once during your short life, you will always have a special place in my heart.

Happy Birthday Jacob! I want to tell you a story and I hope it describes how I felt at the time. A few weeks ago, I opened a holiday card from your family and my first thought was how great it was that your mom and dad sent a card, the first since you have been gone, because I know how hard that must have been. I put the card down on my counter and called your mom to tell her I got it. The next day I was looking at the card again, like many people I'm sure, I was looking at 3 beautiful children, but I was also visualizing where you should be. Then I picked the card up from my dark counter and I saw the star. I hadnt seen it before and I felt like it was you reminding me that you are here in spirit even if you not here with us physically. It really felt that you were talking to me at the time reminding me that even though you lose people that you love, they are always with you. So I thank you and send you hugs and kisses on birthday.

Love, Randi

december 27,2006 23;08

HAPPY BIRTHDAY
WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU
LOVE
YAYA AND AMNON

dear jacob i wish that you were there to come to lunch with us. and ate the pancakes with us during brekfast. i wish you can come back and stay with us for your birthday. love, your big sis

To dear Jacob,
Although we never met you, your inimitable and precious life will never be forgotten. We love you for being a companion to our son and all the many other children whose spirits dwell in heaven and in our aching hearts.
To dear Shaina and Adi,
The right words are impossible to find on this day. We send you only our deepest love.
Eric, Karen, Emile, Cecilia and Carl (in spirit)

dearest jacob,
happy b-day! we miss you more than words can say!!!
hugs and kisses to your amazing mommy and aba and to your sister jordan and brothers max and sam. We are so proud of you all!
love,
saba&saba

Jacob,
Happy Birthday. I miss you so much and wish you were still here... I love you.

Happy Birthday Jacob. Your family is in our thoughts today as they celebrate your day of birth. We are sending you all so much love.

Jason, Amy, Mason and Emily (in spirit)

Happy birthday jacob. We are sending you our love and a million kisses.

Dear Jacob,
Happy Birthday sweet boy! We are sending you lots of extra special love and kisses on your special day. Just know that you have the most amazing family and friends that think about you and miss you every day. XOXO!Love always,
Lisa, Lewis, Adam & Nathan

Happy Birthday Jacob. We are thinking about you today.
Love,
Amy, Dave, Max, Paige and Parker Novak

Dear Jacob,
Happy Birthday!!! We miss you and we are sending you our love and hugs always!! You are always in our hearts!!!
Love always,
Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy, and Chloe

Dear Jacob-
Happy Birthday!!!! Sending you lots of love and sweet birthday kisses...we think about you and miss you everyday.We Love You!!!XOXOXO Rikki,Rob,Lindsay, Emmy and Parker

Hello,

I just wanted to drop in to let you know that we are sending all our love to you on this very special day-your birthday!
We will be thinking of you and your family during this very tough day. God bless.
Jason Lay- daddy to angel Aidan

i have been thinking of you. xo

Wishing you a Happy Hanukkah Jacob - We miss you! You have an amazing family and the best mommy ever! I just wanted to remind you that I love you all so much and your friendship means the world to me! XOXOXO
Love, Hugs, & Kisses,
Lisa

happy hanukah mushers. i've almost made it through another hanukah without you. i missed you at the jcc hanukah show, at aunt rachel & uncle josh's hanukah party, everywhere.

this year we sent out a holiday card. a beautiful picture of jordan, max and sam (after about 10,000 attempts) and a little star shaped punch out where your face should be. i love the card and i hate the card. i haven't decided if it is more painful to send a card or not. to actually see a small hole right in the spot where i always search for your face. to mark our loss and heartache alongside all the other beautiful families that i am so insanely jealous of.

we searched for the "right" way to make a bereaved family's holiday card. how do we sign it? should we send it at all? the card reads "happy new year." is it happy? or is it tragic? another year without you in it- part happy. part torture. in the end we just decided to go with our gut. i wish it didn't have to be so hard. i know we have so much. but it's just not enough.

wednesday you'd be five years old.
i don't want to plan your walk-
i want to plan your birthday party.
i don't want to be exhausted from missing you-
i want to be exhausted from chasing you.

i miss you. happy hanukah sweetie. we love you so much.

i wish you were with us this year for hanukkah i will cry right now i miss you

Shaina & Adi,

It's been so long since I have come here. I tend to avoid reading all of the messages to Jacob only because it pains me so very much to know that you are going through the exact same pain as we are. I cry every time I come here to read Jacob's messages.

Jacob and Marshall followed such a similar time line and I remember Shaina you once told me that your journey was coming to a close just as ours was beginning. And as true as that is, in another way, it really isn't. You know this journey will never be closed. It is a lifetime of sorting through what we have endured; what has made us who we are today, and wondering WHY WHY WHY our boys had to be taken from us. Every day without our kids is a journey. They journey never ends. You said everything so perfectly in your 10/1 entry. Each day I hope to find a way that I can comfortably live without Marshall. It's been almost 4 years and I still can't do it.

I love to hear Jacob stories. I very much wish I could have met him. It hurts so much to read about all of the hopes and dreams you had for him, and how SMA dashed every one of them.

Know that our hearts are with you daily even though we don't always make it here to tell you so.

We love you all.

~L.P.

WE LOVE YOU AND WISH YOU WERE HERE. WE LOVE YOU SO MUCH LOVE MAX, SAM JASYN, JORDAN, MOMMY, AND DADDY

missing you today mushers.... thankful for all the gifts you have brought us, from the moment i first saw your beautiful face until today. happy thanksgiving from here to heaven my biggest little boy. i love you.

A belated note to tell you how nice it to meet Jacob's little bros- Max and Sam. Jacob's sweet smile and spirit endures through his adorable brothers and loving family.

Please know that we think about you often.

Lots of love,
Jen, Peter, Sammy and Eli Rosenblatt

Thinking of you, Jacob, and of your family with lots of love...

Even though we live far away does not mean that we do not think of you and your family. Please know that you are always in our thoughts. Lots of love-Lauren, Mark, Noah, Justin and Ally

Jacob,
This morning I thought of you as a ten minute rain shower passed by and the sun came out over the ocean. I looked up at the blue sky searching for a rainbow (something that always makes me think of you). It wasn't until a few hours later that I realized what day it was. 4 years have gone by so fast and yet there is still so much pain--so many people who love you and miss you every second of everyday. Someone like you will never be forgotten.
Lots of hugs and kisses,
Aunt Susie

Dear shaina, Adi, Jordan, Max,& Sam,
You are in our thoughts and our prayers today and everyday! We love you!

Staci,Jeff,Hunter,Julia&EMMA

It is always so hard to know what to say, on jacob's angel day. I know the words i say don't matter cause they will not bring back your little boy. But even though i can't take your hurt away, know that jacob lives in all of our hearts. His life is honored through jasyn's name. Each time someone asks me why we named her jasyn i tell them the story about her cousin jacob and sma. I know when she is old enough she will continue to tell the story about jacob. The cousin she never got to meet, but taught her parents what it is to truly love, appreciate, and never take a single moment for granted. We miss you jacob today and everyday. Your lessons will forever live in our hearts.

i can't believe it has been 4 years since our families collided. shaina & adi...you, jacob, and your family continue to be a wealth of support and inspiration to us all as we, too, find ways to commit to sawyer's legacy. i am so sorry that i was just hours from meeting jacob, but i will forever be grateful for you letting me stay in your home 4 years ago today. we love you guys so very much, and we are so very blessed to have you in our lives.

dear shaina adi jordan max sam, as a mother as a grandmother i search for the words to convey my feelings to ease the pain...of missing jacob and of loving that sweet grandbaby boy that i miss kissing. there are none. i love you all so much, mom - grammy

Jacob,

I miss you so much and wish you were still here. Thinking about you today and always... Shaina and Adi, I love you so much.

You have been in my thoughts and prayers all day today. I'm so sorry for your pain and aching hearts. Thanks for this website.....it lets me get to know Jacob since I never had that pleasure while he was here on earth. Keep up all your great work in the fight against SMA. It's an incredible legacy for you shooting star!

my sweet little mushers-
how can it be four whole years since i have touched your soft skin or held you in my arms. how is it possible that we have lived our lives for 1,460 days without you here. you have been missed each and every day. not a day goes by that i don't think about you, mention you, love you, miss you. i see your image flash alongside jordan, max & sam when they play or hug each other. i foolishly look for you in empty spaces of photographs of our growing family. i still imagine you in the bath, at school, getting a haircut, in a soccer uniform- i could write a list forever. i hate sma so much. i hate what it stole from us and from all the families we have met along the way. it feels so unfair. i hate today and everything that it reminds me of- all the little details of your last 24 hours on earth. i don't know why we have to endure this unspeakable pain and heartache of figuring out how to live without you. i hope you are waiting for me and that you can feel how very much we love you. love, mommy

Dear Rappoport Family,
You are all in my thoughts and prayers today, as always, but especially on 'angel day'. May G-d grant you all the strength to continue your fight for finding a cure for SMA. Jacob is a special angel.

Just want to let you know you are in our thoughts and hearts today.
Love, The Falks

we are thinking of you & love you! xoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Thinking of you and your family today.
With our love,
Amy, Dave, Max, Paige and Parker Novak

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan, Max, and Sam,

You , and Jacob, are in our thought and hearts today--and always. We love you and we are here for you. Sending you our love, support, and friendship.

xoxoxoxo,
Hayley, Joe, Jacob, Sammy & Chloe

thinking about you today and always. i love you and miss you. im sending you lots of balloons and kisses today. oh how i wish you were here.
i love you
aunt jessica

Dear Jacob-
We will never forget your big beautiful eyes,chubby cheeks and gorgeous smile...
We Love You and Miss You!!! Sending you lots of hugs, kisses and balloons today and always.
XOXOXO
Rikki,Rob,Lindsay,Emmy&Parker

Dear Rappoports, just letting you know that I am thinking of you today and that my heart and love goes out to you, Jacob is a special angel and always will be. I love yous, Aunt Jodi`

thinking of you today jacob as we always do ... we remember your bright eyes and your wonderful smile. you all do an amazing job raising awareness about SMA and you continue to be an inspiration to everyone. You are a beautiful family!! We hope you have fun at the beach today. we love you all so much. you are always in our thoughts and prayers.
love, the birnbaums

we wish you were here in our new house with us and go to the beach with us i miss you very very very much we want you to come and vist us today and go to the beach

jacob, we just wanted you to know that we think of you whenever we read about shooting stars in books. we also think of you each week when we save tzedakah to send to your foundation each year. and lately we think of you when we hear the song "godspeed" by the dixie chicks. it's about a little boy and everyone's favorite bedtime story "goodnight moon." even though we never met you, you are always in our thoughts and prayers. so is your beautiful family. wishing you all a good angel day tomorrow and a very happy 5767. maybe this will be the year that produces a cure for sma. love, the millers

we miss you very much and wish you were with us all the time

Just thinking about the twinkle in your eyes!

dear jacob
i am thinking about you all the time. i wish you can be with us on sunday.we are all going to the beach. love, your big sister

Just wanted to send my love. I hope you all are doing well.
Take care, Deb

dear mushpot- i missed you so much this weekend. "shana tova" or "happy new year" is just not the same without you in it. rosh hashanah was one of the only holidays you were here to celebrate with us. sam wore the shirt you wore four years ago. sending you a million apples & the sweetest honey to heaven baby boy. love, mommy

i love you jacob, i think about you a lot. you are very missed.

dear jacob we think about you all the time we miss you
love sam jordan and max

Jacob- I hope you are showing my emily the way around heaven. I am sending you both all of my hugs and kisses.

Hey, Our Martial Arts Center is looking for ways to contribute to the community. I immediately thought of you guys. Any ideas on how we can host an event, demonstration for this very worthy cause? Thinking about you always,
Love cousin Susan

It's Labor Day weekend and I am tuned in to the Jerry Lewis Telethon. My thoughts are with you, Jacob, and the entire Rappoport Family. Shaina and Adi, you are doing such an awesome job of raising awareness of SMA and raising funds for research. I'm so proud of you!

jacob, i missed you a lot this weekend. max and i talked about you and how much we love you. shaina and adi know i have said this a million times, but you both are amazing and i only hope to one day to have the same love in my life that you guys have in yours. jacob was in my thoughts all weekend, i miss him!!!
love
aunt jessica

Thank you Rappoport family for sharing and continuing to share your life journey. You are an inspiration and resource for me as I know I will have to face the same reality someday.

Dear Jacob,
I went to a concert the other night and a girl sang "Somewhere over the rainbow". I couldn't help but think of you. In fact,whenever I hear that song, I think of you and your family. All our love-Lauren, Mark, Noah,Justin,and Ally

I just wanted to send you some wishes your way! your story is truely amazing! god bless!

i love you and miss you everyday.

Just dropping a note to let you know that last week I saw a bright rainbow on my way to work and immediately I thought of Jacob. No matter how much time passes he is still very much loved and missed by many. Hope you all are well!

Hi Jacob,

thinking of you and your family. Just stopped by to say hello.

Jim, Sue, Michelle & Jen.

dear jacob
WE LOVE YOU WE MISS YOU TO JORDAN JUST GOT HOME FROM CAMP AND WISH"S YOU WERE THERE AT CAMP WITH HER LOVE: jordan max sam mommy and aba

i miss you and love you
if you came back you can be with us but now i still miss you

i love you jacob and miss you everyday!!! i thought about you a lot today, i wish you were here to play with your brothers and sister.

i love you
aunt jessica

i thought about you today. i wonder if you are doing tricks to make the angels laugh, like standing on you head... xo

Dear Jacob,
I am writing to ask for your blessings as we begin our 2nd campaign in to raise money for your foundation in memory of our son Carl. We hope to spread the message and good works carried out by your amazing parents to more people this year. We think of you and your family very often.
Love,
Karen and Eric

thinking of you today. we love you. xoxoxoxo
lisa, lewis, adam & nathan

i miss you very much

your mommy already said it! on passover we missed you so much. when i take photos with your brothers and sister and your cousin jasyn, my heart hurts that you arent there to also run up onto my lap,and squish in close.i miss your smile. you are always in my heart. i love you jacob. grammy

dear jacob i see you as a star
in the sky. i wish you were here to play with us and see us. we miss you i wish you were at my wicked show

happy passover mushpot. we missed you last night. we used your kiddush cup as elijah's cup and everyone poured some of their wine into it. jordan didn't really want to part with her gatorade- but she did. i wish i could have heard you running around with jordan and max searching for the afikomen. maybe you had something to do with why it took them so long to find it. i hate how no matter what, you will always be missing. even though we are all together- we can't be all together. i miss you so much angel boy.

Jacob,
I wonder what you are doing,and what or who you are playing with? Maybe you can go on an adventure tonight, get some magic heaven dust, and sprinkle it on mike while he is sleeping?
xo

Jacob,
I think about your big, beautiful eyes often, and lately almost daily. My sweet Joseph was named after you, so you are his angel. I know you are watching over him. Please give him extra love at night and during naptime. He is worried that Mommy & Daddy will not come home. He is worried about his Daddy's boo boo. He has not been sleeping very well. Thank you; I wish you were here to play with him. Kiss Hug!
Christi Umans

jacob we wish that yuo were here with
us we love you and miss you we love you
loveyour sister and your brothers

jordan wants you now to come and play
with us you have a new brother sam
and he is missing you too

dear jacob, yesterday i played with your beautiful sister and brothers, and your beautiful cousin jasyn. how i wish you could have been there. how very much i miss you, , beautiful sweet grandboy...you just wouldn't believe. i never stop thinking about you. i love you so much. love, grammy

dear jacob i miss you
i want to have you back!
i wish you were here
to play

Dear Jacob,
Today I took our children to the park to play, and as they were playing a young father with two children came near where we were playing. He was holding a 7-week old little boy, which of course reminded me of our Carl. Cece and Emile came over to say hello and to peek at the baby, and they told the man that they had a little brother who is now in heaven. And the man said, "That's a good place to be." He then asked me about what had happened to their brother, and I shared about SMA and about the fight for a cure. The man was so easy to talk with -- which I appreciated because, as your mom and dad know, no matter how many days, weeks, and years pass from losing you brave and sweet little ones, it always cuts deep. Anyway, I wanted to tell you that when they got ready to leave, I introduced myself. And he said, "My name is Jacob. And this little one is Samuel. We hope to see you again." He returned a few minutes later from home with some freshly baked chocolate cookies. I thought of you and your new little brother -- another Jacob and Samuel. I felt you there, in some way making it easier. Thank you, sweet little Jacob.

i love you jacob and think about you always.

hi rappoports! mazel tov on samuel red. we're very very very happy for you and your whole family. you deserve this the most!

jacob i miss and love you everyday.

we are so excited for your new addition to the very loving rappoport family. we can't wait to meet sam one day soon!
all our love, rebecca and jonathan

we love you jacob. we know you kissed samuel red before he was born!

Yay!!! Welcome Sam!!!!Congratulations, Adi and Shaina! We send you our love and so much happiness.

Mazel Tov on your latest addition! We wish you all the best and send our love and kisses! Love-Lauren, Mark, Noah, Justin and Ally

we're very proud to annouce the birth of jordan, jacob, and max's new baby brother - samuel red rappoport. he was born on friday february 17 at 1:26 pm. 7 lbs 1 oz. 21" we're bringing baby sam home tomorrow!!

the pictures are the best. i love you guys so much. jacob i miss you always

jessica

i miss playing with
you jacob i miss
you i hope you
miss me

just a short note to let you know i am forever thinking of jacob!

I love you guys! I miss you Jacob.

jacob we love you and miss you
i miss you too!
love your big sister
jordan

Dear Jacob,
Happy Belated Birthday! We send all of our love to you! Love --Lauren, Mark, Noah, Justin and Ally

Happy Birthday, Jacob. Thinking about you and your family today...Jess, Josh, Justin & Ethan

Happy Birthday, beautiful boy who is so deeply loved and missed. We lit a candle for you all day today. We remember you as one whose shining life and heroism helped your mommy and daddy to in turn give us strength and courage. We send you love and honor you, Jacob Isaac.

Happy birthday, Jacob! We want to send a lot of birthday love to you, your Mommy and Daddy, Jordan and Max.
- Stacey, Howard, Alexa and Sophia

dear jacob

we wonder. we wonder. we think of you everyday and of course ...especially today. we love you with all our hearts.

Happy Birthday Jacob - I miss you! --Uncle Oren

happy birthday jacob. we are thinking about you and your family always.

happy birthday jacob.
we love and miss you so much!

happy birthday jacob, we are thinking of you and your family today.
love,
the novaks
amy, dave, max and paige

Happy 4th Birthday!!! We think about you all the time with the warmest of thoughts. Sending you lots of love on your bithday :)
Love, Jolie, Murray, Olivia and Ethan

Dear Jacob,
Happy 4th birthday!!!! Not a day goes by that you are not remembered. We miss you sooo much and we love you!!
love always,
Hayley, Joe, Jacob, and Sammy

Dear Jacob-
Happy 4th Birthday sweet boy!!! We love you & miss you so much!!! We think about you every day...your big, bright eyes and your beautiful smile. Sending you lots of birthday hugs and kisses XOXOXOXOXXOX Love Always, Lisa, Lewis, Adam & Nathan

jacob happy birthday. i love and miss you everyday. sending you so many hugs and kisses, oh how i wish you were here.

i love you so so so so so much
aunt jessica

Dear Jacob-
Happy 4th Birthday!!! We miss you and think about you every day. Sending you lots of birthday hugs and kisses...
Love You- Rikki, Rob, Lindsay, Emmy and Parker

happy 4th birthday jacob.
4 seems so old. i wonder what kinds of ideas you would have, how would your hair look. what would be your favorite toy. what would you sleep with and what pattern would be on your big boy sheets.

another year, another birthday, and the hurt doesn't change. the only thing that changes is that everyone else gets one year older, and the list of things we don't get to do with you grows longer. it feels so unfair.

i hope you have the best birthday mushers. we will send you balloons and our love and all the wishes you took with you when you left us. we miss you so much birthday boy. all our love- mommy, aba, jordan & max

Shaina and Adi - you both continue to inspire me. Julie, Sage and Noah and I had the best time at the walk. I'm so happy that my extended family was able to participate. Your efforts and love certainly should make Jacob proud of his parents. Jacob could not have chosen a better mommy and daddy.

shaina & adi-
the walk was an amazing day ... as always!!! you continue to be an inspiration to all! sending love and XOXOXOXOXO's to jacob.
-lisa, lewis, adam & nathan

the walk was beautiful. we continue to be inspired by the beautiful human beings you are. we love you more than we can say..........

Congratulations on such a successful walk! You guys are amazing! $90,000 - wow! Love, Jess Strikowski

WOW.....what an amazing day. yesterday was beautiful. the love that is felt is overwhelming. i am so happy that it was such a huge success. i love and miss jacob everyday.
i love you all so much
jessica

Jacob's Run, Walk & Roll to Cure SMA raised over $90,000! We are in awe of our supporters and thank each and every one of you from the bottom of our hearts! Thank you so much to everyone who came out to help us celebrate life and conquer SMA. Also, thank you to all of our corporate sponsors and to those of you who donated your time, money or items from your businesses. We are committed to finding a cure for this horrible disease and we know that with people like all of you it will happen. Thank you, thank you, thank you... pictures to come soon!

We were thinking of you all yesterday and wish we could have been a part of it. We know it must have been a huge success! All our love-Lauren, Mark, Noah, Justin and Ally

What a great day it was today. I continue to be inspired by the amount of work that Shaina, Adi, and the rest of the team puts in each year... I know it makes Jacob so proud!

I wish I could have been there today for the walk. Please know that my thoughts were with Jacob and all of you who always put so much time, energy and heart into this event each year--rain or shine. You all are amazing and I am sure that you continue to make Jacob so proud each and every day. I saw a beautiful rainbow on my way to work last week and just stopped my car and thought of Jacob...it is crazy how much he is missed and how he has touched so many lives in such a short amount of time. I hope to see you soon.
Lots of love,
Susie

Dear Jacob,
We know that your mommy and daddy, sister and brother, and many others worked very hard on your walk. We wish we could have been there to support them, but we send our loving thoughts to you all nonetheless. We've been thinking of you all day today. Thank you for sharing your family with us, for being there for our little Carl and for so many other little ones who have bravely fought this deadly disease. Many, many blessings.

dear jacob i wish you can go
to your walk with me
love jordan

best wishes for the upcoming weekend!

we are looking forward to the walk and know it will be an amazing event
amy, dave, max and paige novak

Julie, Sage and Noah will be in town and we are all looking forward to a fun day on the 18th.

It was great having you at the house finally. I'm looking forward to next Sunday. Lova ya guys.
AAA

I just ran into your site looking for information on how to cure my baby's clogged tearducts and my heart broke all over again. Last year I had Lauren Alyssa who blessed us for 6 hrs. before she passed away from a diaphragmatic hernia. I feel your pain and pray for your family. GOD BLESS YOU!

We love you guys and miss you!

missing you today, jacob-
thankful for the time we had with you, but wishing so much you could be with us. love, mommy

i love you and cant wait until the 18th i know it will be great as always!!!!!

love you guys - we are looking forward to the walk in december. it is going to be an amazing event as it always is!!!! XOXOXOXXO lisa, lewis, adam & nathan

unfortunately, jacob's run, walk & roll is postponed due to hurricane wilma. quiet waters park suffered significant damage during the storm, and is currently closed. we are left with no choice but to search for an alternative date for our event. even though we are extremely upset about having to reschedule, we are still committed to finding a cure and we hope that everyone will be able to join us.

Just thinking of you guys and wishing you well.
Take care, Deb

You are in our thoughts and our hearts with our deepest love and admiration. we hug you always. Love, aba and ema

Thinking of you guys and loving you with all our hearts.!!

our thoughts are with you today and always. we love you all so much!! we miss jacob and we are sending him extra hugs and kisses today. XOXOXOXOX love, lisa, lewis, adam & nathan

always in our thoughts and prayers. always with a heart full of love....

you are forever in my thoughts, i love you so much and miss you everyday.

love
aunt jessica

oh jacob-
on a day like today, it doesn't feel like three years. it may as well be three minutes. i dread october first as soon as sawyer's angel day rolls around on sept 19th. i wish so much each year that today won't come- and yet it does. and i am forced to face our reality.

i am sorry that you had to have sma. i am sorry that i couldn't fix you. i am sorry that i couldn't make it all better. i am sorry that you couldn't grow up with our family. i am sorry that max and your little brother on the way will only know you through pictures, memories and our stories, and that jordan even has to know what an "angel day" is. sometimes max laughs at the same things that you used smile at. he laughs so loud and i know that he laughs for both of you. i wonder if you would have laughed like that had you been strong enough.

i just miss you. it's as simple and as complicated as that. i miss the days when we had you here. i miss all the things we should be doing with you that we will never be able to do. i want you back. i want to be "normal."

i know that we hurt so badly because we love you so much.
you are forever in my heart.

until we meet again, little mushpot-
mommy.

i miss you jacob. your angel day is tomorrow. i am sad because you died.
love, your big sister jordan.

thinking of you guys as always. you are such an incredible part of sawyer's story. we applaud all that you do in honor of jacob

i miss you jacob

I am Jarred's father. He has SMA II and I am so thankful for all the webpages out there that raise awareness to this disease. Our families prayers are with yours.

www.mykainalu.com

The Rappaport Family,

Just thinking of all of you. Wishing you congratulations on the upcoming addition to your family and thinking about Jacob as I always do as my birthday (October 1) is coming closer. I am so proud of all you do with Jacob's Foundation.

Love to all of you - Shaina, Adi, Jordan, Jacob and Max.

Elissa, Kevin, Connor & Aaron Whorl

What fabulous news to hear!!! Mazel Tov and I wish your family all the happiness and health in the world!

Congratulations!!!! I'm so happy for you guys and wish you the best of luck! Deb

MAZEL TOV! What beautiful news! We wish you much love and simcha!

We want to wish Mazel Tov to the Rappoport Family! We are so happy to hear the good news. Love,
Stephanie, Adam , Alana & Emily Starr

Wishing you lots of mazel about your wonderful news that Jordan, Jacob and Max are going to be "big" siblings! Hope you are feeling well.

jacob, i miss you. i wish you would come back from heaven and play with me and your brother max and your other brother in mommy's belly. love, jordan

Mazel Tov! What wonderful news! We are so happy for all of you.
Love,
Debbie, Doug, Isaac and Ethan

mazel tov to you all! we look forward to the new addition! much love,lauren,mark,noah,justin, and ally

shaina, adi, jordan, jacob, and max - congratulations to all of you for your soon to be new addition!! how very very exciting and happy. we couldn't think of a more loving family for him to become a part of.
all our best,
rebecca and jonathan

mazel tov!!! i was so happy when i just read the news!!! :) all my love and good wishes for a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Dear Rappoport Family,
CONGRATULATIONS on the wonderful news about your growing family! I was thinking of Jacob this morning when I saw a rainbow on my way to work; wondering how Jordan enjoyed her first day of Kindergarten and that I can't wait to see how big Max has gotten. Hope you all are doing well. Love Always, The Jourdins

We just read your good news! Mazel Tov to all of you!
XOXO
The Siffs

just wanted to share our good news...

jordan, jacob and max are going to have a new, SMA-FREE baby brother in february!!!! we are so excited!!!!!!!!!

hello!My name is Diana and my son Ajas have SMAII.I love him very much.He teach me how to live,how to respect every moment in life.When I read stories of pearents who lost their children I alvays cry and pray to God to give me streinght to fight this cilling deassise.I am greatful for every moment with him and always have in mind all SMA children and their parents.I LOVE YOU ALL

You are always in my thoughts and prayers. I check out the site once a month to catch up on things. Love to everyone.

Susan and Anabel Zohar

Sitting with rach and talking about you guys and this beautiful site.

Love you all!
Courtney

Thinking of you...

Hugs and Kisses ... just thinking about you!

Hey Adi, Shaina, Jordan and Max, I was just thinking of you guys and of Jacob of course as always. Just wanted to send all my love and I miss you all.
Love always,
Stephie<33

thinking about jacob today...sending your family lots of love. xoxoxo

Just thinking about Jacob.....

jacob, i love you and miss you all the time

i love you and i miss you, jacob. i wish you would come back from heaven. big sister loves you and max loves you too. mommy misses you and daddy misses you. and i do too.

we love you and think of you every day!!! sending big hugs and kisses to all of you! love, lisa, lewis, adam & nathan

Dear Jacob,
Please snuggle into your mommy's and daddy's minds and hearts for me. Let them know of the countless ways I have leaned on everything they have done and shared with me and Eric to help us.

i love you and miss you today and everyday, always

I love you guys. Thinking about you today and everyday.

Thinking of you and Jacob... and sending you lots of hugs and support today and everyday.
We Love You- Rikki, Rob, Lindsay, Emmy and Parker

i have had some pretty horrible days in my life. three years ago today was one of them. there is so much that is crystal clear to me about that doctor's appointment. the neurologist's face isn't too clear, but the way he leaned back against the medical cabinets, the way he held a file which moments later i learned contained some information he had downloaded about spinal muscular atrophy. the way, after he delived jacob's daignosis- i asked him if jacob would die- and the way he regretfully shook his head yes. the most painfully clear picture is my image of jacob- smiling, oblivious about why were were devastated and why he wasn't strong enough to grasp the toys he tried so desparately to reach that were dangling above his carseat.

on a day like today, i can hug my two healthy children but the space between them is so enormous, it feels as though ten oceans wouldn't fill it.

my heart hurts for you jacob. i miss you so much.

dear son, i miss you with all of my heart and soul, today and everyday. i miss the joy that you brought into our lives. i miss your tender smile. i miss the quiet stolen moments. how i wish you were here with us, healthy and happy. i love you so much.

we love and miss you jacob

About a year ago when our baby was first diagnosed with SMA, we recieved a card from the shooting star foundation. I am here today to tell you how much that card and its sweet gestures touched our heart.
Our baby girl lost her fight with SMA1 on August 26, 2004.
Thank you for taking the time to say you care.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you forever.
The Vickers

Just thinking of you and hoping you are all well. Kevin and I will see you at the conference. Missing my Jessa and just reading a few web pages tonight.
Love to you.
Alisa

i love you. i miss you. i remember when you liked balloons. i go to publix and get a balloon and let it go for jacob. love, jordan

Angie, I am sooo incredibly sorry to hear about your angel. I went to school with you (otonabee valley, confederation). We didn't know each other very well, but I am still best friends with Tanya Monteith. I have a 2 yr old myself and I can't image what you are going through, and what you have been through already. Feel free to contact me if you wish, and I know his is in peace now. Kisses for Jacob, and a squeeze for your daughter.
Take care. Best wishes.

Little Jacob, whisper in your mommy and daddy's ears, brush against their cheeks, visit them in dreams, burrow deep inside of them for me, to tell them of my love for them. And you, brave and strong little man, receive my heart as well.

I found your website from being at Baby Jacob (Baby Bear) Proctor-Trick's website. He passed away at the age of 18 months on Feb. 19/05 from SMA. His mother, Angela, is devastated and he left a big sister, Ayssa. I didn't know them personally but live in the same city and found out about them in the news and followed Jacob's progress. I'm praying for Angela and her daughter continually that God will help them find peace and ease the pain and I will pray for you and your family also. Having 2 children, I cannot imagine the pain of losing one of them. If you'd like to visit Baby Jacob's site, it's www.caringbridge.org/canada/babyjacob.

God bless you and your family.

I'm thinking of you guys and hope you are well. Lots of love, Deb

Shaina:
I am so sorry for the loss of your son Jacob. I can't even try to imagine what you and your family are going through. My prayers are with you and I am sure he is looking down on his Mommy and Daddy with great love. I am so proud of you for putting this website together to help not only your healing process, but to help others. Lots of love,

Elliana Bondy (Mizel)

I am so sorry for all the pain you have gone through. You and your family have had a lot of courage throught the years. i actually am doing a project on this disease for school and since its isnt very common and my mom's friend's son has it i decided to. my thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless.
Lindsay

thinking about you and loving you today and always

Dear Rappaport Family,
My sister Karen V. has gotten so much inspiration from your thoughts and prayers. May God Bless you abundantly for all that you do, for all that you have done, and all that you have endured. Carl will certainly have a wonderful angel to guide him and keep him company. Your family is in my prayers as well and we wish you peace and love.

thinking of your beautiful family, thankful that you are there, knowing that you understand, wanting you to know how much we admire you and care for you even though we've never met...

Dearest Shooting Star Jacob,
From now on everytime I look at a balloon I will think of you! Thank you for that

We are sorry that we are late, but our belated birthday wishes remain the same. Happy Birthday Jacob! We hope you are smiling because your family loves and misses you so very much! Please know that our thoughts are with you Shaina and Adi and your beautiful children. We think of you often and miss our friends so much! All our love and kisses-Lauren,Mark, Noah, Justin and Ally

we love and miss you jacob. we think of you everyday and talk about your big eyes and your amazing smile. we talk about how much love you brought into this world...just what an amazing gift you are. love grammy and aunt jodi

Happy Birthday Jacob! We Love You and Miss You.
Love, The Blooms

happy birthday jacob...i love and miss you so much....

dear jacob,
happy birthday beautiful three year old boy. we miss you so much! we talk about you and think of you often. your bright eyes and loving smile will remain in our hearts forever. sending you lots of birthday hugs & kisses. we love you!
love, lisa, lewis, adam & nathan

dear little jacob,
we send you joyful birthday wishes and thank you's for your prayers for our carl...
love,
eric, karen, emile, cece and carl

Happy Birthday, Jacob! You are in our thoughts often.
Adi, Shaina, Jordan and Max, you too, are in our hearts. We wish you a wonderful year, blessed with much happiness.
Love,
Debbie, Doug, Isaac and Ethan

Jacob, I think about you all the time and I miss you so much. Happy Birthday, I love you.

we are thinking of you today and everyday. happy birthday jacob!

happy birthday big boy. sending you and your family much love on this special day!!!
love, jolie,murray,olivia and ethan

What a beautiful day, reminds me of you, Jacob. We think about you always. Happy Birthday, we love you very much

I miss and love you jacob so much. Happy birthday beautiful boy...

Dear Jacob,
Happy birthday! You are in our hearts always. We love you and miss you. We will always be here for you and your family. xoxoxo
love, Hayley, Joe, Jacob, and Sammy

Dear Jacob,
Happy Birthday!!! You are missed more and more every day by every life you touched 3 years ago. You are forever in our hearts.
We Love You and Miss You!!!
Rikki, Rob, Lindsay and Emmy

dear jacob, happy birthday. i love you so much that i want you to come back. love your big sister jordan.

wow jacob. 3 years old. i often wonder if you really are three years old, or when i see you if will you still be nine months and four days?

3 years ago when they said "he looks like daddy."

3 years ago when i was ignorant and completely happy and had never even known the words spinal muscular atrophy existed.

sometimes i wish i could freeze my life, somehow re-capture the more "carefree," pre-diagnosis shaina (we all know i was never really ever totally carefree).

three birthdays, and still on a day like today, i have not learned how to erase the pain and keep only the joy you brought us. we haven't gotten used to it. today isn't any easier that it was two years ago to celebrate your birthday without you. it still hurts more than i can possibly express with words.

birthdays are about wishes and i can wish forever for what i want the most and it won't come true. i can go on and on about what i wish we could be doing together today and it simply can't come true.

i painted you a birthday present. three big fish in lee edelstein's new office. it is a small thank you for everything he did for you and us.

the people whose lives you have touched have enabled your foundation to send $75,000 to families of sma today. i am in awe of our supporters and i am so proud of you.

i do feel that you surround us, and i am thankful for that. i see more rainbows, more butterflies, more sunsets and more sparkles on the waves in the ocean.

i hope you eat lots of cake today and perhaps you will go fishing or play catch. maybe you will run and dance and spin around until you get so dizzy that you fall to the ground giggling. maybe the breeze will run through your hair and maybe your eyes will sparkle like they did everyday of your short life. i can't wrap you a present, i can't wrap my arms around my big three year old boy and sing happy birthday in your ear. instead i will send you my love because it's the only gift i can send. i hope so much you can feel how much we love you, how we ache for you. how we smile for you everyday on the outside, but that our tears are never far behind the smiles.

i will celebrate your life, and that glorious day three years ago that you came into my life. the day that you wrapped yourself around my heart and have not let go. happy birthday jacob. i love you so much.

P.S. Happy Birthday Jacob.

Your story reminds me so much of Carl. I can't believe what you've been through and how much you must still miss little Jacob.

tonight is the first night of hanukah. i have presents on the table for jordan and max, piled high. i have presents in the garage for a less fortunate little girl i have never met, bought with some of the money we would have spent on you. would you have wanted trains? a silly soccer game? a little grill or rescue heros? what size sneakers would you wear? would you and max have matching shirts? would i have gotten my act together enough to send a holiday card with my three beautiful, happy children on the front? would you be a mess of flour and jelly from the sufganiot and of chocolate from hanukah gelt? we will light your menorah and i won't be able to feel your hand help me light it. your image will flash between jordan and max, but will disappear as soon as it comes. i wish so much you were with us, little man. happy hanukah mushpot. we love you.

just saw the most beautiful rainbow and, of course, i thought of jacob and the entire rappoport family.

The pictures are great! Makes us miss everyone even more! Wish we could have been there in person, but know that we are always with you! Miss and love you guys-Lauren, Mark,Noah, Justin,and Ally

what amazing pictures that day was fantastic....jacob you are loved and missed very much

What beatufiful pictures, to capture a beautiful day..
I miss and love you jacob.

the fundraiser was amazing. the outpouring of love was beautiful. i yearn and always will to hold jacob in my arms once again. i feel him in the love he continues to bring to us all in only the way an angel can.

To the Rappaport family,

I had an excellent time at the fundraiser and it was extremly fun. I would have loved to meet jacob but Max and Jordan are adorable. I wish the best to you and your family and look forward to next years fundraiser.

Congratulations on another great leap towards the cure of SMA. The strength and devotion of your family is just amazing. Jacob must be so proud. Congratulations!!!

Hi guys! I have heard from everyone that the walk was such a success. We only wish that we could have been there in person. I was thinking of you all day on Sunday. Please know that we miss you guys very much and look forward to hopefully seeing you soon! All of our love--Lauren,Mark, Noah, Justin, and Ally

I haven't been to your site in a while, it is just beautiful, a beautiful tribute to a special boy. We were so sorry that we couldn't make it to the walk and so thrilled to hear it was such a success. Please know that our donation will be on it's way and Jacob and his family continue to touch our lives.
With love,
Stephanie, Adam, Alana and Emily

Sunday was amazing. i had such a wonderful time. i know jacob and all his friends were with us, they all made the sun shine so bright. i love you guys and cant wait till next year

wow!!!!!!!!!! what an amazing day we had on sunday! thank you thank you thank you! we had such an incredible turnout and the preliminary total raised ics over $62,000!!!!!!!!!!! thank you for being part of such a special event. we know that jacob and his angel friends were with us and are proud. check back soon for photos and the grand total!

Dear Rappoports,
Thanks so much for such a wonderful day! I know Jacob, Sawyer and many other SMA Angels were smiling down on us today. Your family is such an inspiration to so many. We're so glad we could be a part of Jacob's Run, Walk and Roll!
Love Always,
The Jourdins

Adi and Shaina,
From a childhood friend and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you and Jacob. Adi, please send regards to Eyal, Oren and your parents.....its been too many years. Take care, Scott.... SMB9866@comcast.net

i love all my grandchildren sooooooooo much...even though i cannot hold jacob in my arms, my love for him does not diminish in my heart, but grows every single day as it does for jordan and max. i know the walk will bring blessings and i so look forward to that special day.

Please view my website:www.drkitay.com and let me know how I can help.

I just wanted to say how excited I am to be attending your walk-a-thon once more! I look forward to seeing your whole family and getting another step closer to finding a cure for SMA. Thinking of you all-Susie

I'm So Sorry!

I was just surfing the web and came across this. My heart is breaking for you.

Shaina and Adi, I havent seen or talked to you in about 10 years, since we graduated from UF.

Your family will from no on be in my family's prayers.

this a.m. i read the sun-sentinel society pages and found an article and photo promoting your fundraiser! sorry that i will be unable to participate. best of luck.

The love for you son comes through on your beautiful site.

Hi, I'm a paediatric nurse from England. I'm caring for a baby with a recent diagnosis of Sma type 1. I was searching for some information on the internet and came across your story. Jacob sounds a very lovely little boy. He is very cute. Anyway thank you for your story. It has given me some insight. All the best.

I have a friend her name is melissa, she should be the poster child in sense for this disorder. Melissa is 21 years old and is a sucessful college student despite this disablity. I " swear" she puts me to shame with her intelligence sometimes, but no matter what she has never let this disorder get her down. I think shes hope for anyone dealing with this disorder. Shes an inspriation to me and my future career in occupational therapy.

Hello,
I don't know you but I am a friend of Amy Smith's. I became aware of SMA when I heard of Amy's son Sawyer. I just wanted to say that you touched my heart by naming your son after Sawyer. You have my admiration. You and Amy as well, are so brave!

Wendy Bramlett

Wishing you much success on your walk for sma. I was hoping to attend but I will be out of town that weekend. However my thoughts will be with you and your family.

i love you guys so much. jacob you are loved and missed more than you can ever imagine and more that can ever be expressed.
i love you so much.....

shaina, adi, jordan, & max -
we love you all so much and want you to know that you are always in our thoughts and our prayers. thank you for continuing to be an inspiration to us all. we know that every day is hard but this time of year being even more difficult we really apprecitae all the love and support you have given to our family this week. thank you for being my best friend and know that i am always here for all of you!!
jacob - we miss you every day and wish you were still here with us. we love you very much! we will continue to think of you every day ... always!
all our love,
lisa, lewis, adam, and nathan

shaina, as always your words are so moving and resounding. you have kept jacob's memory alive in all of us who have been touched by his life. you are such an incredible inspiration to me as a mom. i try every day to lead my life in jacob's legacy and fill every minute of my family's life with love. we send you overflowing love today and always. we miss you and love you too jacob.

we love you all very much and are thinking of you always, but especially today. we understand that it is never quite the day of, but rather the days that surround this date that may be the hardest, but we are here for you whenever, nonetheless. jason and i saw a shooting star the night before sawyer's going home date and thought of you and jacob. what fun it must be for our boys to be riding the tails of comets. much love to you and our little ones.

We are thinking about you today and everyday. Your courage and strength are truly an inspiration to us.
All our love,
Jodi, Danny, Matthew & Garrett

Shaina, Adi, Jordan and Max--
Just wanted you all to know that we are thinking of you all and Jacob today---in Potomac. The stars are very bright tonight-a reminder of every day that Jacob is with us and watching from above. We miss all of you very much! All our love-thinking of you today and always-Lauren, Mark, Noah, Justin and Ally

the light of jacob, our shooting star continues to shine so brightly; it brings tears and yet is also so full of love and hope that it guides my every step. my love increases with the time. i love you all so much, mom

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan, and Max I just want you to know that I love you. I am here for you. I think of Jacob often and I miss him very much. Love, Aunt Jodi

today i was working on the fundraiser and as i was going home, i saw the biggest and brightest rainbow. i truly felt it was jacob. i have only seen a few rainbows in the past two years and they have only been on days when something important was happening in the rappoport family. it brought me comfort to know that jacob was watching down on us.

thank you to jacob and his family for sharing their life and pain with so many people. their courage and love inspires so many of us.
i know that he would be proud of his family's efforts to find a cure for this horrible disease.

i know that nothing i can say will make this day or any day any better, but please know that we are thinking of you.

love,

the blooms



felt like it was jacob's way of showing that he is still with us.

when i saw it, i said a big thank you for

Thinking of you guys and loving you more than i can even explain.
i miss you jacob.

We just wanted y'all to know that we are thinking about you today. Although today is an especially hard day, we pray that you feel God's peace and love. May He continue to keep you in the palm of His hands. We know that little Jacob is smiling down at his family with pride.
In God's Love,
Brad and Jenny

Thinking about you today and everyday. I love you.

We miss you Jacob. I love you. We miss you. We went to the beach today and thought about you. We wish you were at the beach with us.

As always, but especially today, Jacob, you are in my thoughts! I'm sure you are so very proud of your parents for the efforts they are making to help find a cure for SMA so that no other family has to endure what your family has. Jacob, you have definitely made an impact on my life and I thank you. I applaude your parents, Shaina and Adi, and your sister, Jordan, and your brother, Max. Linda and Jay

Our thoughts and prayers for strength are with you today and always. Jacob, we hope you know that your being, and spirit has showed so many what love and courage are all about.
Love, Jolie, Murray, Olivia and Ethan.

sweet brave Jacob Isaac, two years without him and the void does not diminish nor does the pain. let His light guide you and protect you! we are with you and by you alway! our deepest love to you all.
love and hugs,
aba ve-ema

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all today and everyday. I know Jacob is smiling down on you and is SO proud of the progress you have made in helping other families and the work you have accomplished in his honor. And I know the stars will twinkle a little brighter this evening.All our love,
Randi & Adam Jablin

We are thinking of all of you! We send huge hugs and lots of love.
Love,
Debbie, Doug, Isaac and Ethan

Dear Jacob, Uncle Oren loves you! 10-1-2004

We are thinking of all of you today and always. We love you all and will always be here for you. We miss you, Jacob. xoxox
love, Hayley, Joe, jacob and Sammy

Thinking of all of you today and sending our love. Love, Jillian, Lee and Emily

Dear Jacob- We Love You and Miss You...You will always have a very special place in our hearts.
XOXOXO Rikki,Rob,Lindsay&Emmy

Just wanted you to know that I'm thinking of you today and sending you my love...

To my newly found cousins Shaina, Adi, Jordan Sky and Max
Your courage is truly a gift, as Jacob was. My son's name is Shai, and my daughter is Maya (matnat Ya).
I hope to meet you sooner, rather than later
Hanita

Dear Shaina and Adi,
I have been watching some of the Jerry Lewis telethon this weekend and could not stop thinking about you and Jacob. My donation to this wonderful cause is long over due. Wishing you and your family the best. Congratulaions on your recent addition! CHI

thinking of you

Dear Family:

It is wonderful to see pictures of Max looking so happy and Jordan getting so big. I am still in awe of you, you are amazing in your dedication and compasion to the cause. Take care, love to all.

Susan and Anabel

there truely are no words to describe how beautiful your story is on fsma. you guys amaze me over and over again. i hope you both know that jacob is very lucky to have the both of you as parents. i hope i am half the mom to my children one day that shaina is to hers.

i love you guys so much

jessica

I love the pictures from the conference. Each child is more beautiful than the next.

You guys continue to be an inspiration to us all.

What a beautiful tribute to Jacob! My friend's daughter, Savanna Rush, has SMA. We are gearing up for the 2nd Annual Odds on a Cure to raise money for FSMA. God Bless!!!

i was just thinking about all of you and wondering how you are doing. it looks like you are keeping busy and doing well in the world. send my love to everyone!
xoxo

Happy 4th of July!
I love you guys.

dear family
the photos are precious. they bring back poignant memories from last year. i recognize many of those beautiful children and remember how their spirits just filled the air. i love you all, mom

Greetings Rappoport family! I just wanted to tell how happy I am to have finally met you in person -- all four of you! The conference was slighly overwhelming due to it being our first, but very fulfilling! The boys were watching over us, that's for sure. Adi, congrats on your position on the board! We know you will do greater things for SMA than you ever imagined. You all continue to be an inspiration to us! keep in touch! Kathy and Jeff

I agree with aunt jessica..GREAT PICS!
I especially love the one with the little girl wearing Jacob's Run Walk and Roll shirt!!

the pictures are beautiful. i love you guys so much. jacob is always in my thoughts. cant wait to see you this weekend

love you
jess

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan and Max,
Sending you all our love and hope that the SMA Conference in Chicago goes well. You have touched so many families with your valiant efforts to teach others about this disease, provide support to families who are living with it each day and your determination to continue to fight for a cure so that one day no family will have to ensure this heartbreak.

Jacob is always in our thoughts and forever in our hearts!

The Jourdins

Oh, I forgot, Dr. Crawford also does real well with stronger Type 2 kids too! I've heard he's real good with them too.

Parents who use Dr. Crawford for Palliative Care will usually have good experiences with him. He is very good in that one area.

I just wanted to let you know that reading that you had a positive experience with Dr. Crawford means a lot to me. I have recently heard of several families that have not been pleased with how he dealt with their situations. I was beginning to wonder if I was some sort of blind idiot for being extremely comfortable with him. I am sorry and a bit ashamed that others see him in a bad light.
Thanks for all you do for the SMA community.

Thank you so much for such a beautifully written description of your son's life and struggles. To honor all the "little angels," I read a lot of children's stories, but yours is such an eloquent combination of the pain you and he suffered, and yet the amazingly positive outlook you are able to conjure up. I have no doubt that it's a daily struggle for your, yet reading about your love for Jacob and your gratitude for the precious moments you had with him and the lessons your learned from his incredible courage are uplifting. I admire your spirit and your wisdom. I hope that if I am ever faced with what I consider to be life's greatest challenge that I will have half the courage, the eloquence, and the grace as you have shown. I never met your son, but his short life has touched mine, and I won't forget him.

Hello Shaina.
Thanks for keeping up with my Jacob...yes we do have alot in common and it means so much to me that you have checked up on my Jacob.
Hugs to you, as you are a VERY special sole.
Love and best wishes Angela
http://www.caringbridge.org/canada/babyjacob

I love you guys so much
jess

Jacob we never met, but your parents are so nice and caring that you must be a lucky boy..with love, Deborah and Chris

Just thinking of you, Jacob, and your wonderful family.

shaina, adi, jordan, max, jacob in spirit
you are often on our minds and always in our hearts.....

You are always in my thoughts. I check this site once a week, it is in my outlook reminders. Sending love to all. Susan and Anabel

Thanks for sharing your story with us. You educated me on an illness I knew nothing about. Jacob was a very lucky child to have such loving parents and family who could deal with his crisis without losing site of what really is important....the love of a child and the special gifts they send us when we take time to notice.

April's issue of Family Circle features an article about Garett Lewis, and his family. Garett is a 21 year old who has been living with SMA. His mother, Audrey founded The Families of SMA shortly after Garett's diagnosis. It's a touching and inspiring article. It is also wonderful to see that through articles such as this, more awareness of SMA is being spread. As always, Jacob, and your family remain in my thoughts.

i have been reading these stories and watching the videos it brought tears to my eyes jacob is in my heart and he really is a star i wish you the best of luck and good night jacob

A friend of mine; Angela has a son also named Jacob who was diagnosed with SMA type one Jan9/04. Because of our lack of resources here in Canada, Angela went to see Dr. Bach in Newwark NJ. He then diagnosed Jacob as a week type one. He too has also completly lost his swallow. Last week he had surgery to place the G-Tube as well as the GJ-Tube. They did them both at once. Jacob woke up in great spirits! We are hoping that I will be going to Toronto today to pick them up and bring them home. We all miss them so much here. I think that what you are did and are still doing for SMA is amazing! I think that there are a lot of people out there who would become bitter, especially if their child lost to the monster SMA. I recently held a silent auction with a dance to raise support as well as funds for the manchines and we raised close to $7000.00. I know from the experience that is very hard work but so rewarding in the end. I have never been envolved in anything like this so to see the grand total was extremly satisfying. I am hoping to plan another event soon for June, maybe a walk or something along those lines. You guys are doing a great job! Keep up the good work. Angela is part of the SMA support group and she does receive info from FSMA, however if you have any ideas for the walk or just want to talk to her you can email her at angetrick@hotmail.com or myself at shannon_n_graham@hotmail.com.
Thanks again

Hi! I would like to help with the run but I don't live in Boynton Beach. Can I give out papers on the run?

we miss you jacob.

i havent written in awhile, just wanted to say hi, and i love you. thinking of you guys all the time

i love you
jess

just wanted to say hi and tell you guys that i loved max's baby announcement! thank you for sending one to me and jonathan.
love,
rebecca

I'm so sorry about your lost. I can only Imange how hard this is for you. I just noticed you live in Smith Farm, I live right across from you in Lake Charlestion :-) You are in my prayers daily.
Cara Copeland

I just finished reading Jacobs story and my heart breaks for you. My son Vincent who was diagnost with a rear form of Intestinal Pseudo obstruction, was also operated on by, I believe the same wonderful Dr. Karp, we love that man. Congratulations on the new baby, I saw your story on the news tonight. God Bless, Sabine

we love you!

Just wanted everyone to know that the second annual "Ultimate Dodge Ball" tournament benefiting SMA and hosted by my fraternity Phi Delta Theta will take place this weekend. This years tournament is promising to be even better then last years. I am excited for Jordan and Adi to come up and see me and support the event that me and my brothers have been working so hard on. I miss Jacob so much and I am so happy to be able to do this in his memory. I will update everyone after the event.

I want to let you know you are in my prayers. I saw the address for your website on TV. We too, lost a daughter to SMA at the age of 22 months. Taylor was a wonderful little girl. I wish you the best in your effort to raise funds to fight against SMA.

Dear shaina, adi and Jordan,
Mazal tov, we are so happy for you and wish you all the best in your future.
Max you are so lucky to have such a wonderful family.
We love you all

Hi There!
Congratulations!!! We love you! Sending big hugs and warm wishes!

Beth and Ben told us about the wonderful addition to your family. We wish you all the best and hope to actually make it down there for one day for one of your wonderful fundraisers. Mazel Tov on the birth of Max.

I love you guys so much....it was so good to see you guys and meet jacob and jordan's little brother. Max is amazing. Jacob did a great job in picking the angel with the tender heart. I love you guys and cant wait to see you in a few weeks
love
aunt jessica

It was such a joy to meet Max on Sunday! What a beautiful baby boy! How lucky he is to be born into such an amazing family. I am sure that Jacob is smiling from above at the newest addition to his family.

I love you guys so much. I know Jacob is so happy to be a big brother. I cant wait to meet Max.
I love you
jessica

Welcome Max... a lucky boy to be born into such a wonderful family. Congratulations to everyone.

CONGRATS!!!.. We can't wait to meet our newest nephew max! We love you guys so much!!!!!!!!!!

We just wanted to let you know that we are thinking about you! Max, you are a very lucky little boy, having been born into such a wonderful family!

congratulations! max is so lucky to be born into such a truly wonderful family. i can't wait to meet him and see all of you!
love,
rebecca

Congratulations on your new little addition! He is a very lucky little boy to be part of such a wonderful family. Mazel Tov, and best wishes. Much love, Sharon Cooper

Congratulations on your new baby boy:) Jordan and Jacob must be so proud! I am so happy for you all and wish you nothing but the best! I can't wait to meet Max and watch Jordan play with her new friend. Joe showed me a picture of Jordan holding him and he is adorable...as is Jordan of course!!
With much love-Susie

We are so blessed with a healthy baby boy!!! I can't wait to meet Max. I love you guys and I will see you soon.

Congratulations,

Jacob's brother has arrived.

We love you,

Mike and Christi

Thinking of you!

jacob, you and sawyer taught me something new today, but i wouldn't have believed it unless i had taken the time to slow down and listen to what God reveals to me through you guys. jacob, i have been reading a lot about heaven lately, and well, it was interesting to me to learn that once you and sawyer left us for heaven, God tells us in his word that three things happened: your affirmation, your promotion, and then your celebration. i wish i could have heard the angels sing when you arrived. i wish i could have heard God himself say, "Well done, thy good and faithful servants!" And once the angels carried you over the river jordan into eternity, you both received a promotion, or a great responsibility. jacob, i can only imagine that you are in charge of butterflies and a galaxy of shooting stars. (sawyer, you are in charge of swimming lessons in the river of life.) and finally, when you got to heaven, i wish i could have heard the celebration and the invitation to share in your Creator's presense. i can only imagine, but one day, jacob, i know we will finally meet. you are already a big brother to so many of us. we love you.

Just wanted to write a little note to let you know that I love you and I am thinking about you all the time.
I cant wait to meet the new member of our family, I know jacob is smiling down on us all the time. I love the sunsets, rainbows and butterlies that he brings to us. I love you guys so much
love
jessica

This is the first time I am able to get to a computer. I wish so bad I was able to write a letter on Jacobs birthday. I have been thinking about you all a lot lately. On the 27th I was at the beach, I sat on the sand and watched the most beautiful sunset, I thanked jacob for painting such a pretty picture on his birthday. I then sent up 2 balloons one for jacob and one for sawyer so of course they could play together. I miss jacob everyday and talk to him often. Shaina and adi you both are inspirations to me. I only hope to one day be the parent that you both are to your children. I love you guys so much.
Happy birthday jacob.....you are missed tremendously
love
aunt jessica

Jacob, We were thinking of you and your family yesterday and remembering the joy we felt when we learned of your arrival two years ago. And even though you are no longer with us in body, your spirit has touched so many families and you in turn will live on forever in their hearts. Sending you birthday wishes, smiles and kisses. Love, Patti, AJ, Molly and Morgan

thinking about you guys today and everyday. I love you so much. Happy Birthday Jacob, I miss you.

I'm thinking of all of you today and was moved, as always, by all of the love on this site.

sending you lots of birthday hugs and kisses today.

we love you miss you.

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan, and Jacob,

Happy bithday, Jacob!
We hope you know that you are all in our hearts and prayers. You have our friendship and support always. We are always here for you and We love you.
Hayley, Joe, jacob and Sammy

Dear Jacob,
Happy Birthday sweetie pie! We miss you and love you! Last night we looked up at the beautiful starlit sky here in Sanibel and we thought of you. The stars were shining brighter than ever. You are a gift to us all. XOXOXOXO
Lots of love,hugs,and kisses,
Lisa,Lewis,& Adam

Dear Jacob-
Happy Birthday!!! We Love You and Miss You!!! Sending you lots of Hugs and Kisses.
Rikki, Rob, Lindsay & Emmy

happy birthday you beautiful
boy.
love, jolie, murray, olivia & ethan

happy birthday you beautiful
boy.
love, jolie, murray, olivia & ethan

happy birthday jacob. we miss you.

thinking of you always and today especially. sending love and light......

dear shaina, adi, jordan, the physical presence of jacob was missed beyond words. he, of course, was carried in my heart - as always.... along with the memory of the beautiful symbolic tribute rachel and josh so lovingly expressed for him. xoxoxoxo

We think about you every day.

Just writing to let you know how much I love you guys! See you soon.

As I read the story of your darling little boy, I struggle to hold back my tears. Unfortunately it is an all too familiar story for myself and my husband. What a wonderful tribute to your son and your family the jacob isaac rappoport Foundation is. I know he would be so proud of you.

i'm so glad the event was such a success! the pictures look wonderful - everyone looks so happy to be participating and helping. i really wish i could have gone! you guys are wonderful - keep up the amazing work.
love,
rebecca

Hi... Happy Turkey Day! I also want to let you know that the walk, run, & roll was amazing. We are so proud of you! We had a great time at the event. Can't wait to help again next year. We love you guys. Love, Lisa, Lewis, & Adam

I am so sorry we could not be at the walk-a-thon, as we on a family vacation. It sounds like it was very successful. Along with so many others, I remain amazed by your family. Congratulations.

I am so glad that I was able to attend the walk, run and roll last Sunday! Shaina and Adi--you both amaze me with all the time, work and love you have put into your foundation. After working on an AIDS walk this weekend I have even more appreciation for all that you did for planning your first walk-a-thon! It was such a huge success---I know that Jacob must be so proud:) I look forward to seeing you soon and also participating in many walks for SMA until there is a cure!

Hi Guys, We just wanted to tell you what a great day Sunday was and what a nice time we had. The running course was beautiful, more so because of the pictures of the kids you put up. Thank you for including our precious Ryan! All our love and support to the great efforts you are making. Regina

I think ourshootingstar foundation is a wonderful thing. It was nice talking to Shaina, finding out that someone else had gone through the same thing.It makes you feel not all alone.

It really touched me to see the love and dedication that you showed to your son.
Unfortunately, my daughter and her husband likewise have a child that has SMA. It is so painful to see the suffering not only with their beautiful baby girl, for the parents are suffering so much also.
To watch the video of your son was painful, seeing your son mirror so many of the same problems my grand daughter shares was so difficult to see. Yet, for once I did not feel like no one understood, for others are sharing the same sorrow.
They live close by his Mother who has been wonderful to come help and bring relief to them.I was able to come and spend a few weeks. The care of my grand daughter is sometimes overwhelming to this young couple, but Thank God, they love each other and their only child.

Hi Shaina,
Congratulations on such a successful event!
Take care,
Catherine

what a beautiful day in the park....brimming with warmth and love...a direct result of jacob's spirit which continuously touches all who knew and loved him, and all who now know of him....

what awesome pictures, I had such an amazing time at the walk. I came back to Orlando and all i could talk about is how wonderful you guys are and how lucky you are to have such amazing friends. I couldnt believe how many people came out to support such an amazing cause. It was truely amazing. I know Jacob was smiling down on all of us. All of his friends in heaven were. I love you guys so much and you continue to inspire me day after day
I love you
Jessica

Congrats! I heard that Sunday was great. Once again, you are doing a amazing job, Jacob would be proud. Thinking of you.

Love Susan and Anabel

Sunday was just amazing!!! Love, Jennifer

Hi Shaina and Adi
I just wanted to thank you for all you are doing to help find a cure for SMA. My mommy is typing this, but I told her what to say. One day there will be a cure for this awful illness that limits me so much. My mommy asked me to say an extra special prayer for that little guy that is growing in your tummy. I did. Hugs from me :) MR. Cole Webb

The fundraiser was incredible. I have said it before and I will say it again, Shaina and Adi- you are AMAZING. Shaina, your friends are awesome too! they are truly an unbelievable blessing. I had such a good time and it was definitely enjoyed by all. Thank you to all who attended! Can't wait until next year. ALSO- plans for the second annual dodge ball tournament hosted by my fraternity Phi Delta Theta are already under way. Of course all of the proceeds go to the Jacob Isaac Rappoport Foundation. More details to come. GREAT event last Sunday! I am so proud to be a part of our family. I love you!

congratulations on the great success of jacob's walk, run and roll. you and your family truly are inspirational. we love you. xoxox ps couldn't wait to read all about it!

Shaina and Adi, We want to tell you want an outstanding job you did yesterday. Every thing was perfect and no detail was missed. The love and warmth at the park was overwhelming and we know that Jacob is proud to have such wonderful parents,family and friends. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to particiapte in such a special event. Love, Jillian and Lee

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordan,
We're so happy that Jacob's Run, Walk and Roll was such a success. We had the best time. We know Jacob is very proud of his family. We Love You!!!
Rikki, Rob, Lindsay & Emmy

WOW!! What a FANTASTIC day yesterday!! I was so amazed at all of the wonderful activities for the kids--the 2 mile run was awesome!! and those "Pop Stars" were pretty impressive!! Watching all those children as they enjoyed the dancing and the music was very over whelming for me--I think your family and friends are just amazing and our family and friends always feel SO WELCOME at your events--THANK YOU FOR ALL THAT YOU DO!!! It is tough work doing all this fundraising and spreading the word--You have set quite an example for other families and we just love you guys--PS.. JORDAN is just ADORABLE!!!Love, The Freeman Clan & Kelly too!!:)

Congratulations on the success of the fundraiser! We had a great time! You guys did an amazing job planning it. Justin loved the petting zoo!

we wanted to let you know that we had a wonderful day today, but that we were also able to reflect on the children that we are helping and will help in the future. thank you for letting us be a part of it.
amy, dave and max novak

Thinking of you today! Wishing you good weather, lots of walkers, and a successful fundraiser to help find a cure for SMA. Shaina & Adi, you, your families and your friends are a continuing source of inspiration. You're all amazing. Have a great day! xoxoxo

Wishing you all the best tomorrow! Wish we could be there to walk, but we will be thinking of you! Enjoy and congratulations! David, Lisa, Jack, Savannah and Henry in spirit

Good Luck with the Event on Sunday. Sorry that Jay and I will not be able to attend as we are still in Colorado with our kids and Sage and Noah. I do have some pledges that I will forward to you next week.

The piece on the local news tonight was very well done, I thought. We are all looking forward to seeing you this weekend!

looking forward to a great turnout on sunday ! we know that jacob will be watching from above and smiling! all our love----lauren,mark,noah, justin, and ally

Hi-
Looking forward to the walk next Sunday. You all are truly amazing. We love you!
Love, The Birnbaums

Shaina just wanted to say congratulations on you new baby boy.May God bless you and your whole family.

Dear Jacob,
We love you and miss you every day.
XOXOXO The Michaelsons

Thanks for updating your website with the t.v. story follow-up. Again, I just want to say that your family is one of unbelivable courage and strength. Good luck with the event on 11/16. I'll definitely try to be there!
Linda

we just had the chance to see the story that was on the news. it was beautiful and just another reminder of how special jacob is and how special you all are for all that you are doing. we are proud to be your friends! all our love, lauren, mark, noah, justin and ally

jacob, we love you and we miss you best of all.

Jacob was so beautiful. I feel like I knew him. Friends have been calling all week, whenever your story is aired on Ch.5. Finally SMA is getting the attention it deserves. Thank you so much! Our daughter Margaret died three years ago of SMA. She was 5 months old. Her story is just like Jacob's. It was an incredible, unbelievable journey that was so heartbreaking, but also so wonderful in many ways. You expressed it so well. The pictures brought back such memories, especially the one of Shaina and Jacob on the floor. Henry and I look forward to seeing you at the walk. Thank you again.

I saw your story on the news this morning. My best wishes you your family. Thank you for sharing your story and for what you are doing to help others.

good morning guys. i saw the WPTV story. not a dry eye in the building. hopefully we moved some people to action! we'll continue plugging the event with more frequency with each passing week.

Just wanted to write a happy birthday note to Jordan. She is the best big sister(except for my sisters ofcourse)You light up a room, Jacob is very lucky to have a sister like you. Happy 4th birthday. I love you
love
aunt jessica

to jacob, i love you. i love you. i love you best of all. i miss you. i miss you.

Dear Shaina, Adi & Jordan, I can't tell you what an amazing family you are and how your strength helps me(& many others) to face this disease. Please know that you are not alone and all of our children will be responsible for saving the lives of THOUSANDS of little innocent, beautiful babies one day. We love & miss you Jacob. Love, Rob, Debbie & Payton

Thinking about you guys and sending you all my love. I love and miss Jacob so much. I have a picture of him hanging on a bulletin board in my office and everyone tells me how gorgeous he is. I am so proud of him and I am so proud of our family, especially Shaina and Adi. I love you...

Thinking about you this week and finally had time to get a note to you. I know Jacob, Charlie, Marshall and all the angels were taking special care of all of you. We are so blessed to have such wonderful guardian angels! Although I know your heart is still heavy, I hope your days are getting somewhat easier. Sending strength and comfort your way.

Dear Shaina, Adi, and Jordan-Sending love and strength to you and your families. We love you. xoxox Susie and Barry

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan and Jacob--

I have been thinking about you all day long. This is the first free moment I have had today and when I thought I would be able to put all my feelings down, I am completely numb. I can not imagine what you are all feeling and I so badly wish that I could do something to make that pain go away. I hope that today you were able to smile though when thinking of your beautiful boy. We, just like so many people who love you, have not stopped thinking of Jacob and his family. We miss you Jacob and hope that you can see us and know how much you are missed. All our love.....Lauren,Mark, Noah, Justin and Ally

dear shaina, adi, and jordan

i wish as all who love you do that i had the magic words to remove the pain. i wish as all who love you do that love could mend your broken hearts. i pray that the words of support and the hearts full of love that surround you this day and all days help ease your long and painful journey of grief.i am sending an abundance of love to you all today and everyday, shaina and adi,guiding stars,jordan, precious little dancing star, and our sweet prince, our angel, our shooting star, our jacob - forever a part of my heart and soul.........

Thinking of you guys today and wishing you strength and peace.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family today. I know that baby Jacob is smiling down on us. My love always, aunt Jodi

Dear Shaina, Adi, and Jordan, I am missing your beautiful Jacob today. I pray that you find continued strength today and always. I share your tears and understand that every passing day is not easy. I too will pray that your shooting star will come out at night to be with you in dreams (I know he will). Sending you love, hugs, kisses. Beth

As always, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Memories last forever -

Thinking of you all.
wishing you strength and peace today and always. You are in our thoughts and hearts.

love, jennifer,eric,
maddy & mason

Shaina, Adi, Jordan, Jacob and baby to be-

On this very emotional day, we just wanted you to know that we are thinking
of you more than usual. Nothing can be said or done to ease your pain but
we are always here to support you. Thanks you for letting us share in your
family. Jacob is a gift that has made all of us better people. Jordan's
personality and cheer can make anyone smile. Shaina and Adi, you are both
just incredible people. You are the perfect example of family. And to our nephew to
be, you are the luckiest little boy..to soon enter into such an incredible
circle, we can't wait to see what gifts you bring.

We love you

Dear Shaina,Adi & Jordan,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you today and always.XOXOXO!
Jacob, we miss you sweetie pie! We are so lucky for the times we shared together. You are a true inspiration!
Love, Lisa, Lewis & Adam

P.S. When I went to visit you today a beautiful yellow butterfly flew past me...I know it was you saying hello!I love you XOXOXO -Aunt Lisa

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordan,
Your family and especially Jacob is in my thoughts today. May your beautiful memories help confort you.

nothing that we can do or say will make this day or any day easier, but please know that we all love you and are thinking about you.

to jacob-
i hope you know how remarkable you are to have made such a difference in so many lives. we think and talk about you all the time. sending you lots of hugs and kisses today and every day.

love,

the blooms

Our thoughts and prayers are with you today. We look forward to honoring Jacob's legacy as we walk for a cure on November 16.
The Weingards

Shana, Adi & Jordan,

Thinking of you all- especially today and sharing your pain. I know Jacob is still very much alive in the hearts of every lucky person who got to know him and your beautiful family. Your ongoing strength is an inspiration for us all and I pray that every tear we all shed is one less that you all have to endure. All our love and prayers are with you today and forever. Randi & Adam Jablin

thinking of you today and always.

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan and Jacob,

We think of you often and still ache for your loss. Today, in particular, we are praying for you - that God will grant you peace and strength. Shaina, I read your message to Jacob this morning and, again, was moved to tears. We are so sorry that Jacob is not with you on earth anymore. We will pray for Jacob in heaven and ask that God bring him to you in your dreams every night.

All of our love,

Lew and Jen Minsky

dear shaina, adi, jordan and jacob, we are sending you prayers of strength and peace on this day. love, the izenwassers

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordan
You and your family are very much in our thoughts and prayers, especially today. I look at Jacob's picture every day on our refrigerator and smile at his beautiful face. I know that he is smiling down on all of you today and every day to get you through the difficult times.
Love Always,
The Jourdins

dear shaina, adi, jordan and jacob, we are sending you prayers of strength and peace on this day. love, the izenwassers

Shaina, Adi, Jacob, and Jordan,

Sending you strength, support, and of course, our frienship always. We are always here for all of you. We love you very much. We love you and miss you, Jacob.

Hayley, Joe, Jacob, and Sammy

This morning I went over to a lake and let 2 balloons go. I saw them go up in the air and disappear as if jacob grabbed them. I miss you so much Jacob. Shaina,what you wrote is so beautiful. Like always you and Adi express yourselfs so beautifully. I am thinking about you today and everyday. I cant imagine the pain you feel, but please know that I love you and miss you.
I have Jacob's smile imprinted in my heart. The times I spent with him will forever be my favorite memories. I love you Jacob, there is not a minute that goes by that you are not thought of.
I love you all so much
love
Aunt Jessica

Dear Jacob-
We love and miss you every day. You will always hold a very special place in our hearts. Sending you lots of hugs, kisses, rainbows, pinwheels and butterflies.
We Love You-
Rikki, Rob, Lindsay & Emmy

Shaina, Adi, Jacob, & Jordan, - We are thinking about you today and always. Jacob- we miss you.
All our love, Isaac, Jer, & Steph

dear jacob...

one year ago today you went to heaven. one year ago today you left us with pictures and videos and memories and broken hearts. i know that we are still healing, but everyday-- a million times a day-- i find myself wishing my life was different, wondering "if only," and thinking about what we should be doing with you. instead i can only hope to see you in my dreams. i miss you more than i ever dreamt i could. i know you are free doing all the things that little boys should do. i know you are laughing and running and playing (and jordan knows you are eating lots of ice cream and going to the beach a lot). i wish so much i could see it. i could write a novel about all the things i miss about you and the list would never be complete.

there are times when i think we might be "okay" and then something trivial happens- something that i wouldn't expect to touch me so deeply- and i get hit like a ton of bricks and our grief is as fresh as the first day we had to live without you.

it feels like yesterday that i held you, kissed you, sang to you, read to you, comforted you, smelled your "stinky hands," touched your soft skin, kissed your mushy cheeks, ate breakfast with you, rocked you, saw you smile. i can't believe it has been a year, and i can't believe how many more years i will have to wait to see you again. wait for me, sweet boy.

i love you more each day.

love, mommy

We think of all of you everyday. Please know that tomorrow we will be remembering Jacob and how special he is to your family and how much we have all learned from you. We love you and wish you much nachas in the new year.
Lots of love,
Debbie, Doug, Isaac and Ethan

Just visiting...gathering information on the walk! looking forward to mobilizing the community for this event. stay tuned! :-)

dear shaina,adi,and jordan, my heart is with you.

and to jacob, who i will never stop missing.

kisses and hugs.........

What an amazing tribute to Jacob. This website is absolutely beautiful. Thank you for sharing him with us.

Always thinking of you-
Megan and Terry Piper

dear jacob,
i love you. i love you. i love you. i miss you.

I am a friend of Robin's and I think this fooundation is a wonderful thing. It keeps you close and maybe make someone else road smoother. Good luck on the new baby and G-d Bless

I have been thinking about you all so much lately. I hope you are well (the new baby included) and are happy. I am excited about attending the walk for SMA this November and seeing you all...it has been a while! I was sorry to not be there for the service for Jacob a couple weeks ago. I was in Tampa with family (actually visiting a bunch of newborns) but my thoughts were with your whole family and my prayers as always were with Jacob. Give Jordan a hug for me.

Just thinking of you and of Jacob. The ceremony on Monday was beautiful. We miss Jacob every day. Love you so much!!
Lisa, Lewis, & Adam

Just wanted to write a little note to let you know how beautiful and touching Monday was. I miss Jacob everyday. I know he watches everyone all the time and knows how much he has brought to this world. I love being able to come down and spend time with you guys and jordan. She truely is a butterfly herself, beautiful and free. She is the sunshine and the stars. I feel lucky everyday to be a part of this family.
I love you guys
love aunt jessica

As always, your words are so beautiful. Jacob must have been especially proud and smiling even greater upon you both, on Monday. His memory continues to touch my heart everyday.

Just wanted to say how beautiful and touching monday was. We love you guys so much, and miss jacob everyday.

on monday we had jacob's unveiling ceremony. we brought him lots of pinwheels, released butterflies and said prayers. here is what adi and i read to jacob.

to our beautiful gift- jacob,

we are trying to learn how to live without you- but this is a lesson we will study our whole lives, and never get used to, or figure out the answer to. in some ways, time makes things harder-- in that time has removed our numbness and exposed our pain even more.
we miss you so much still, everyday-- a million times a day. we see you painting us sunsets, sliding down rainbows, flying on the wings of butterflies and in the eyes of other children. we feel you in soft breezes and hear you in waves at the beach and in your sister's laughter. it brings us comfort to know that you surround us, and that you are waiting for us. one day, sweet boy, we know we will meet again. today, we want to send you love in return for everything you have given us both in life and still.
we want to give you love with kisses and hugs,
but we have to send it with our thoughts.
we want to hold you in our arms,
but we have to hold you in our hearts.
we want to see your bright eyes sparkle and squint as you smile,
but we have look inside our memories to do that.
we want to see your name on birthday invitations, cakes,
school projects and baseball uniforms,
but we have to see it in stone.
we would give anything to have you back and to take away your sma.
we would do it all over again with you, our precious gift. because of you we are more compassionate, more appreciative of joy and more sensitive to sadness. because of you we hurt more intensely, but we love more deeply. because of you we are better parents, spouses, children and friends. we are forever grateful for you. today, like every day, we honor you and memorialize you. we love you and miss you more each day.

love, mommy and aba

I can't believe that it has been 11 months since that dreaded phone call that we all knew was coming, but was no less painful to hear. Jacob left his mark on all of us in so many ways. I consider myself much more understanding, compassionate and sensitive than I was before knowing him and you. His lessons of life and love will never be forgotten and he continues to be a great teacher.

I also believe that Jacob is all around us. The morning after I heard the news you were pregnant, I saw a rainbow, the first rainbow that I had seen in a long time. I knew that it was Jacob letting me know that everything was going to be alright with this baby. Today, when Jordan was chasing the butterflies, I truly felt that she was not chasing them alone, that her beloved brother Jacob was right there with her.

The pain that you are experiencing is unimaginable, but your ability to express it in ways that so many can't, reflects a special quality that few people have. I know that I say this often, but your family (Shaina, Adi, Jordan and Jacob) is made up of remarkable people.

Thank you for the gift of Jacob and for the gift of yourselves. We love you.

For so many years, I have watched the Jerry Lewis Telethon and and I have donated money towards a cure for MDA. This year, however, I am watching with a new meaning of the many diseases...sma, in particular. I can't help but think of your precious boy, Jacob. Shaina and Adi, you are to be commended for all your efforts in the raising of funds so that sma can be cured or prevented! I applaud you!!

Hey guys! It was wonderful spending some time with you last Saturday. Jordan is ready to get her license!Shaina- You look amazing! We know how excited you must be to see your "little cutie of a guy" tomorrow! Thinking of you always! We love and miss you- Isaac, Jer, & Steph

Hi Rappaports!
It was so nice to visit the site and see the great pics and read about all the wonderful things going on. I would love to walk in November!
Lots of love,
Lauren Rabb

Hi-
We had fun playing with Jordan today! Love you all!
Lisa & Adam

Dear Jacob, Shaina, Adi,Jordan and both of your families,

MAZEL TOV!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's been a while since I've written, though I check it often, But when I read that you were pregnant I flipped with joy for all of you. And then when I continued to read on and saw that you are blessed again with another boy, well that was the iceing on the cake. I wish I could jump through the computer and give you guys a great big huge hug, so when I see you at school, get ready. Well, Jacob just continues bringing everyone gifts. Jordan, I can't wait to meet your baby brother.

I am soooooo happy for you guys. This is Jacob special gift to you both. You gave so much to him and others with sma, this is his way of letting you know he loves you and thanks you for all that you do in his honor.
G-d bless you, your families and of course, new baby. Love you guys. xoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Hey guys! We were just thinking about you and Jacob and wanted to say hello. Shaina, we hope that you are feeling good today with your pregnancy and still enjoying rotesserie chicken! We can't wait to see you in a few weeks. We miss you all!

Congratulations!
We heard the wonderful news and we are thrilled!
There is always room in your life for more love and happiness.
Our best wishes are with you and your family.

You have a great site! I see I have some work to do to get Sarah's site up to your level hu? :-) I read your story and it made me cry. It is so like our own story with Sarah. Thanks so much for your work on this site. You have done a great job. Lyn

We miss you Jacob!!!

Sending our love
today
and
everyday!!!!

Thinking about you today and always. I love you guys so much.
Love,
jess

WOW! ANOTHER BABY BOY TO ADD MORE LOVE TO YOUR FAMILY. JACOB MUST BE SMILING DOWN ON YOU ALL! MAZEL TOV!

hi shaina, adi, and jordan...MAZEL TOV on your wonderfully exciting news!!! this is truly an amazing gift from jacob. i miss you guys and i'm thinking of you!!

love,
rachel

We are so excited about the great news and we are so glad that you two enjoyed your anniversary weekend. Jacob has truly sent you a special gift. The new baby is so lucky to have you as his family. Mazel Tov! We love you and send lots of hugs & kisses your way!
Love,
Lisa, Lewis & Adam

Mozel Tov!! We are sooo happy for you and your family. You deserve happiness and in less than 9 months you will get a lot more of it!
Love to all,
Carrie, Dave & Jamie

Congrats!!!!!!!!!!! I am so thrilled for you. Jacob would be so proud of his parents for sharing their love with yet another child. Lot of Mazel,

Love Susan and Anabel

Mazel Tov Shaina, Adi and Jordan!! What exciting news!!!
Congrats!!
Love,Loren Robins

This is the first timeI have been near an internet since I heard the wonderful news. I couldnt wait to write. I too saw a rainbow on sat, it was the most beautiful rainbow I have ever seen, then later that night I was at a show that someone sang somewhere over the rainbow. I knew this was a gift from Jacob, I could just see him jumping for joy at the thought of beening a big bro. I love you guys so much. Hope you had a wonderful anniversary. I was thinking about you guys all day yesterday.

I love you guys so much
love Jessica

i saw a rainbow yesterday, the first rainbow i had seen in a long time, and thought maybe it was a smile from above and a sign of only happy things for you. happy anniversary.

thinking of jacob today and everyday.

Congratulations on your next baby boy Shaina and Adi!!! He has big shoes to fill. I am so happy for you and I am sure Joran is thrilled too! All my love and best wishes to you all.

congratulations! this new baby doesn't know how lucky he is to be entering into such a wonderful family.
lots of love,
rebecca

Mazel Tov! We are thrilled to hear your good news! We are so happy for all of you!
Love,
The Siffs

shaina, adi, and jordan- we are so thrilled and happy for all of you! what wonderful news! the joy in your voice when you shared the news yesterday was just magnificent! you put a huge smile on my face and what a way to end the week. we hope that you and adi have a very special anniversary. i am sure that jordan is thrilled to have a new addition and we know that jacob is smiling with delight at the news! mazel tov and we wish you only the best! love-lauren, mark, noah, justin and ally

Happy Anniversary - Shaina and Adi...may you have many years of love and happiness.

We're thrilled to hear your amazing news! Congratulations! You are an inspiration. We look forward to seeing you at the walkathon.

Thinking and praying for good things to come!

We are so happy for all of you!
Kristin, Dan and Mr. Cole

Shaina, the smile in your voice yesterday was truly contagious. We are so overjoyed with the news of a baby Rappoport on the way!!! We send you continued love and strength.

Big hugs and big kisses.

Love,

Beth, Steve & Sam

Mazel Tov!!! We are all so happy that you are pregnant with a healthy baby.
-Julie, Todd and Sage

Mazel Tov! What wonderful news! We could not be more thrilled for your family!

I usually check this site EVERYDAY, but somehow I din't yesterday. But, early this a.m., when I checked this beautiful tribute to Jacob, I received wonderful news from you. Jay and I couldn't be happier for you and for big brother, Jacob, and big sister, Jordan. Shaina, you always said you wanted to fill a home with lots of children! You and Adi are certainly an inspiration to all those who love you. Mazel Tov

Tonight we were told the best news we have ever heard, so many happy tears came to our eyes. We can't express how excited we are! What another amazing child you will have. Please give yourselves a big hug and kiss from all of us. We can't wait to see you in August. Jordan and Jacob, congratulations on soon being a big sister and a big brother. We love and miss you guys so much! With Love, Isaac, Steph, and Jer

Mazel Tov to you all. This is the best news ever. Murray has always felt that he had a special guardian angel in his big sister that he never had the blessing of knowing. Almost two years later we know that she always watches over him and keeps him safe is truly confirmed. Your new baby boy as well as Jordan have your own guardian angel to watch over you. Jacob has a special job. wishing you all happiness and the warmest blessings life has to offer.

we are so excited and happy for you. we can't wait to meet jacob's little brother. what a great day!!!!!

love,

the blooms

Dear Shaina, Adi, and Jordan,

We love you and are thrilled for you and your families! We couldn't be happier for you today!!!
all our love, Hayley, Joe, Jacob, and Sammy

There are no words to express how happy and excited we are for you. Sending lots of hugs and kisses. Mazel Tov!!!
Rikki, Rob, Lindsay & Emmy

what a wonderful day! we couldn't be happier. congratulations!!!! we love you

jacob is going to be a big brother!!!!!! we are expecting a HEALTHY, SMA FREE baby boy in early february!
love, shaina and adi

jacob is going to be a big brother!!!!!! we are expecting a HEALTHY, SMA FREE baby boy in early february!
love, shaina and adi

Dear Shaina & Adi,
Our love and prayers are always with you. XOXOXO!
Jordan - We had fun with you at Wendy's tonight!
Jacob - We love you and miss you so much!
Love,
Lisa, Lewis, & Adam

I want to say that I am very touched by your story of Jacob, I am a mother of 2 healthy children, young adults now. My sons name is Jacob(23) and my daughter's name is Jordyn(19). Just wanted to share this. I also am a teacher of a child with sma 2. My thoughts are with you and your family

Sorry, that first message got messed up:) Anyway, I am writing from New York where I am visiting with family (on my mothers side) whom I have not seen since she passed away in 92 from breast cancer. As time goes by here and I continue to honor my mother (whom I love more than ever)by learning all about her and her family history through photos, old letters of hers, meeting relatives that she grew up with, hearing stories and visiting the places she spent time at, I thought of you and Jacob. Now I know the loss of a mother and the loss of a son are quite different but I found and read a little book here that just touched me and made me think of you all some more. It is called, A Short Guide to living a Happy Life, and it's by Anna Quindlen. It's not the best book even written but it just moved me to send you some passages from it that you might appreciate: she writes,"It is so easy to waste our lives, our days, our hours, our minutes. It is so easy to exist instead of live." She then talks about how when tragity strikes (in her case the death of her mother to ovarian cancer when she was 19) your life all the sudden becomes split into "before" and "after". However, it wasn't just before her mothers death and after but rather as she puts it "the dividing line between seeing the world in black and white, and in technicolor. The lights came on for the darkest possible reason." It was then that she started to really live. This particular part I just found to be so true. I hope that you all are doing well and that you two are continuing to cope with your great loss. I also hope that you are able to perhaps take in the little things in life more...that's atleast one good thing that can come out of this. You all continue to amaze me with your strengh and determination to honor Jacob the way he desirves to be honored and remembered and to fight for your cause. You are inspirational to me and many others I am sure:) Take care, hope to see you all soon. Give little Jordan a hug for me!

I love you Jacob.
I love you Jordan.

i love you jacob

i love you jacob

i love you jacob

Just a note to tell you how much I love you guys and how special you are to me. You are definitely making Jacob very proud. I know that I am very proud!! I love you SO much!

we love you and miss you

thinking about you and loving you all everyday. But especially on days like today. I love you guys so much and I cant wait to walk for a cure.
love
jessica

shaina, adi, jordan, sending love and very special thoughts today. you remain my shining stars. xoxoxo

Hi Shaina, Adi & Jordan,

What a beautiful website!!! We appreciate all you continue to do in memory of Jacob and all of the children who have lost their battle with SMA and for those, like our Jennifer, who are living with SMA. You are an inspiration to all of us!!

Love,

Jim, Sue, Michelle & Jennifer

shaina and adi,
i have been wanting to check the site ever since you and i spoke the other night. i know that when we spoke, you said the weekend was such a mixture of emotions. what you told me though, about the money helping so many people attend, well i wanted to cry right there on the phone. i wanted to cry happy tears because words can not express what being able to attend that conference meant to someone. it must have been a great feeling for you both as well. the children in the pictures were beautiful and hopefully one day there will be a cure and the pictures will be of them walking and playing. jacob must have been smiling down at all of you that weekend. jordan looked as though she brought a lot of joy to the children and families as well. mark and i think of all you all the time and you all have changed the way i view life.

Shaina,Adi&Jordan-
I just wanted to let you know that I think about Jacob and miss him every day.
Love You- Rikki

It has been awhile since I have been able to check his sight, but there isnt a day that goes by that I dont think about you all. I talk to jacob al the time and continue to kiss him goodnight every night. I miss him, I look at my many pictures of him all the time. His eyes and smile brighten my day. I looked at all the pictures from the convention, and while I know the weekend was probably filled with all different emotions, I could tell that everyone of those children are loved very much. I love thier eyes and how expressive they are. I pray everyday that a cure is found soon. Seeing Jordan with all those children brought a tear to my eye. She is such a special girl, she truely is a star. I love you guys so much. You are inspirations to everyone you meet

love
jessica

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordan.
As i read your message i wanted to remind you that josh and i will continue to be there for you guys, in any capacity that you need us. We love you very much.
We also wanted to let you know how beautiful and full of life jordan is. Seeing her in her flower girl dress brought me unimaginable joy. We know that jacob is watching his big sister, and will be next to her in spirit while she walks down the aisle on my wedding day. I love you guys SO much.

this past weekend we went to the families of spinal muscular atrophy conference in washington, d.c.

it was difficult, uplifting, bittersweet, sad - a bag of mixed emotions. last year we went with jacob as newly diagnosed parents. this year, we went with jordan as newly bereaved parents. what a difference a year makes. we found the "healing process" sessions very helpful. it's comforting to be part of a community where there is no need for long explanations to discuss what really matters. jordan had a great time. she played in the children's room and made a lot of new friends. we made a lot of new friends (both big and small) as well.

the children affected with sma that we spent time with are such sparks of light. i wish you all could meet them. their beautiful faces, wise eyes and warm personalities all confirm the necessity of our efforts to find the cure they so desperately need. they are each miracles in their own right, but they need another one (please check the photo gallery in the next couple of days for some great pictures). we were recognized and honored for all of our fundraising efforts thus far- and we know that we owe that to all of you. we thank you, but most importantly- the children thank you. we know that nothing will bring our jacob back, but we can and we WILL be a part of making a cure happen. we know that this is jacob's legacy.

while the conference was difficult, we would not have missed it for anything. there are no words to describe how much we miss jacob everyday. we are who we are because of him. we do what we do because of our love for him. we know he is with us, giving us the strength to face each day. our sma experience has made us look at life differently. we know what really matters and what is insignificant. thank you jacob, for all the gifts you have left us. we are brokenhearted, but our will and drive to fight sma is strong. thank you all, for helping us in our fight.

I hope you know that I think of you so often. But at holidays, I think of you even more and wonder how you are really doing. I imagine how unbearably hard each day must be to get through. And I just don't know how you do it. I see your vitality as a sign that Jacob is in heaven sending you strength and courage. As I spread the word last summer during SMA awareness month, I shared Jacob's story with many friends. They continue to ask me how you are doing, and I send their collective thoughts and prayers to you. I just wanted to say that I love and respect you guys so much. And I miss you a lot too. And I think of Jacob more often than you know, more often than I say...whenever I see mylar balloons in the grocery store checkout line, when I see shooting stars in books, and of course when I look up at my bulletin board and see my very favorite picture of Jacob's beautiful smile and expressive eyes as he gets a smooch from his gorgeous big sister.

Sending you all the love in the world plus a little bit more.

Love,

Beth

I could not sleep so I decided to go on the web site and see what was going on. As I scrolled through the entries from the beginning to now I was reminded of so many memories of Jacob. I think about Jacob all of the time and I miss him so much. Adi and Shaina you are the best parents in the world and I love you. Adi, Jordan and Jacob could not have asked for a more caring and devoted father than you. On Father's Day I know that Jacob was smiling down from heaven and thanking you for all the joy that you brought to his life. I just wanted to write to let you know that I am thinking about you and that I love you guys both very much.

Adi, Happy Father's Day. Your Shooting Star Jacob is smiling down on you. Jordan is smiling, too. As always, I think of you and Shaina with much love.

adi, we love you soooo much and we are thinking of you today with all our heart. xoxo

Dear Adi-
Jordan and Jacob are so fortunate to have such a wonderful Aba. Your very special "Shooting Star"
will be shining extra bright today. Lots of love and support on this Father's Day.
The Michaelson Family

dear adi,

Jacob and Jordan are very blessed to have such a wonderful person as a father. We are sending you lots of love and strength today and always.

I just got finished reading your journal, you are very strong people, and your 2 children are very lucky. God Bless all Four of you.

It's been a while since I have made a post, but I think about Jacob everyday. The first thing I see when I get to work every morning is his face, his chubby cheeks..staring at me with his big eyes.

Recent events have evoked even more thoughts and feelings lately about Jacob as well as Shaina, Adi and Jordan. You guys never cease to amaze me..your strength, your courage, your dedication to your family and your cause is remarkable.

Rachel and I will always be there for you guys..as family and as friends. We will always support your efforts and we will always do anything we can to make our nephew proud.

We love you.

thinking of you --sending love. xoxox

Thinking of all of you a lot lately and hoping things are going well. Jacob's site continues to be a source of inspiration - a beautiful tribute to your special shooting star. You're always in our thoughts and prayers.

Love,

Laurie, Mark & our sweet little Marshall (in spirit)

It has been quite a while since I have visited here. Today, more than ever, I was thinking of Jacob. Maybe because there was a movie on with the song in the background "Somewhere over the rainbow". Every time I hear the song I think of Jacob. Silly enough, the tv junkie that I am, I would always think of Jacob during American Idol. So many people chose to sing that beautiful song and it always brought a smile and tear to my face. Jacob, I know that you must be smiling too knowing that you are so loved and thought of. I just wanted to say that as always, you all are in my thoughts.

Thinking of you and Jacob today and always.
XOXOXO Rikki

Hi Shaina, Adi and Jordan,(& angel Jacob) I think about your family all the time and I am sending out lots of love to your entire family--and special hugs to all the angels in heaven.Love, Rob, Deb & Payton

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordan,
I heard "Somewhere over the Rainbow" yesterday and as always I thought of Jacob. It's been a while since I've written, but you are in my thoughts often. As Adi wrote, I know this month is filled with difficult reminders of your journey with Jacob last year. My wish for you is that the beautiful moments you shared with Jacob during his short time here on earth help get you through those days, hours and moments. I know Jordan must be an incredible healing source for you both. Molly and I saw a rainbow last week and it made me think of your "little sunshine". To me, that sight will always be a sign of Jacob letting us know that he is fine, and hoping his loved ones are too. Sending you all much love. Patti, Adlai & Molly

Shaina - Happy Mother's Day

Dear Shaina-
Jordan and Jacob are so very lucky to have such a wonderful mommy. I'm sure Jacob is giving you extra special hugs and kisses today. Sending you lots of love and support on this Mother's Day. XOXOXO Rikki

Shaina, Adi and Jordan -Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. You continue to be a source of inspiration.
Jessica, Josh and Justin

Hi Shaina & Adi,

Just dropping by to say hello and tell you how wonderful your site is. I love all your pictures! Sending you hugs and hoping you have a great day.

Dear Shaina, Adi, & Jordan,
Sending you lots of extra love and hugs today! I know it has been a while since I've checked in on the website but I want you to know that I think about you and your beautiful Jacob every day. You continue to be a true inspiration! Thank you for all that you share with us each day. I love you all so much ... you are an amazing family! I miss you and love you Jacob ... XOXO!
Love, Lisa

Once again, thank you, Adi, for sharing your thoughts with all of us. I pray that G-d gives you, Shaina, Jordan and the entire family the strength to continue your fight to find a cure for SMA. Jacob is in my thoughts daily. He was a lucky guy to have had such a wonderful family.

sending you lots of love and strength today and everyday

I happened to stop by today and was fortunate enough to read your message. Our stories are so very similar. I recall that surreal feeling all too well. And I also remember a knumbing feeling, and wondering when we would wake from this nightmare. Charlie was loved by two older sisters, and trying to find the right words to describe to them what was going to be happening to their little brother was almost our biggest challenge. Until the day he entered heaven, they continued to ask when he would be able to play in the sandbox with them. They just never fully understood. Just yesterday my mature 8 year old said that sometimes when she remembers Charlie, she almost cries, but then she thinks of him in heaven with no machines, medicines, or doctors, and she gets a big smile. "That's a good thing, Mom."

Anyway, I just wanted you to know that you are not alone in your journey. Thank you, once again, for sharing your story and touching so many lives with your very special Shooting Star.

Kathy and my star in heaven Charlie
www.caringbridge.org/mn/charlie

Hi everyone. It's been a while since Shaina or I have posted a personal message. We've been observing a slew of anniversaries lately, mostly bad. Tomorrow (May 6th) it will be one year to the day that we received Jacob's diagnosis. Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Jacob will never crawl or walk. He'll slowly lose the ability to swallow. Your son probably won't live to see his first birthday. It's no mistake. There's no cure. I'm sorry.

It's one of the days that I frequently revisit in my mind. It was a Monday. The doctor's office called us that previous Thursday to tell us that Jacob's doctor wanted to meet with us. I (being an optimist at the time) thought that all of the tests had come back negative, so we needed a strategy session for what's next.

We dropped Jordan off at school that morning, and then we met Shaina's dad (Barry) at the doctor's office. The nurse gave Jacob an extra long look before ushering us into the exam room. The doctor then came in and delivered the news. Pain. Shock. Tears. I made eye contact with Barry. We were both sobbing uncontrollably.

Shaina was the most composed. She asked about Jordan. To me that simple question exemplifies why Shaina is such an unbelievable mom. It didn't even occur to me that Jordan could be affected, but Shaina had the presence of mind -- under those circumstances -- to ask about our daughter. That's amazing. We learned that Jordan is probably fine.

The doctor handed us some papers that he had printed from the MDA website. He then wished us good luck. We hung out outside the office for a long time. We didn't know where to go or what to do with ourselves. Now what? More tears. Lots of kisses for Jacob. He just smiled at us, oblivious and beautiful.

Next came the chore of calling our families to share this disastrous news. With each call, I couldn't get three words out before breaking down.

After awhile, it was time to head back. Eric Clapton's "Tears in Heaven " played on the radio.

We made a stop at Starbucks to spend some time before picking up Jordan from school. We saw a mom holding hands with her toddler son. Shaina thought- I will never have that with Jacob. It was the first of many times those kinds of thoughts would run through our minds.

What would we tell Jordan? How would she understand?

At the JCC, I ran into our friends Rachel and Jolie. They knew that we had a doctor's appointment. What's the news? I again broke down. I remember both of them giving me a hug.

We spend the next few hours in shock. Another emotional phone call: I called our friends Kelli and Rick and asked them to be Jacob's godparents. Kelli, in tears, said of course.

Jordan and Jacob napped. Shaina's mom came over in the afternoon. She took a beautiful picture of Jacob sitting on my lap, while I read him a bedtime story. We spent the rest of the day and week in a fog.

It was on that day that Shaina, Jordan, Jacob, and I stepped into a surreal dimension. With one sentence our lives had changed forever. Everything suddenly became harder. I miss the people that we were before that day. But I know that for all that I lost, I gained nine months with the most incredible, pure spirit that I will ever know. Thank you Jacob. We miss you so much son.

sending extra love today. a huge hug too.

Eariler this week our precious baby boy Cameron Robert Wallace was tested for SMA. Taking the blood and seeing him cry so many times was extremly hard, but not as hard as the waiting period we have to go through to get the results. We have been through this before, when he was born they thought he had Prader- willy.. We celebrated the negative results 3 weeks ago. Now we are faced with SMA. How do you get through those weeks. I feel like every day lasts forever. I can't stop crying when left alone and am having a hard time staying positive. I have read your story and am going through exactly what you went through. Maybe he will grow out of this. He looks so perfecct. He has never been able to eat on his own and we feed him through an NG tube. I thought that was difficult enough. I find myself praying for the strength to get me through the day. I pray for my little boy every minute and hope he lives a happy and strong life.

Shaina, Adi and Jordan-
There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of you and Jacob. Everytime I see a balloon, a pinwheel or a butterfly I can see his big beautiful eyes light up. Sending lots of hugs today and always. Love- Rikki

loving you and thinking of you on this day and of course all days.............

It has been a long time since I have been able to get to this site, but there is not a day that goes by that I dont think about all you guys. I wanted to let you all know that today my hearts are with you. Words can not describe how much I love you. I seem to be at a loss for words whenever I want to express how much I miss jacob, and how much I love you all. I know you guys know, but I am always searching for the right words.
I think about the time that jacob was lying in his crib and I was kissing him good bye because I was going back to orlando, it was just me and him and he had the biggest smile on his face. I have that memory imprinted in my heart and for that I am forever grateful...
I love you guys so much, I cant wait to see you next weekend
Love
jessica

Thank you, again, for your message about your "Brush with Charlie". It means the world to me to know that his spirit reaches everyone! It warms my heart to know that he is playing catch, chasing butterflies, and eating ice cream cones in heaven with Jacob, Marshall, Alec, and the many other SMA angels. Jacob's website is so inspirational. Thank you for all your efforts to help find that cure that we so badly need. Our boys are something else, aren't they??? God bless you and your family. Kathy Cowan www.caringbridge.org/mn/charlie

Just checking in...I was so happy to read about the donation and the scholarship fund. I know they will lead to great things. A dodgeball fundraiser in G'ville?... when's the alumni tournament?

the phi delt fundraiser looked wonderful. what a great way to help.
and i can't believe how big jordan is getting - she looks great! thinking of you all and jacob all the time.
love,
rebecca

Hi Guys: Looking good. I check every couple of weeks to see what is happening. Great job.......it seems like everything you touch is blessed. Keep up the good work.
Thinking of Jacob always.
Love Susan and Anabel

Dear Shaina and Adi,
I just wanted to tell you once again how terrific you this web site is. Jacob and Jordan are so lucky to have you as parents. Without a doubt, Jacob's legacy will live on through generations to come.
Thinking of you...
Love,
Debbie

I wanted to congratulate you on what sounds like another successful fundraiser. You guys are just amazing! And, I have to say, that picture of Jordan with the ball, makes you want to just eat her up! She is adorable!
Love, Sharon Cooper

my heart continues to fill
with much love and pride as you, shaina, and adi, continue to be an inspiration to me and all who know you. i hope you are able to take some comfort in the help and joy you have brought others. i was excited upon reading about the $30,000 donation you made to SMA and extremely touched upon reading about the scholarship monies made available for families that can't afford to go to the convention. our angel jacob lives on, not only in each of our hearts who knew and loved him, but in each and every act of courage and love you have demonstrated. i am so proud of joe and the work he has done. the pictures of the fundraiser are cute. sorry i missed it. i love you both so much and continue to know how blessed i am for what i have.

It has been quite a while since we have been on the site.....but it does not mean that we are not thinking of you and Jacob all the time. You are always in our hearts.

Shaina, Adi, and Jordan- Just thinking of you and Jacob today and always.
xoxoxo
Rikki,Rob,Lindsay&Emmy

Hey Shaina and Adi. I am sorry it took me till now to write but over a week ago I had my presentation on SMA and shared Jacob's story with my speech class. During the speech I showed this website and every single person in the room fell in love with Jacob. The minute I showed a picture of him everyone at the same time went, "awww"; they said both Jacob and Jordan are the cutest kids:) The speech went really well, it was great that I chose that topic because only one student in the class had heard of SMA, so I was happy to have informed everyone else about it. Hope all it well with you. Send Jordan my love. I look forward to seeing you this weekend at the fundraiser!

Shaina, Adi and Jordan,
Just thinking of you and Jacob and hope you're doing well. Give us a buzz sometime. We'd love to see you.

shaina, adi, jordan, jacob in spirit, i am sending a heartful of love today - just ..because...

shaina, adi, jordan, jacob in spirit, i'm sending a heartful of love.

Shaina, Adi and Jordan - I think about you very often. I was just visiting Julie, Todd and Sage in Colorado and the sky was clear and little Jacob was shining brightly!

Hi Shaina, Adi & Jordan:

I was just thinking about all of you and decided to drop you a line. I continue to be most impressed with Jacob's site. What an inspiration you all continue to be. I know Jacob is smiling so proudly at his loving family right now! We continue to think about you and hold you in our prayers. We wish you all the best.

Laurie & Mark Potter and our angel, Marshall too! www.marshallpotter.com

You had a very special child, what a joy he brought to your life!! My prayers are with you and your family. I hear this all the time but believe it!! -- our angels are playing together, running and laughing. I was swinging Saria's sister Sage at the park yesterday and she said GMA Sandy I bet saria is swinging in heaven. Well we went higher and higher and I know that Saria was laughing and giggling like she did here on earth, and I think she was probably trying to swing higher than her sissy Sage.!! Love ya Saria

Shaina - happy b-day! i remember when you turned 16 and got your driver's license! you have come a long way, baby!

Happy 30th Birthday Shaina!

Hi Shania and Adi, I have been meaning to write for some time now. I just wanted to say how grateful I am to have been able to play an active role in your first fundraiser. It was such a lovely evening; you two did an amazing job planning it. Joe told me around how much money you made that night alone and it amazed me. You guys are incredible people and parents and everything you do proves that. After spring break I will be giving an informitive speech on SMA to my public speaking class at Santa Fe. I will also be showing your beautiful website to the class so hopefully that will raise more awareness about the disease and perhaps some people will even contribute to helping raise money for SMA research. I will let you know how it goes.
Until then take care and send my love to your other little angel, Jordan! Hope to see you all some time soon.

I havent been able to check this site in awhile. Everytime I get to be at a computer I love to sign on and see jacobs face. I am so glad that I got to be a part of Jacobs first fundraiser, I am not surprised at the success. I know jacob was there the entire night. I am sure he saw all the balloons and and felt how much mommy, aba and jordan miss him. I cant wait to see you all this weekend. I love you guys so much.
love
aunt jessica

Dear Shaina, Adi, & Jordan,
We are so proud of you! The fundraiser was a huge success. We had a wonderful evening and everything was PERFECT! You continue to be an inspiration for all the people around you. Jacob is surely watching from up above also so proud of you. The website and the foundation are a beautiful tribute to him. Please let us know how we can help for future events. We love you guys so much! We love you and miss you Jacob every day.
Love, Lisa & Lewis

Dear Shaina, Adi, and Jordan,
After coming back home from NY, I ran to the computer to check the messages and look at the photo gallery from "For the Love of Jacob". I can't believed we had to miss such a spectacular evening, and it aches my heart everytime I think about it. I am sorry that i missed jacob's first fund raiser. It certainly doesn't surprise me that with his families love behind every detail, that it ran smoothly, and over 20 thousand dollars were raised to fight SMA!
I wanted to let you know that everyday i think about jacob, look at his picture, and i miss his special face. Although i don't say it, on the 27th and the 1st of every month, i think about you guys even more deeply than i do on the other days, and pray that you are doing ok. I love you immeasurably.

We were thrilled to hear that your first fundraiser was such a success. We wish that we could have been there. We are always thinking about you guys!

Shaina and Adi
Thanks for letting us be a part of such a special evening. We are thrilled that the fundraiser was such a tremendous success!
Hope to see you and Jordan again soon.

Dear Adi, Shaina and the Rappoport family:
Upon signing on to your website, I am absolutely speechless. Reading Jacob's story not only brought a tear to my eye, but also puts a hole in my heart. I consider Jacob a hero as well as the entire Rappoport family. All of you guys are incredible, and exemplify strength, love and courage. My family and I wish only good fortune for your entire family. Reading your journal showed how special Jacob was. Please stay well. Love, Russell Bernstein and Family

$21,000!!! WOW!! Congratulations! All children afftected with SMA are so lucky to have you guys.

Dear Shaina and Adi

The evening was beautiful. You both are amazing. You did a great job. I love you, Jodi

Took a journey through this whole web site. What a wonderful memorial to Jacob!!!

Shaina and Adi:

Great, great job! I was thrilled and amazed at the turnout. You are very special people to have so many come out with open wallets for a cause you believe in your hearts. Jacob was one lucky guy. Congrats again on a job well done. See you on Wednesday of next week at the hockey game.

Love Susan and Anabel

dear shaina and adi
what a beautiful tribute to your love for jacob and your dedication to helping all children who now live with sma. when you both were speaking and said that jacob was in a star looking down upon us, i looked up in the sky and there was just one star and it was twinkling.

Dear Shaina and Adi,
We just got home from "The Love of Jacob" and I had to write to let you know what a lovely event it was. The turn out was amazing, and it was so nice to see so many people that we had not seen in many years. I could not help but notice what a beautiful night it was, with so many shining stars in the sky. It was as though little Jacob was smiling and shining down on all of us. I am sure that he was very proud of his Mommy and Aba this evening. Thank you for a wonderful evening. We look forward to future events and gatherings.
Love, Sharon & Glenn Cooper

Really looking forward to seeing you Saturday. $$$ so far sound great, keep up the good work!

Rachel (your sis) told me about your "shooting star" and urged me to read the story--as a mom of 2 now (including a boy Jordan and Sophie his sis), I can imagine your journey with Jacob. my heart and thoughts are with you as you find solace in your mission (to think Shaina you could've been a rabbi--seems like a mommy is really what you were meant to be!) All my love to you, Adi, Jordan and your whole family. xoxoxoxox trudi & family

Hello Rappoport Family,

We just wanted to wish you lots of luck and fun at the fundraiser. We thought of Jacob today, just as we do every day. You continue to be an inspiration. Take Care.

Love,
The Potter's
(Mark & Laurie and our own angel, Marshall)
www.marshallpotter.com

I am really looking to your first fundraiser. See you on Saturday.

Dear Shaina,

Elissa has kept me informed of what you and your family have gone through. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

It seems like only yesterday we were together at UF for activities and now you have lived two lifetimes.

Your amazing energy has gone to a wonderful cause. I have always said, "From bad things, only good things can be reaped." You have sewn wonderful seeds with this website. It is informative, shares personal things beautifully and gives hope for a cure some day.

I wish the foundation success and to you and your family, I wish stregnth.

Rena Feuerstein

Shaina, Adi & Jordan:

There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of you. Because of your story, everytime I look at Connor, I cherish every minute, every day, every giggle, and every tantrum he has!

I am so sorry for your loss. Jacob was the luckiest little boy to have parents like you and a sister like Jordan. I can't even begin to imagine what you all have been through, but know that you have been in my thoughts everyday.

Knowing the two of you, I know you will leave an amazing legacy with Jacob's Foundation. I wish you only happiness everyday of your lives and success with helping find a cure for SMA.

Your website is amazing and an incredible testament to the love and strength of your family.

Love,
Elissa (Feuerstein) Whorl

misses you everyday i don't see you, thinks of you often, and loves you always.

Dear Shaina, Adi & Jordan,
I was so excited to see your website up and running. It is truly amazing. Thank you all for sharing Jacob with us You really have changed the way that I view everything in my life. I am looking forward to attending your first fundraiser and others in the future. I know your efforts will be a great sucess and make a difference for others who are batteling the same enemy.
I wish that we could have met under different circumstances but I feel so blessed to know you all.
We love you much -jacob, more than you can imagine. xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxox

Shaina~
Jacob's web sit looks great! I love you'll! xoxo

Magical. The only way to describe your energy, inspiration, and love.

dear shaina, adi, and jordan, the article in the newspaper (as i have already written) is both touching and inspiring. i have thought many times about the choices you and other families like yours have had to make. the title was so appropriate - "no harder choice." i salute you and the freeman's for your inpiration and above all your courage. to put yourselves out there, to share your trials and tribulations with all is an amazing act of courage. i don't know what choice i would have made faced with the same situation, but i do know that each decision on ALL families parts is not made lightly and most importantly that regardless of the different choices, they are made from the same place - deep within your hearts, which are filled with profound, unfathomable love.

Erik and I want to wish you great success with the benefit and all you are doing for children with SMA. Our thoughts are with you always.
Love, Jana (Levy) and Erik Myers
janamyers@hotmail.com

I am so sorry for the loss of your precious son Jacob. I know all too well the pain of losing a child to SMA. We lost our son Alec (www.oursonalec.com) on December 30, 2002 just over a year ago. He was just over 7 months old. I just read your story of Jacob and it is so similar to Alec's. We made the same decisions not to have Alec intubated. We did however make the decision to have a G-Tube place so atleast he would not die from malnutrition, SMA was BAD enough. I hope you are making it though your days okay. I guess all I can say is it's one day at a time. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Jacob was such a BEAUTIFUL baby!!!

Your story and your shooting star, Jacob, have touched our hearts. Lew and I are grieving for your loss and inspired by your strength and love. Your website is beautiful. We will keep all of you in our thoughts and prayers.

I saw the paper Sunday, it made me cry! I found it very interesting how the two families chose such different paths. I would hope that if I found myself in this same situation that I would have the strength and faith to take your path because I don't think I could ever live with the path the other couple has taken. I found myself angry at the other couple for being so selfish and not considering the quality of life over the quantity of life. I also found myself with a renewed admiration for you and Adi who chose to make a life for you, Jordan and any future children you may have.

Again, you are my hero's...............see you on the 15th!

Adi and Shaina,

I was just thinking about you guys and Jordan. I am so sorry i can't make it to the fundraiser. I'm sure you will have an incredible turnout. The site looks great and I know all of your efforts are making huge differences in the lives of others. Miss you guys.. Marc

I just scrolled down all the guests and it is truely amazing. I just think all the time of the gift that you guys have given everyone whose life has been touched by Jacob. The way you guys keep opening up your hearts to everyone is so amazing. I know Jacob is looking down on us, showing all the little angels who his aba, mommy and sister are. Everytime I look at his picture I really cant believe that he is no longer with us. I miss him so much everyday. I feel there are no words to express how I am feeling. Shaina Adi and Jordan I love you guys so much. I cant wait to come home.(only to visit ofcourse)I Love You

Shaina and Adi,
It's been a little while since I checked this site and I was so excited to see it up and running. I love looking at Jacob's pictures!

Adlai and I are looking forward to coming to Jacob's fundraiser. Please let me know if I can do ANYTHING to lend a hand.

We really enjoyed seeing you and Jordan. Hope we can do it again soon.

Just thinking of Jacob, as I often do and wanted you to know your in my thoughts and prayers!

Love to you all!

Adi & Shaina,
We saw the article in Sunday's paper and we are both so sorry to hear of your loss. This website is a beautiful tribute to an adorable little boy. Your continuing efforts in the form of the Jacob Isaac Rappoport foundation is a wonderful gesture to help others who are coping with this same affliction. We wish you the best of health and happiness for the future. Regards, Tina, Ira, Emily, & Jamie Morris

Shaina, Adi & Jordan,
I read what happened to your little one a few months ago & I wanted to express my deepest sympothy to you. However, against my better judgement, I did not. Elliott thought that it would be best to leave you alone since we have not spoken in a while. Since December, I have not stopped thinking about you and your family. I know how much family means to you so I know that you are surrounded by loved ones daily. I know what it is like to loose someone that you love dearly. However, I cannot even begin to imagine what you have been dealing with. I saw the article in the paper on sun. & as my eyes filled with tears, my heart was happy to see that you created two beautiful children. Jordan looks adorable!!! I know that you both always wanted many children and I am sure that your house will still be filled!!! I know that you never forget, it just becomes a part of you. May you all find love to fill your hearts through Jordan and others. Take Care!!! fink@bellsouth.net

We read the Sun Sentinel article yesterday and we are in awe of your courageousness. Your website, message board, and foundation will make a marked difference in the fight again SMA. Kol Hakavod to both of you - your strength is amazing and inspiring.

Shaina and Adi - The Sun Sentinel story this morning about Payton and Jacob was wonderful. So many more people are now aware of SMA and hopefully, they will assist you with donations towards finding a cure for this horrible disease. Again, thanks for sharing your story and Jacob's life with everyone.

As always, we are so proud of the work that you continuously do to bring awareness to other children with SMA. We hope to see many friends and family at the fundraiser!!!

a perfect site for a perfect angel. we are looking forward to celebrating jacobs life with you on the 15th. we are always here for you and it is our pure honor to share in jacobs life.

Dear Shaina & Adi ...it has been so many years since we've seen each other and when I learned of the grief you have endured it broke my heart. I think of you often and think your website is such a beautiful tribute. Who knew back then what the future would hold for each of us. I wish you only happiness for the rest of your lives...Shane

I can not conceive the pain you experienced in letting this little angel go. I think what you are doing is extraordinary and I include you all in my prayers daily.

Guys!!! Wow! This site is amazing! I'm speachless! I can't wait until the big event!
Lots of Love,
Debbie

Jordan,

You should know that your parents are my heros! See you the 15th.

Love Susan and Anabel

When a baby dies, a cloud turns into an angel, and flies up to tell G-d to put another flower on a pillow. A bird gives the message back to the world and sings a silent prayer that makes the rain cry. They disappear but they never really go away. The spirits up there put the sun to bed, wake up the grass, and spin the Earth in dizzy circles. Somteimes you can see them dancing in a cloud during the day-time, when they're supposed to be sleeping. They paint the rainbows and also the sunsets and make the waves splash and tug at the tide. They toss shooting stars and listen to wishes. And they sing windsongs, they whisper to us, don't miss me too much. The view is nice and I'm doing just fine.

Dear Shaina,

I remember running into (a very pregnant) you, Adi and Jordan in the airport two Decembers ago just before you had Jacob. Never in a million years would anyone have thought such a heart breaking tragedy could take place. We really are thinking of you and know wonderful things will come of the work you are doing here. Please let us know how we can help.

Best wishes,

Robin
robinday@bellsouth.net

Hi Shaina, Adi, & Jordan,
The website is BEAUTIFUL!!! Seeing all the pictures of Jacob's shining face brings so many fond memories to my heart. I miss him so much! I'm looking forward to the fundraiser...I know it will be a huge success. Please remember that we are ALWAYS here for you. I love you guys! Love, Lisa

I have totally felt the love you all share for this little boy and it breaks my heart to think he is no longer here on earth. I can't imagine losing such a precious being and pray that you all have the strength to make it through your days.
Sometimes a story really makes you feel the emotions the family is going through and this one did for me. I have cried tears for you, for Jacob and for all the SMA babies and kids still fighting this monster.

I was deeply touched by your story sounding so much like mine. I lost a son named Nathan in November of 1998 to SMA and now have a 19 month old battling SMA type 1 named Lily who is doing very well. Our prayers go out to you all and thank you for fighting this disease. Gods Blessings!

my wife and i 's heart and love go out to your entire family,god bless you all.

Your site is very beautiful. We lost our darling little granddaughter Saria Clark on 12/2/02, and I visit the SMA Angel website every day. I know a day does not go by without our precious Saria that I truly miss that special little girl and I am so thankful that I had her in my life for 17 months. Our lives are forever changed because of her. I will think of you daily now that I have visited your site.
Thank you for sharing your story.

shaina & adis ...what a wonderful tribute to jacob's memory and all those whose lives were and are touched by sma...xoxox rita and joel

Shaina, Adi and Jordan: Your website is beautiful. It is so wonderful of you to continue to share your story and your Jacob with us. We miss him and look forward to celebrating his life with you in a few weeks.

What a great site to keep Jacobs memory alive. SMA is something I will never totally understand. My Skylar has SMA1 also. She is now 2 1/2 + years old and I am thankful for everyday I have with her. I wll be sure to tell her to give Jacob kisses for you all. She likes to talk to the angels. All our love, Tracy amd Skylar S

the website is wonderful, heartfelt, inspiring and full of love. my thoughts are with shaina, adi and jordan, and your beautiful baby boy, Jacob.

Your website is beautiful-your son is beautiful- The information is so helpful and it makes it easier to talk about- my son is an angel also from SMA so maybe they are their together playing- take care

After reading Jacob's Story over and over again, I have to congratulate you on your courage to put into words a beautiful and loving story of Jacob's life.

Jacob couldn't have chosen a better set of parents! All my love to you both and to Jordan.

This is an amazing website. The pictures of Jacob and your entire family are absolutely beautiful and your story is courageous. I am interested in all of your future fundraisers/events. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Dear Rappoport Family,

You have done an incredible job honoring Jacob through this site. I am certain he looks over you with loving eyes of admiration. Your story is beautifully written. Thank you for sharing it with all of us. Take Care.

Love,
The Potter's (Laurie, Mark & our very own Angel with the Golden Glow - who also left this earth WAY too soon - Marshall Daniel Mo Potter (August 16, 2002-December 22, 2002)

Shaina and Adi, ourshootingstar.com is simply wonderful. Jacob's story is so beautiful and informative. It is sure to help us all spread awareness about sma and to help others who are just learning about it. I wish I could be there for Jacob's first fundraiser. Instead, I will look to the stars that night to see Jacob twinkling above while he looks down on his aba and mommy with the utmost pride and love for all that you do for him.

the web site is beautiful!! Shaina and Adi you never cease to amaze me! I love you so much and I am so blessed to have you two as my sister and brother. This is a real special tribute to Jacob!

The website is beautiful and amazing. We wouldn't expect anything less from you. We look forward to supporting all your efforts in helping families of SMA and finding a cure for this horrible disease. Jacob will always hold a special place in our hearts.
We Love You-
Rikki,Rob,Lindsay and Emmy

yeepee, I was so glad when I clicked on the site and it was working. Like always, jacob's story is beautiful and so is the web site. I am cooking so I cant really write but I wanted to let you all know that I love you.
love
jessica

i don't think this website could be more beautiful, more inspiring, more filled with love.

great loking site!

Finally, I found this wonderful site. Thank you for sharing even more of your life with those who care for you and your family. Jacob is in my thoughts and prayers daily.

Its been awhile since I have been able to check this sight, but I wanted to let you know I was thinking about you all, giving kisses to Jacob everyday, and missing him more and more
I love you guys
love
jessica

thought of always, loved immeasurably.

Just a quick note to say hello and let you know that we are thinking about you. We love you all very much. See you soon! Love, The Birnbaums

Happy 1st Birthday Jacob!!!!! Big hugs & kisses.

Dear Shaina & Adi,
Today is a day of such mixed feelings. Happiness, that an angel was born on this day just one year ago, and sadness that he can't be with us here on earth to celebrate. But no matter what, we will always celebrate this day, for today the world bacame a better place, all because of you Jacob. We will forever be grateful to you Jacob.

wishing you a happy birthday. we love you and miss you.

Dear Jacob

I am sending a heartful of love to you and to your family on this special day you were born.

Jacob Isaac,
Wishing you a happy first birthday in heaven. We think about you every day. You will always have a special place in our hearts. We love you very much! Your short time on earth has made us all more compassionate, caring, and wiser. We are thankful that we were able to share your life with you - we miss you more than words can say! Sending you lots of birthday hugs and kisses ... we love you sweet angel! Love, Lisa, Lewis & Adam

happy birthday shooting star. not a day goes by that you are not remembered. we love you

love aunt rachel and uncle josh

last year right at this moment i was soooo excited, hustling and bustling around, getting ready to go to the hospital to wait for my grandbaby to be born. we didn't know if the baby was to be a boy or a girl - although adi did have his predictions and he was right! today as i go down memory lane i remember that beautiful, spectacular morning when jacob isaac rappoport was brought into this world. that day was truly heaven on earth. today he is celebrating his one year birthday in another heaven. every star will remind me of his light. i will send him kisses and and an abundance of love.

always and forever in my heart. mom

Dear Shaina, Adi, and Jordan, I continue to think about your family every day. Last night, in particular, I was giving Sam a bath and listening to music. And the Elton John song "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" started to play. Shaina included this song on a mix tape of music about friendship she made for me 10 years ago. I had dropped out of UF to help my mom take care of my dad who was suffering from terminal cancer. This song was on the tape; some of the words are..."I thank the Lord for the people I have found…I thank the Lord there are people out there like you."

Shaina, you were only 19 then and although you couldn't completely understand my suffering and pain, you knew how to comfort me as a true friend. I have always thought of you as someone wise beyond your years. It's one of the many reasons I admire and respect you.

It wasn't just the gesture of and the thoughtfulness behind that tape. Shaina drove to visit me in New Orleans during the worst of times for our family. She didn't know what she would witness, but seemed to know that spending time with me would be good medicine for me and would help me be a better caregiver for my dad. And when my dad passed away, she traveled through the night to be there for my dad's funeral. Since then, Shaina has called me on my dad's yartzheit EVERY year...even just weeks after delivering Jordan (when most new moms' minds are rightly in a very self-centered place--not Shaina).

My point in sharing my story is partly to let Jordan know just one more reason why she has not only a great mommy, but to also let her know why she is so very lucky to have a wonderful and beautiful friend in Shaina.

During this past year, your family has shared so much with me and taught me more about life than I even learned from my own personal loss. And now those words in the song remind me of you in new ways. So I just wanted to borrow the words from Sir Elton--I thank the Lord for the people I have found. And I thank the Lord there are people out there like you.

I love you with all my heart and I miss you all dearly. Love, Beth

dear family, i am sending you love.xoxoxoxoxoxoxox

My dear Shaina,
I am sitting here at work fighting back tears after reading about Jacob. I have been so busy and failed to keep informed of his status. I am so sorry to find out that he has left us. I wish that I could be there to give you a big hug. I know that you and your family must be heartbroken and that Jacob is constantly on your minds. He was very special and will always be with you in your hearts and minds. May each day bring you comfort and hope for a happy future.

I hope that you, Adi and Jordan will have a joyous and peaceful holiday. I will be thinking about you. much love, Pammie

dear shaina, adi and jordan,
it has been a while since i last posted a message. however, i often think of jacob. with the deep sadness that stops me in my tracks i take a moment to rejoice in the love and courage that he has brought to this earth. because jacob was in the world he has changed my world.
you and your family are courages people. even though the darkness in your hearts is so heavy jacobs love floods your being with the brightest light.

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordan,
Every time I have clicked on to this site, I have tried to write a message... After reading each beautiful message you write about your special angel, I try, but find myself at such a loss for words...
Please know that Doug and I love and think about you everyday. Having witnessed Jacob's courage and spirit and the courage and spirit of your whole family has forever changed us. It is amazing how such an outragously unfair and horrible thing could have such a positive effect on so many people. Our family, as well as many others I know, have learned such great lessons in compassion, love, the importance of family and how obviously precious life can be. Thank you for sharing Jacob and your family with us.
We love you and here for you always.
Love,
Debbie, Doug, Isaac and Ethan

dear shaina, adi, and jordan

everyday i try to put words on paper, write a poem with meaning, something to have to express myself deep from the heart, but alas i cannot seem to start, to describe the preciousness of two little hands,or ten soft, as they grazed, tiny fingers, a thousand broken hearts, and how of the feel of our sweet prince,jacob so sweetly lingers. i cannot put into words what i want to say,about the knowing, almost mischevious smile, the light that shone from such a sweet baby face, my dream, my desire to have another embrace. a musical giggle, each delicate touch, to our sweet angel, how i miss you so much.........

Just wanted to write you a little letter to say I love you and think about you guys everyday.
I miss Jacob and think about him all the time.
I love you guys
love
jessica

dear sweet little jacob
i think of you everyday. i have your picture close by and i gaze deeply into your large beautiful eyes as i did when you were here to gaze back. i miss every memory i made with you. i miss the loss of new memories we could have made. when i am inside a moment that is painful and i think of what has been beyond tragic, i bring your sweet smile to heart and mind and will myself to remember miraculous magic.......that is you. i love you and will miss you everyday of my life. love, grammy

Shaina & Adi,

I was opening a fortune cookie and when I read the message I thought of you both. It read
"You are the guiding star of his existence." I'm saving this to give to you. That is exactly what you all are to Jacob and will always be.
Love you all. Big hugs and kisses, and happy holidays to you and your family.

Once in a lifetime, if you're lucky, you meet someone who inspires you to be a better person and to appreciate the beauty in each new day. To everyone who knew him, Jacob will forever be our inspiration. The love, warmth, and compassion that filled his days were immeasurable. Please know how much you all are loved, too. It is because of the three of you that Jacob truly was an "angel". He will forever be remembered with love. We love you, Dalia, Dave, and Jake

Dear Shaina, Adi & Jordan,

You don't know me, but I worked with your grandmother, Lois, at JCI for over 14 years. I think we met a couple of times when you visited her at JCI, but it was a very long time ago. Even though I didn't know you personally, Lois always shared her grandbabies, as she always called you all, with her frieds at JCI. In the same way, you have shared your beautiful baby boy Jacob and your journey with the rest of the world. I wasn't aware that your precious Jacob was ill until my family and I ran into Lois and Gene on September 28th. She said she had been helping with her terminally ill great grandbaby and we were very saddened by this news. And, then just a few days later I learned (from Peggy, another of Lois's friends from JCI) that your Angel had departed this world. I can't tell you how sad I was and I was given the "Jacob's World" website information by Peggy. I read the message you wrote on the day of his passing and I cried! I cried because Jacob's short life seemed a difficult one for him and I cried because, as a parent, I could only imagine the pain you both must have been feeling, and I cried because fo the courage and strength you both have had. You both are incredibly unselfish parents to have shared your baby with the world, and for giving inspiration and strength to others when you two were hurting. The world would be a better place if everyone had your compassion, love, inspiration and courage and faith. And, I must not forget your wonderful little girl, Jordan. From the mpostings I've read, she brought a smile to Jacob whenever she was near. And, she did so much more, it seems too! Children are very brave and inspiring and a source of strength for their parents during the toughest of times. Please share with her that I admire her courage and love. Again, I know you don't know me, but I was deeply touched by your loss because I am a parent and because although briefly, I met you. I do hope that with each day, your memory of Jacob grows stronger and that he continues to give you the strength, courage and love to find a cure for this awful disease. Your time with Jacbo was short, but you were right when you said he was a gift to you and that he lived a full life. From what I've read, you were the perfect parents for Jacob - he was lucky to have you. I wish you the very best in your endeavor to fight for a cure. I look forward to reading about it on the "ourshootingstar" website. God Bless you all!

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan--Sending our love. Thank you for sharing little Jacob with all of us. xoxox

Jordan,
I wanted to write a little message for you
so you could one day know how during the most difficult times you brought sunshine.
You brought laughter and joy at a time when it was needed the most. You put a smile on Jacobs face whenever you were around. When he heard your voice it calmed him down. He loved it when you would sing or dance with him. I will never forget his smile when he was laying on your lap looking up at you. He really loves his big sister. You are an amazing little girl. I am always so excited to spend time with you. I love you so much Jordan you are our sunshine.
Love
Aunt Jessica

I feel like I am at loss for words. The way you guys shared Jacob with all of us is amazing. Every night I look at my picture of Jacob, say goodnight and give him a kiss. I know he knows I do this everynight. The love I feel for Jacob keeps getting bigger and bigger. Shaina and Adi-I know everyone has told you guys how amazing you both are and how you have inspired so many. You both have truely given me a gift that has forever changed my life. Knowing and loving Jacob was and still is the best gift I could ever recieve. I wonder so much why this happened to you guys, but then I think about how lucky Jacob is to be brought into a family that was able to give him the best 9 months and 4 days he could possibly have. I believe with all my heart that Jacob picked both of you, he saw the love that you have for one another and the love you have for Jordan and he knew you guys were the right parents for him.
I am going to miss this web site a lot but I cant wait to get on our shooting star.
I never know what to say and I always want to find the right words, I know this is impossible but I am here now and forever.
I love you guys do much
Love
aunt jessica

Shaina, Adi, and Jordan,
We want to give you guys a great big hug and an even bigger thank you! Thank you for ... being such wonerful friends, for sharing Jacob with us, and for being such an inspiration to all those around you! You are such an incredible family! We know that every day is a challenge for you - try to take some comfort in knowing that you have so many people that love you so much and are here for you. It is sometimes hard to find words to say because it hurts so much to see your best friend in so much pain. I know there is nothing I can do or say to make it all better - so I will just remind you that I love you all so much! We think about you every day! Sometimes at night I look up at the stars and think about Jacob's beautiful face, twinkling eyes, and his smile that lit up the room just like the stars light up the night sky. Every night I read Adam "Goodnight Moon" before bed with hopes that Jacob is listening too (I think he is!) We miss him so much! Jacob will forever be in our hearts. I feel so lucky that I knew Jacob, shared in his life, and had chances to see him smile in person (I even made him smile a few times). These memories give us strength through this difficlt time. Our family looks forward to seeing you on the new website and to helping you with the jir foundation and finding a cure for sma. Sending you hugs, kisses, and lots of love ... Lisa, Lewis, & Adam

dear shaina, adi, and jordan, thank you for letting us be part of your lives in such a unique, real, poignant, and deeply personal way. no one should ever have to go through what you all have. as i remember the past months, i know that it is the both of you that are testaments to the human spirit. it is you who have never given up on living life to the fullest. even as you yourselves were suffering, you provided us with unending inspiration., and as you continue to suffer today, we still benefit by that inspiration. when we received jacob's diagnosis and all through jacob's illness there were so many moments when i was at a loss of what to say, what to do, how to comfort you, how to get through each day. it was you who comforted me, reminding me that we had jacob TODAY, at that very moment, and you were going to spend each and every moment filled with gratitude that today he was here. and every time i hugged, kissed, and played with him i took the time to appreciate him just a little more, to record each memory in my heart and soul just a little bit more vividly.so when i read him "baby faces" and he smiled the biggest at the "surprise" baby face, i took an extra moment to remember that smile. i have it inscribed in my heart. i own it, i hold it. thank you for reminding me to take note of the gift. this very website is just one other example of that inspiration. i will miss this website and all that our friends who became family and our family who are our friends have been able to share. this website was created when jacob was alive and we were all able to become closer through sharing our hearts. there are countless ways you all have inspired, as you continue to do even with the jacob isaac rappoport foundation. thank you for letting us all know you and love you. mom

Shaina and Adi, you always express yourselves so well on these pages of
Jacobs World. Although i can't even begin to feel your pain, the way you
have let us in gives me a strong sense of it. I love you guys so much, and i
am here for you now and forever. Your strength still amazes me, day in and
day out. Jacob has made a lasting impression on the way i view life, on
what i put value on, and perhaps the greatest gift the ability to love. I
always said that i never believed in love at first sight until Jordan came
into this world. And i never knew the capacity one can love until jacob did.
Jacob you are forever with me. Shaina Adi and jordan, i love you with all my heart.

Shaina and Adi - When we met (you both were teens), Jay and I were so impressed with your abilities to lead in B'nai Brith Youth Organization. Then our lives came together several years ago, when Jordan was a baby. Now, our lives have joined again and I pledge to you our support with the JIR Foundation. Whatever we can do to assist you, we'll be there. We love you all; you are in my thoughts daily. Thanks for sharing your lives with us. Linda

We love you. We are here for you. We thank you for letting us into your lives; therefore, loving and getting to know beautiful Jacob. He is in our hearts forever.

Shaina, As always, your words are expressed in a way that display such beauty. As I have told you before, you, Adi and Jordan are such incredible people. Your strength and courage are remarkable and I know that Jacob can feel this every day. He is your "shooting star" and is out there looking upon all of you and displaying a great big smile. Your celebration of his life is a wonderful thing and I know that it takes a lot for you all to do that everyday. No one would ever expect for any of you to be the same again. You will always have his love and this alone has to bring you a sense of comfort. As for my last entry here, I feel honored to have shared time with him and I feel honored to have a friendship with you. You have inspired me in so many ways. I look forward to the future and hopefully finding a way to stop sma. We miss you Jacob! Love and kisses to you all---Lauren

Shaina, your words are so beautiful. Jacob is a shining star who taught us all so much.

yesterday i turned 50. i was surrounded by the people i love the most. I missed holding jacob, seeing his sweet smile. i held on to the memory of his smile. i enjoyed the extra gift of spending special time with jordan. she is so beautiful in every sense of the word. to all my shining stars, i love you so very much. love grammy-mom

I love you and was so glad to spend this past weekend with all of you. Jordan was awesome, she really lights up a room. I missed Jacob, I cant even begin to imagine what you guys feel day after day. I was thinking about you all tonight, so I just wanted to let you know that I love you guys
love
aunt jessica

i remember i remember i remember...the day jacob was born, waiting for my second grandbaby, hearing "its a boy," laughing, crying, calling my mom, adi's big smile, seeing jacob for the first time....tiny beautiful crying bundle, watching jacob through the glass for HOURS in absolute awe - at his every movement, his knees coming up, his hands touching his little face,his cry, aching to hold him, holding him, feeling his perfect little body, smelling him, nuzzling kisses in his neck, feeling an overwhelming rush of love and happiness, never wanting to let him go....first family photos taken - with all of a sudden "big" sister jordan, new baby jacob, mommy, and aba. love and elation....heaven

Although I don't often write, I think of all of you everyday. It was great to see Jordan yesterday and I won't give up on trying to get kisses and hugs. I miss Jacob's smile and big eyes that looked everywhere. I miss trying to get him to smile by speaking to him in my high funny voice (which only worked sometimes), patting his back or tush, making funny rasberry noises, watching everyone who was around him showing how much they loved him, showing him myself how much I loved him, and those are just some of the memories I will always have and what I will always miss. Love..................

I am sitting in school reading all the new messages and I cant help but cry. everything everyone has written is so beautiful and so true. I miss jacob. I miss hearing his little cry. I miss getting updates, I miss driving down from orlando to see him. I miss his smile. I really just miss him so much. I think about him all the time. I always want to say the perfect thing, but I know thats impossible. So today I just wanted to say I love you Shaina,Adi,Jordan and Jacob. I know Jake is rapping up there with RunDMC
love you guys so much
Jessica

Dear Shaina & Adi,
I know that today was especially difficult for you both, as well as your extended family and us- your friends. Just wanted you to know that I am thinking of you all. We all miss you Jacob.
Hugs & Kisses xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo!!

everyday i miss our sweet baby boy more and more. i look at jacob's picture and wish i could hold him one more time. everyday i hold all of you in my heart and send love. always, mom

ps memories will be coming. i have so many beautiful ones!

Since I didn't meet Jacob either, I can best report missing what I was able to hear during the times that Shaina and I spoke on the phone. I miss the sweet sounds of listening to Jacob while he was nursing. Just like Jordan did when she was a baby, he sounded so determined and content at the same time. I also miss hearing Jacob sing and talk. He gladly accepted his place in his family that is filled with song, and always sounded happy to make himself heard through precious melodies. Whenever I hear a "noisy nurser" or a singing baby, I will remember your beautiful Jacob--who let all of us get to know him a bit, even those of us who live very far away.

I love you guys!

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordan,
Although Joe and I only had the pleasure of meeting Jacob once, that day forever changed our lives.
It was Mother's Day-how appropriate. Your family and ours joined together for the first time to celebrate.
The day was clouded by the knowledge you had just received of Jacob's future. But the love and joy that was in the house made us feel honored to be included. Your precious Jordan put a smile on all our faces and Jacob warmed our hearts with his sweet face.
I wanted so much to hug you all and take your hurt away. This just shouldn't be! This family didn't deserve this!
But then I realized that having Jacob-even for such a short time-was a blessing; one that brought you all closer and would be a wonderful part of you forever. He will always live through you all.
Your strength is amazing to us and a lesson for us all. We are so happy that our Josh and your Rachel have brought us together.
Thank you.
Iris and Joe

The new message is just beautiful. I remember when Amy was here visiting she told the story of how her husband said, "go run and play with your friends now" at Sawyer's funeral. This is what I immeadiately thought of when I read what Jordan said in the car. Jacob was in that tree climbing and playing and I bet Sawyer was there with him. It is amazing how she can imagine this beautiful image of Jacob and it brings so much to all of us. I have so many wonderful memories of Jacob... I don't even know where to begin.
...the first time I met Jacob in the hospital when he was born (and Adam met his new best friend)- I remember his beautiful face, his big eyes, and his sweet soft cry.
...Speaking to you Shaina on the phone every morning to compare how many hours the boys had slept the night before - those were the days when Jacob was sleeping like a CHAMP!
...Going to the store to buy Jacob rattles and feathers and other light toys that he could enjoy
...Coming over to your house so that Adam and Jacob could play together - Adam always loved to "beat him up" a little bit and it was so funny to watch them together
...Watching the way his eyes lit up every time Jordan was near him. He loved to watch her and listen to her voice. His smile alone showed his love for his big sister
...I loved watching him that night in the bathtub with you. He was so content and relaxed. After the bath he was laying on your bed all clean and you were rubbing lotion all over his body. He was such a cutie pie. (By the way, that night you inspired me to use real shampoo in Adam's hair - now his hair smells yummy just the way Jacob's did)
...I also miss asking you every morning "how is Jacob today?" "How was his night?"
Jacob will ALWAYS have a special place in our hearts. I can not possibly write all the memories or the things I miss in this one short note. We miss him more than words can say! Shaina & Adi, you are such wonderful parents. Thank you for sharing Jacob with me and my family. We will always keep Jacob's pictures up in our house and remind Adam of his first best friend. Jacob, Happy ten month birthday baby! We love you and miss you every day! Hugs and kisses for you gorgeous boy!
Love Always, Lisa, Lewis, & Adam

Rachel and I visited everyone's favorite mushpot frequently, so I have many memories that I replay in my mind all the time. Here's my top 5:

5-I had the pleasure of going on long walks with Jacob. I would stroll him around and around (the kitchen that is), we'd talk...well I'd talk and he'd listen...actually, I talked and he slept. But, the point is, that was our time together
4-Watching Jordan play with her younger brother. She is a bundle of energy so it wouldn't last for too long, but it was very cute.
3-Watching how Jacob interacted with his beautiful Aunt Rachel. Rachel would lay next to him, talking softly, brushing her hair against his face and he would light up with excitement.
2-Although I saw Jacob frequently, for some reason he would never give me a big smile like he would to other people. I'd get a little or half smile at best. Well I attributed this to Rachel..because I was "new" to the family, I think he was being protective of his oldest Aunt. But finally, I think I won him over. The last time I spent with Jacob he gave me, not one but two big beautiful smiles...as if to say, he approves!
1-With so many great memories, they all pale in comparison to my favorite...this little "shooting star" never shined so bright as when he looked at his mommy and Aba. It was amazing. His eyes would become huge, his smile went from ear to ear, his excitement and love was obvious. Not to be out done, the same excitement and love appeared on the faces of Shaina and Adi. This scene is the definition of love and dedication.
Shaina and Adi-thanks again for letting me share him with you.

Jacob-you will forever be a blessing and I will always remember you in my heart.

Love Uncle Josh

Jordan:

I know exactly what you saw and understand how easy it is to imagine what Jacob is doing at this very moment, which is always smiling and laughing.

You are a very special little girl.
Love Susan and Anabel

just wanted you to know that i am thinking of you. i have scrolled back and read about the JIR foundation and think it's a wonderful idea. what a tribute to jacob... sending you lots of hugs, prayers and thoughts..

One of the memories I play over and over again in my mind, is seeing Jacob laying in Jordans lap. The way she put her hand on his head and he would just smile. It lasted only a minute, but in my heart it will last forever.One of my favorite things to do with Jacob was to say his name in a high pitch tone and make nosies with my tongue that only I could make and watch a smile come to his face. He lit up a room no matter where he was. His big beautiful eyes and watching the way he looked at aba and mommy will be a picture forever etched in my heart. I love you guys so my. I could see him now balloons all around laughing and playing with Sawyer and the rest of his friends in heaven, and ofcourse always smiling.
I am thinking of you all always
Love
Jessica

I most certainly do think that Jacob was climbing in that tree and playing. What a beautiful sight Jordan must have seen. Those eyes, those eyes! The beautiful smiling eyes. Jacob had the best smiley eyes. Love you guys.

I miss... coming over and seeing his big beautiful brown eyes light up, bringing the girls over and taking Emmy's hand over to his to play pat-a-cake, watching him get more and more hair while Emmy still had none, watching him look at the kids running around him with that beautiful smile, and I can't help but miss my morning call to see how he did that night.

Jacob- you will always be in my heart and you'll always be Emmy's first love.
I Love You & Miss You -Rikki

I loved coming over to see jacob. My favorite game was to lean over him and run my hair over his beautiful face. This always brought a smile to his lips, and lit up his eyes. I loved making jacob smile, but noone could do it quite like Aba and mommy could:)
i love you jacob, and i just know you were dancing in the clouds yesterday, with balloons all around and publix icing on your lips:)

the posting is immeasureably beautiful. today i spent special time remembering jacob's birthday's. priceless memories i hold close and tight. i love you all more than words can say. gram-mom

You write the most beautiful things Shaina. I think of Jacob myself quite often and everytime I do, I get a nice big smile. Like you asked, one of the things I will always remember about Jacob was one particular morning at your house. We were sitting on your couch and I was holding him and I discovered that if I blew into is face, he just laughed and smiled. It was the cutest thing to see. I will always remember that smile. You are in our thoughts always.

I love you guys thinking about you always. I will be wishing Jacob happy birthday all day long. I miss you all.
love aunt jessica

Shaina, Adi, and jordan. Thinking about you always and sending our love everyday, but today so much more.

thinking about all of you. sending you love.

We just wanted you to know that we are thinking about you!

Just thinking about you! Looking forward to spending some time with you this weekend. Love you! Lisa, Lewis, and Adam

I look for a message everyday. Just know that you're in my prayers always.
Love, the Kline family.

I'm looking forward to our visit this weekend. Steve and I think of you guys every day, and we are continually inspired by your strength and courage. We are so impressed by your commitment to create a meaningful, lasting legacy for Jacob via his foundation and its mission. You can count us among the many supporters!

Shaina and Adi, We send our love and prayers to you and your families.

Thinking of you. . . sending love xoxox

Shaina, Adi and Jordan,
You are in my thoughts daily...just wanted you to know. Linda

Shaina,
It was great to talk with you the other day. You are all in our thoughts constantly, and we are anxious to help any way we can with Jacob's Foundation. We just want you to know that you're in our prayers and that we think you and adi are truly an amazing couple. I know that your incredible love for one another, Jordan and Jacob will sustain you in the days to come.

I love you and am thinking about you always. Give Jordan a big hug and kiss for me. Cant wait to help find a cure. please know that whatever i can do I will. I love you guys so much.
love
jessica

Hi Shaina, Adi, and Jordan. Jacob would be so proud of all your efforts to attempt to find a cure for sma. He would be proud too that you want to do for others what they have done for you. Please know that we are here for you always.

Hi Shaina, Adi, and Jordan,
We are excited to hear about the Jacob Isaac Rappoport Foundation - Please know that we are here to help with anything and EVERYTHING! Together we will make a difference! We already have our babysitter for February - it sounds like a great idea for a fundraiser! I remember how nice it was when you received the care packages for Jacob filled with all the fun toys that he could play with. By sending packages to others you will surely bring a smile to their faces during a difficult time for them. We are so proud of your family - all your efforts, your strength and your courage.
We also just want to let you know that we love you all very much and we are so glad that you shared in Adam's birthday yesterday. It meant a lot to have you there with us and we know that Adam's best friend Jacob was watching over enjoying the party with us. We miss him so much too! Thank you for being such an inspiration and for being such special friends. You truly are like family to us.
Sending lots of love and extra hugs and kisses to all of you! XOXOXOXOX Thinking of you ALWAYS!
Lisa, Lewis, & Adam

Though you may not get a message everyday, you're never out of mind. I know it must be impossible to write something everyday especially when you're trying to get through each minute of the day. I enjoy reading your entries, just to hear about what you did today. I image what you must be going through, and then I think to myself it must be a million times worse. You both a truly very special people. You would have to be to have created such an amazing gift... Jacob. Of course, Jordan is special too, and I know you will both enjoy watching her and cherishing all of the memmories she shared with Jacob. No one can take that away from you, so hold them close to your heart
I love you all, please try to write, it helps us too.

shain, adi and jordan,

i'm so glad to hear how you all are doing - you're always in my thoughts. the Jacob Isaac Rappoport Foundation sounds so wonderful and special. jacob will live on through this and in everyone's hearts. i can't wait to help in any way i can. i know this foundation will make such a difference.

love, rebecca

Shaina, Adi & Jordan,

Count us in! It will be our honor and pleasure to help and support the Jacob Isaac Rappoport Foundation in any way needed. Just let us know and we'll be there. Thinking of you all as always, Jennifer, Eric, Maddy and Mason

I see you everyday but I want to give you your space. I'm sure you must feel like running away at times. I'm excited to hear of Jacobs Foundation. I know you will make it a sucess to so many other families who need it. You are in my thoughts constantly. I wish I could heal the pain in your heart, but I know I can't. I would love to help organize the fund raisers with you. I know you'll keep us all posted.
Be Well. hugs and kisses to you all.

Dear Shaina, Adi, and Jordan,
Although we may not be near, we are never to far to help with and support the Jacob Isacc Rappoport foundation. Your strenth and determination to find a cure for SMA is immeasurable. The fundraisers you've already started to think about are fantastic ideas. Many SMA families will feel blessed to receive dinners, appropriate toys, as well as hope that special people like you are working so hard to help find a cure for SMA. We are always here for you. You continue to be in out thoughts daily. We love you very much!

Dear Adi and Shaina: I just wanted to let you know that I think of you each and every day. I only wish that I had the opportunity to meet your shining star. Instead, I have treasured everything you have shared with us through this website. You (and your entire family) have opened our eyes to a kind of unconditional love that one only dreams of. Fondly, Mary Beth

Shaina and Adi:
I check the web site each day and have been waiting for the day when you came up for a little air. Your most recent update is amazing and inspiring. Anabel and I are here and ready to do whatever it takes to help find a cure. Keep us updated. I already have a babysitter for Feb! Just wanted you to know that I think of you everyday.
Love Susan

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordan, You all continue to be an inspiration to so many people - I don't know if you even realize how special you all are. I cannot even begin to imagine the pain you are suffering, but as hard as it may be to understand, I truly believe SMA was brought into your lives for an important reason, because of your strength and courage to lead in the fight for a cure. Your courage is just so remarkable. All SMA children needed you. I never knew what SMA was before I learned of Jacob's story, and now I find myself trying to learn more and more about it everyday, and I am sure I am not the only person you've touched in this was. I am excited to begin the fight for a cure and hope to help in any way I can. As always, you all remain in my thoughts and prayers everyday.

Shaina and Adi,
everyday you amaze me more and more. You are both inspirational and courageous. I know we will find a cure together and I can't wait to fight with you guys. You two mean the world to me and I would do anything for you.
I Love you so much!

Hi Shaina, Adi & Jordan

You didn't get mt first message because I'm so computer literate.
I wanted to thank you for welcoming me to your home. I think about you all every day. I've been, and will continue to light a candle every night in loving memory of Jacob.
I was finally able to access Jacob's TV debut. I loved watching him interact with everyone while you cared for him. Jordan was very adorable singing her song to him. I hope that you will call me to help you with your efforts for a cure for SMA. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers, and I look forward to your next entry.

Love Always,
Diane

Shaina, Adi & Jordan,
We are so sorry to hear about all that you have gone through. I know from the postings and the news clip that you will always cherish the time you all spent with your beautiful boy, Jacob. Every life that Jacob touched will be forever changed and better for being able to have known him.

Please let us know how we can help in your efforts against SMA. Our e-mail is JBSHEAR@heathrowcable.net.

Love to all,
Jana, Evan & Ethan

Welcome home. I am so glad I got to spend time with all of you this weekend. It was really nice to be there. Jordan seemed like she was having a blast. I know that Jacob was there with you guys, sitting right next to you all on all the rides. Both of you guys are such wonderful parents. I just wanted to let you all know that I am thinking about you, praying for you and missing you everyday.
I love you
love,
aunt Jessica

Thinking about you guys... I love you! Im glad that Jordan had such a great birthday.

Thinking about you guys... I love you! Im glad that Jordan had such a great birthday.

Hi Shaina, Adi, and Jordan,
Welcome home from Disney! Hope you had a good time. We're sure Jordan had quite a birthday blast! I am glad to see that Jordan is celebrationg her birthday just like her mommy for a full "birthday week" she deserves it! We are all so proud of her - she has been a true shining star as always. Our family is continuing to think of you and pray for you every day. Please let us know how we can help in your plan to find a cure for sma. We love you all very much and we can't wait to see you this week. We have missed you a lot while you were away. Sending lots of hugs and kisses your way. XOXOXOXO
Love, Lisa, Lewis & Adam

Thinking about you...all the time. I love you

I am extremely sorry and sadened about the loss of your little angel. My thoughts are with your family during this difficult time.

we mourn for you. we grieve for you. we know that God will always be with little Jacob. Jacob and all your family will always be in our prayers
Norma and Dick Flender

Your thoughts have truly been an inspiration. Your family has touched so many people in so many different ways.
As a counselor, I plan on using that letter from bereaved parents for others - I'm sure it will be very comforting.
Just know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Thank you for sharing all of your thoughts with us everyday. Hopefully one day there will be a cure for sma and you know that we will all be here to help make that happen. Happy Belated Birthday Jordan- say "hi" to mickey and his friends and make sure you wish upon a few stars! We love you guys.

Dear Jordan:

Happy Birthday. Thank you for letting Anabel and I share you special, special day with you. As you know Chuck E Cheese is our favorite place to eat! We wish you 120 more happy and healthy birthdays.

Dear Shaina and Adi:
I visit your web site at least twice per day. I always have but now I am looking for how you are holding up. I found that once all of the traditions were over and everyone went home, the lonelyness was overwhelming. I am thankful that you have eachother and Jordan. Have a well deserved wonderful time in Disney. Jacob is watching over you and knows he is loved. When you put your plan together let me know, Anabel and I will do whatever you need to fight for a cure.

I have planted a tree in Israel for Jacob, it should grow big and strong for him through the years.

I have spoken to my love Moshiko and ask him to look out for baby Jacob and watch over him forever more. I know they are together and are our guardian angels.

Much love, Susan and Anabel

dear jordan sky
happy three year old birthday sweet princess. you are a shining star that brings us the light. i love you. grammy

Happy Birthday, Jordan Skye...3 years old. As I write this message, you and your wonderful parents are on your way to the happiest place in the world-Disney World. Shaina and Adi, when you return with a plan to raise funds for fighting SMA, you know that Jay and I will support you in any way we can (as we have done in the past). Shaina and Adi, you are such an inspiration. I'm proud to be able to say I know and love you both. You and Jacob are in my thoughts and prayers each day. Linda

Happy Birthday Jordan Sky! I remember getting a phone call from your mommy from the hospital 3 years ago today. I was walking along the beach in San Diego visiting with our friend Carrie when I heard the news. I couldn't believe you were finally here, and I just knew you were going to be a girl! It was a very happy day. When your mommy emailed me your first photo, I couldn't believe that you had the very same cute eyebrows that your mommy does---I don't know why, but that was my first impression!?

I met you in Florida a couple of times when you were a little baby. And now you're 3---wow! And your mommy tells me how proud she is of you...that you have made her and your aba smile when they didn't think they could. You are a wonderful little girl! I know Jacob misses you today…his great big sister! Jacob, we are among the ranks of the many who never met you but still miss you and love you as if we had known you forever.

Thank you Shaina and Adi for sharing your sweetie pies with us all. I'm sending you some good creative "karma" for your drive up today, so that you come back with the plan to engage us all in the fight against SMA. Sending you my love today and always. XOXOXO

Beth Miller (and Steve and Sam too)

Hi Shaina and Adi,
I remember the night you came to the restaurant
in Orlando where we were eating dinner and you
spent some time with us. I felt then how special
the two of you and your family were. I only wish
I could have gotten to know Jacob better. This
website has helped me to do just that. Thank you
both!

I am sending all of you kisses. Can't wait to help in finding a cure; I know everyone else who visits "Jacob's World" feels the same. Wishing you a peaceful Disney trip and a wonderful third birthday for Jordan.

happy birthday to jordan! i hope she has a wonderful time in disney world. what a great and important big sister she is. we are all proud of her. and shaina and adi, please let me know what i can do to help the sma cause. i think about you guys and jacob everyday.
love, rebecca

Shaina, Adi and Jordan -
Over the past several months Dalia and Susan(Edelstein) have shared with me all that your family has gone through. Although I never had the chance to meet Jacob my thoughts were with you during his/your battle and my heart broke for your family when I heard the news that he had passed away. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you and your family.
-Emily

Thinking of you all andf sending lots and lots of hugs your way.

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan and all of the Goldberg and Rappoport families,

You are in my thoughts and prayers. I heard about sweet Jacob today. This website is such a loving tribute to him. You have a beautiful family. I feel honored to have held him.

Karen

We can't stop thinking about you. We are always here for you. Hugs and Kisses

We cannont feel your pain or know your sadness but our thoughts are forever with you. May the love you have for eachother and your close friends and family carry you through this time. Jacob and is memory will live forever in our hearts.
Much love, Adriane & Michael Rosen

"Welcome Home"
When I am gone, release me, let me go
You have so many things to see and do.
You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears,
Be happy that we had the time we did.
I gave you my love; you can only guess
How much you gave me in happiness.
I thank you for the love you each have shown,
But now it's time I travel on alone.
So grieve a while for me, if you must,
Then let your grief be comforted by trust.
It's only for a while that we must part,
So bless the memories that lie within your heart.
I won't be far away, for life goes on,
But if you need me, call and I will come.
Though you can't see and touch me, I will be near.
And if you listen with your heart,
You'll hear my love around you soft and clear.
And then when you must come this way alone...
I'll greet you with a smile and "Welcome Home."


When Kelli called me to tell me about Jacob my heart broke for your family. Our love and prayers to you, Adi, Jordan and your wonderful support group. Jacob was loved so much even by people who had never met him. And your family has been such an inspiration to so many. May you find some comfort and peace with your wonderful memories of Jacob. God bless you all.

Dear Shaina, Adi And Jordan
It is very difficult for us to be so far from you at this horrible moment and to know that the telephone is the nearest place that we can be.
We want you to know that we were with you all the last five months and especially this week.
We will keep Jacob's memory close to our hearts for the rest of our life.
We love you very much and we will hold your hands for ever.
Dod ve Doda Amnon and Yael from Israel

Shaina and Adi,
Jacob's service was so incredibly beautiful and each reading was so lovingly expressed- We will remember it always.

As I watched the balloons drift gracefully up in the sky, I couldn't help but notice that two of them seemed to be purposefully moving off to the left, away from all of the others. Those two balloons made me think of Jacob and Sawyer, and that they were both going to a peaceful, happy place.

I hope that the many beautiful memories that you all have of your time with Jacob, however brief, will help sustain you in the minutes, hours and days ahead.

Your entire family, but especially you and Adi, are a remarkable source of inspiration to us and so many people. As your Mom so beautifully said, "Thank you for sharing Jacob with the world"

We would like to send our thoughts and prayers to your family. You are in our hearts.

Hi Shaina, Adi, & Jordan
We just want to let you know that we love you so much and we are always thinking about you! We are so lucky that we both had the chance to meet Jacob and spend time with him - he will be in our hearts forever! We are always here for you. Lots of Love, Lisa & Doll

Shaina and Adi, I am so glad I was able to see you and be there with you both and Jordan. You are incredible people and I can not stop thinking and praying for you all. Jacob made so many people so happy and he continues to bring people closer together. I love you all, Marc

Shaina I just wanted to let you know that I'm praying for you and Adi every day. Jacob is in our hearts and we will never forget him. I read your wish list and everything you wrote is perfect. You're right take it one hour at a time not one day at a time.

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordan:
We just wanted to let you know that we are thinking about you during this difficult time. Jacob was very lucky to have such a special family. We wish you a long, healthy life.

DEAREST SHAINA ADI & JORDAN...THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR VERY TOUCHING EULOGY FOR JACOB...JACOB WAS SO FORTUNATE IN HIS BRIEF TIME SPENT ON THIS EARTH TO HAVE THE LOVE AND ADORNMENT OF SUCH AN INCREDIBLE FAMILY...WE THINK OF YOU ALL DAILY...WE ARE SENDING YOU HUGS FROM AFAR...XOXOX RITA & JOEL

We have been thinking and praying for you and your family every day. All of you are truly amazing.
love, jake and lisa

To Mr & Mrs Rappoport & Family
With my deepest sympathy. My prayers are with you and your family.
Mary Black

"Death is nothing at all...I have only slipped away into the next room...I am I and you are you...whatever we were to each other that we are still. Call me by my old familiar name, speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Put no difference into your tone. Play, smile, think of me, pray for me. Let my name be ever the household word it always was. Let it be spoken without effect, without the ghost of a shadow on it. Life means all that it ever meant. What is this death but a negligible accident? Why should I be out of mind beccause I am out of sight? I am but waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near just around the corner...All is well." (Henry Scott Holland. 1847-1918)

We loved looking at the family pictures - so beautiful. Please keep us informed about how we can help fight SMA. Jacob's story WILL help others.

Jacob's service was beautiful!!!!! I love you'll!

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. God has taken Jacob to the place that was prepared especially for him and he is at peace now. My family and I express our deepest sympathy.

Thank you for sharing Jacob's eulogy on the website. Although I was present for the service, I'm not sure I was able to grasp all that you said. Your words were beautiful, as you both are. I will continue to speak of Jacob, as he was such a brave, courageous, bright-eyed boy. Shaina, Adi and Jordan - you have my sympathy for your loss of Jacob; however, memories last forever. Linda

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordan,
I have never met you but I feel like I know you. Through reading your updates and seeing pictures of Jacob, I am constantly amazed at your strength and Jacob's strength. He was a beautiful boy full of bright smiles. I hope and pray that you find comfort during this trying time. Love, Lauren Bub

dear shaina, adi and jordan,
although we have not spoken or been in touch in some time, you have been in my thoughts and prayers. no words can express how sorry i am for your great loss. you have a beautiful family and it's evident from the pictures, stories etc that i have seen/read-how much jacob was loved and what a strong little boy he was. i cant imagine how much sadness you must be feeling right now and i just wanted you to know that my heart hurts for you. i hope that you will find strength in your incredible support system of family and friends. thinking of you. with much love and sympathy-amy beyer (young)

Shaina & Adi,
I was so deeply touched at the service for Jacob. I never had the pleasure of meeting him but was able to learn about your sweet boy from the pictures in your dad's office and the stories that he and Joe had shared with me. Your family's courage and love has made a lasting impression. I know now that everytime I read "Good Night Moon" it will take on a bigger meaning. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and truely believe you were so right about your "Angel with the Golden Glow". Jacob has touched many lives... even ones whose paths he had never crossed.

My thoughts and prayers are with you.

I send you my deepest sympathy at this time of loss for you and your families. I just recently heard about Jacob's story and want to let you know that you are so extremely couragious and inspirational. His beautiful face will forever be sketched in my memory and he will never be forgotten. My condolences again.
Melissa, Todd, and Shane Kullen (Sternlieb)

I send my heartfelt condolences to you and your family. My thoughts and prayers will be with you all.
Darius

Dear Shaina and Adi: Yesterday will be forever etched in my heart and my mind. You are my heros. My thoughts, prayers and heart are with you today and always.
Love, Susan and Anabel

There are no words to express our feelings, only our deepest sympathy and love.

I only had the honor of meeting Jacob a handful of times. I didn't know him as well as others. However, yesterday at the funeral I felt as if I had known him forever. When we let the balloons soar into the air I experienced something unique. Not only was it terribly sad but maybe one of the most powerfully poignant, moving and beautiful moments I have ever felt. I know one thing for sure...I might not have known Jacob very well...but I will never forget him.

The events of yesterday have left a profound impact on me. Your strength is staggering...your love immense.

With much love & sympathy,

Scott, Trish, & Nathan

dearest robin and family.....my deepest sympathy...i am truly sorry...you know i know how difficult this time has been...my prays are with you and your family....and i will be in touch....call me if i can do anything....with love and sympathy...rhona

Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

May the memory of Jacob always be a gift of love, inspiration. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

SHAINA, ADI, JORDAN AND ALL THE GOLDBERG AND RAPPOPORT FAMILIES
WE WERE SO SADDENED TO HEAR OF JACOB'S PASSING...A GIFT FOR ONLY A SHORT TIME ON THIS EARTH, BUT THE GIFT OF A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES, JACOB WILL BE MISSED ALWAYS...YOUR COURAGE AND STRENGTH HAS SHOWN THROUGH THESE DIFFICULT TIMES AND WE ONLY HOPE THAT TIME WILL BE KIND TO ALL OF YOU AND ONLY THE WONDERFUL MEMORIES WILL PREVAIL....OUR PRAYERS AND LOVE ARE WITH ALL OF YOU IN THESE DIFFICULT TIMES AHEAD...WE LOVE YOU...RITA, JOEL, JESSYE, JOE, AND ERIN

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan, and families,
We were so saddened to hear about your loss and although we never had the pleasure of meeting Jacob, he will always be in our hearts. We wish you and your families peace and love during these difficult times. Thank you for sharing this beautiful website with us, it has touched our hearts and our lives more than you know.
With love,
Alyson, Jon, and Evan Brooks

Dear Shaina, Adi, and Jordan: I am so sorry to hear about your beautiful hero, Jacob. I will remember him forever, as well as all your strength, love, and courage.

Dear Shaina and family...
Shaina, I am Rebecca's best friend and you and I met in Gainesville when I wrote a journalism story about you...I have been hearing about you and your family ever since. My prayers and thoughts are with you in these trying times. May God be with you and give you peace.

"A butterfly lights beside us like a sunbeam.
And for a brief moment its glory and beauty
belong to our world.
But then it flies on again,
and though we wish it could have stayed,
we feel so lucky to have seen it."

Dear Shania,Adi and your Families:

We were so very sorry to hear of your loss.

Your family and you will be in our thoughts, our hearts and our prayers during this difficult time.

Thank you for sharing your beautiful website; it deeply touched our hearts.

With our Deepest Sympathy,

Peggy & Howard

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordon,
Your precious angel was a gift from G-d, put on this earth for a reason. His short time on earth made a difference and touched so many lives. May your strength, courage and love for each other help you through the difficult days ahead. Our prayers are with you. G-d bless you all.
love,
Shirley & Abe Bielski (Dave's parents)

Dear Rappoport and Goldberg families,
My heart goes out to all of you and you are all in my thoughts and prayers. There is no way to make sense of what happened to Jacob, but I keep telling myself that tragedies like these are constant reminders that we need to celebrate life everyday. It sounds like Jacob did that every fighting minute of his. What a wonderful lesson he has taught all of us. All my love, Kim

May you have the strength to get through this and may Jacob finally run free with the very large group of friends he has just joined. Shaina & Adi, we are so sorry for your loss and are praying for you and Jordan.

Dear Shania and Adi, I am so sorry for your loss. My God give you strength to get through this horrible time. My paryers and thoughts are with you. - Jen Berman

Dear Shaina, Adi, & Jordan - our hearts go out to you at your family at this very sad time. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Dear Shaina, Adi and families,
We were so sorry to hear about Jacob. His life, strength and courage touched so many lives, as did yours. You will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers throughout this very difficult time.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

My thoughts are ALWAYS with you. I am so proud of you and feel blessed to be part of your lives.

Dear Adi and Shania,
We love you very much.

Beloved Adi, Shaina and Jordan,
We love you. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Dear Shaina and Adi-
My thoughts go out to you and your family. Your family is in all of our thoughts and in all of our hearts.

Dear Shaina, Adi, and Jordan: I have been reading your letters and all the loving responses but today, when I logged on, my heart just broke. The loss and the sadness are devastating for you all, but what has moved us and continues to amaze us is the extraordinary power of your family's love for each other. Jacob's all too short time with you seems to have added more dimensions to the grace and love that you embody. My prayers are with you, especially that you will have peace. Love, Hayley's mom.

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordan,
We are so sorry. Our hearts go out to all of you.

Shaina, Adi, and Jordan,
Jacob was surrounded by love each day of his life. He was so lucky to have such a special family. Please know that my thoughts are with you today and always.
Much love, Laurie

Dear Adi, Shaina and Jordan

We are thinking of you during this difficult time. There are no words to express how sad we feel for you and your family. We hope that you will be comforted by the memories you shared with your beautiful Jacob. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

All our love,

Dave, Carrie and Jamie Bielski

Dear Shaina,Adi and Jordan,

We were so saddened to hear about Jacob this
morning. From our family to yours our heartfelt
sympathies.

Dear Shaina, Adi and Jordan,
There are no words to express the sadness of this day. Our heart aches for you and all those you love. Jacobs love for you Shaina was so apparent as i wathced him look at you from his crib mirror. We only pray that Jacobs love and memory will carry you throughout your lives. There is no mending your broken hearts but the joy you received from your "little fighter" and the courage you gave to him will sustain your souls and grant you peace. Our blessings for you and your family is for your strength. Jacob has profoundly touched our lives. We feel so fortunate to have you as our friends.
With all our deepest love and sympathy,
Jolie, Murray, Olivia and Ethan

Our hearts are with you. We love you.

Shaina, Adi and Jordan -
We are so very sorry to learn of your loss. Our hearts go out to you and your family. You are all incredibly strong people! An inspiration to all!!! Take care!

Dear Shaina and Adi, we are so sorry to hear about Jacob. His life, strength and courage touched so many of us near and far. It is amazing how through your openness and honesty we feel like we know Jacob although we never met him. We will never forget him. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We are so sorry

Shaina, Adi and Jordan,
Please know that you are in our thoughts and our hearts. We know through Lance and Massel just how precious Jacob was. We cannot question why his life was so brief, however you will always know that for a short time a delightful little boy brightened your life and you did the same for him. May he always be a shining star for Jordan.

I wanted to send my thoughts and prayers to you both and the whole family. You are in our hearts.

It is the end of a begining of a beautiful life, and the begining of an end. Rejoice in the gift of Jacob for to be touched by an angel is a true blessing.He will always be with all of you.The angels did sing today as they welcomed a beautiful boy into heaven.All our thoughts and prayers are with you all.K.L.P.H.C.C.

The memories of Jacob will live on in so many people's hearts. For knowing him (through the Website), our hearts and our lives are so much richer. Thank you for sharing his life with us.
With hugs, Paulette Lebowitz

We have a new angel in heaven to watch over us. May God in His Infinite goodness continue to bless you and keep you in the shadow of His wings. My loving prayers for all of you, Kass

Shaina I'm very sorry for your loss my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May God give you the peace you need during these difficult times We here at k.l.p.h.c.c. Are all praying for you and Adi.

Shaina, Adi, and Jordan, you are each in my thoughts and prayers. Your love for Jacob has made this world a better place.

Love and peace,
Alexis

Shaina, Jacob is a beautiful angel now and his time on this earth will never be forgotten.
Sending love and prayer your way, Gina Fimbel

Shaina, Adi, and Jordan,
Our hearts go out to you. We wish we could ease your pain. Jacob's beautiful smile will forever be a part of us. All of our love.
Jodi, Danny & Matthew Siff

Jacob will be in our memories forever. My support to the Family And Friends For they Bravery. Jacob Had much loves that is Hard to Accomplished in a lifetime.

Sergio.

Shaina, Adi and Jordan, my heart is so deeply saddened today. Words cannot express how sorry I am for you all. The love that you all have for one another is incredible and Jacob was fortunate enough to have shared in that love. I am thankful for the time I had to share with him. I will always remember the way he smiled at you. You are an inspiration to us all and Jacob proved with his strength to be an inspiration as well. He will always be a part of us. Please know that our family is thinking and praying for your family now and forever.

Dear Shaina and Adi:
My heart is very heavy today at the news of Jacob.
Jacob touched so many hearts in such a short amount of time...may the memory of his smile and bravery forever be remembered.
You are in my thoughts and my prayers.

Shaina, Adi, Jordan...

Words cannot express our sorrow at your loss. I feel so blessed to have known such a sweet, special, strong little boy, even for such a brief time. He could not have had a more loving, caring family with which to spend his short life. Jacob will be missed...

We are so saddened to hear of your loss. You have shown such amazing strength and courage. Jacob was blessed to have such a wonderful and loving family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.
Much Love,
Lois and Marc

When there are no words
and only tears
There is nothing to say
and yet still so much to say

May g-d be with you all today
Especially with your little shooting star
I will look up to the sky tonight and remember

Dear Rappoport and Goldberg Families:
The amount of love and courage Jacob received from your family in his nine months of life is much more than most people experience in a lifetime. Certainly Jacob's special gifts of love and extraordinary bravery will forever touch your family, friends and supporters.

Please know that we are thinking about you.

Much love,
Jen & Peter Rosenblatt

Dear Shaina,Adi,Jordan and family,
My heart just pours out to you. Those momemts shared with Jacob will be one of the most precious and memorable times of my life. He will always have a special place in my heart and I'm privledged to have known him. He will be missed!
With loving thoughts, Aunt Jodi

Shaina, Adi, Jordan, and Family,
My heart goes out to you all. Thank you for sharing Jacob with me through this wonderful web site. Jordan is one lucky little girl to have parents like you.
xoxo,
Marcy

so sorry to hear about the loss of your son...may his beautiful smile always be a light in your heart.

Shaina and Adi, we are so, so sorry that Jacob has passed. Please know that we are thinking of you, praying for you, and send our love to you. Love, Deb and Brian

It has been about a week since I have visited this site but Joe has been keeping me updated daily on Jacob and you guys. I saw him on the news, it amazes me how the awareness of SMA is spreading and it is all because of parents like you. Jacob is very lucky for you both and for his very loving big sister. I was sorry to hear about your tough last few days. I want you to know that you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Take care. Love Always-Susie

Hi Shaina and Family,
Just wanted to write a quick note to let you know I've been reading your messages and am so moved by your experiences and strength. Please know my family in Seattle is thinking of yours and sending lots of energy and love. It's been years since I've seen you all..... Love, Jill

I love you guys so much and I am thinking of you. As each day goes by I am more and more grateful to be a part of this family.
I love you, Uncle Joe

I am so sorry for your loss. Jacob was so lucky to have had such loving prents. His short time was definately filled with a love most children never feel, or know. Please know that in your very difficult journey ahead that you are thought of often by so many people. People, you have educated and insipred. People, who wish they could take on and take away the pain for you. My heart aches for you, but I know Jacob is in heaven. Jacob was heaven.

shaina, adi and jordan,
jacob was so truly lucky to have all of you. and we all are so lucky to have had jacob in our lives. he and all of you have touched so many people. i will remember jacob forever and wish you all nothing but strength, love and peace. my heart is breaking with yours.
love, rebecca

Shaina, Adi and Jordan: My heart is breaking, knowing what you are feeling today. I would never wish this feeling that I am so familar with on anyone. I know you are grateful for the time you had and that you hold that time ever precious within your hearts. Jacob will always be an amazing part of your lives and has left a life long impression of unconditional love and affection in your hearts and mind. These next hours, days and months, years will not be easy and time does not heal these wounds. Time just teaches us how to cope with the life that has been dealt us. Life will just be different now, Jacob would want you to continue to live it to the fullest and thrive on the love you shared with him and the memories you hold near and dear forever more. All of my love and tears. Susan

We are so saddened at the news of Jacob's passing. He was indeed lucky to have a mommy and aba like you and adi, as well as a big sister like Jordan. Although we never met Jacob, he has left a great impression on our lives. We will all miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now and always. Much love, Beth, Steve, and Sam

If love could have saved that beautiful Jacob Isaac, he would have outlived us all. My heart breaks alongside of yours. I hope you find peace and comfort among friends and your wonderful families. We will never forget him. We love you all and our thoughts are most certainly with you.

Dear Family,
My prayers are with you. Our loss is etched forever in our hearts.

Shaina, Adi, Jordan, and families,
Although I never met Jacob personally I can say that he changed my life. The stories that you have shared over the past few months of this wonderful, brave little boy have touched so many people. I am so sorry about your loss this morning. May he rest in peace. Sending our love, Julie, Todd and Sage

Dear Shaina, Adi, and Jordan,
We just wanted to let you know that our love and support is with you today and always. Beautiful Jacob will always be in our hearts. We are here if you need us. All our love and hugs, Hayley, Joe, Jacob, and Sammy

My heart is heavy this morning. We send all our love and strength to you. I know that nothing seems comforting right now and words seem hollow, but words are all I have to convey to you that we're here and we understand. If I lived closer I'd give you a hug.

From everyone at Plantation High School who have come to love little Jacob and admire his very brave struggle, we wish the family peace and strength. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.

We send you our love and prayers. Our thoughts are with you in this time of great sorrow. Words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss. Your's and Jacob's courage and love are an example to us all. We will never forget it.

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan and Family,
Our hearts, prayers and love are with you all.
Love, Judy and Harlan

Dear Shaina,Adi & Jordan-
Our hearts go out to you and your family. Being a part of Jacob's life has been a gift. In his short time here, he has taught so many people about love, strength and courage. In so many ways he will be ours and so many others "little hero". We feel lucky to have shared in his smiles and will miss him very much. We are always here for you. We Love You!!!

My heart is filled with such sadness thinking about your loss. I will always remember Jacob's sweet smile and all of the special memories you've shared over the past months. Our love to you and your families during this difficult time. Jennifer, Eric, Maddy and Mason

Shaina, Adi, Jordon and the rest of your families-I am so sorry to hear about Jacob this morning. He was the bravest person I have ever met. He touched everyone who knew him and made each of us better people.
Jacob-I am thankful for having the chance to know you. You will never be forgotten.
Love-Uncle Josh

I am so very very sorry. Your little boy was such an inspiration to so many people...many hearts will forever be broken. I never met him, but he changed my life, and will remain in my heart forever. Our deepest heartfelt sympathies go out to your families.

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan and Families- We are so sorry to hear that your precious Jacob has passed away this morning. From our family to yours-our heartfelt sympathies. We love you. Susie & Barry

Shaina & Adi,

I am extremely sorry about the loss of Jacob. If you could see the tears welling up in my eyes, you'd know that you have my deepest sympathy.

David Hamman

We were so saddened this morning to hear about Jacob. Although we have never met him, he will live in our hearts forever. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I feel we are better parents and people for having known Jacob through your eyes. We send you and Jordan lots of strength, love, and support. With love, Stephanie, Adam, and Alana Starr

Thank you for sharing Jacob's journey with us! He gave us hope and strength yet again. He will forever be in our hearts! May his stength, smile, and beautiful eyes comfort you in the days ahead! We are thinking of you! Love, Lisa

It's a gloomy, cloudy day in Athens today. When Lois called at 8:00 am, I discovered why. The light of our families' life--our sweet, precious Jacob--has gone out. There is no sunshine today. Thankfully, we have wonderful memories to sustain us. Bless you, Shaina and Adi and Jordan, for sharing your world and your beloved son with all of us.

All of our love to you and your familiy during this difficult time. Our thoughts of Jacob will always be of a beautiful little boy with the courage of a hero.

Jacob touched so many lives in such a short time. Thank you for sharing his and your lives with us. I'm so glad I got to meet Jacob at the family reunion. His eyes will forever be imprinted in my mind - so big -as if he was soaking up all the life around him. I wish you lots of strength and love to complete this journey together. Know that all of us stand by you and share your loss each in our own way. Lots of Love, Avra

Jacob touched so many lives in such a short time. Thank you for sharing his and your lives with us. I'm so glad I got to meet Jacob at the family reunion. His eyes will forever be imprinted in my mind - so big -as if he was soaking up all the life around him. I wish you lots of strength and love to complete this journey together. Know that all of stand by you and share your loss each in our own way. Lots of Love, Avra

Shaina and Adi - Mommy and Aba - words cannot express my sadness this morning. Linda

Shaina, Adi, and Jordan
We are so sorry for your loss. You must know how lucky Jacob was to have the support and love that you all gave him. We are confident one day the research and awarness that you have spread about SMA will surley be used to save a child from this terrible disease. I wish we could take away your pain. If there is anything that we can do please do not hesitate to ask. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. With much love!!!!

I am so sorry for your loss. It was lovely to see you and meet Jordan and Jacob, though only for a few moments, at the family reunion, and I will forever remember Jacob's angelic face and beautiful smile. Thank you and bless you for sharing his short but inspirational life with us. Karen

Sending our prayers and love to you. xoxox

i just wanted you to know i am thinking about you.

I love you and I am thinking about you often.
love
aunt jessica

Happy 9 month bday Jacob!!! We are always thinking of you guys. We are excited for Jordan's bday party. We love you.

Happy nine month Birthday Jacob! Shaina, your love note about Adi was so beautiful. Keep it forever. Lots of hugs to all of you.

Happy Birthday Jacob. I think about the 4 of you and your extended families all the time.

Happy 9 month birthday Jacob! What a joy to celebrate! Hugs and kisses to you all! Love,

Yesterday i spent the morning with shaina and jordan. we went to the museum and the mall. when we got home, adi and jacob were waiting for us. Adi had taken the balloons jacob received for his birthday and put them all around him. He loved the little balloon world that adi had created for him, jacobs eyes are so expressive. Two of the balloon strings were warpped around jacobs tiny hands. He would lift his fist off the ground which caused the balloons to move up and down, he was all smiley. If jacob didn't have SMA this moment might have been insignificant. I can't really explain the way it made me feel, but it is a scene i will never forget, and will treasure forever.
I love you

dear jordan and jacob,
i miss you so much when i am not there. i love you sooooooooooo much.

Dear Jacob, we are praying for you and for your family. We do hope you have had a nice day yesterday = 9th month birthday.

HAPPY 9 MONTH B-DAY JACOB. NEXT TIME EAT SOME FROSTING FOR ME!!! i JUST WANTED TO WRITE A LITTLE NOTE JUST TO LET YOU ALL KNOW I am THINKING ABOUT YOU ALL EVERYDAY. SHAINA THE LETTER YOU WROTE TO ADI IS TRUELY BEAUTIFUL. i ADMIRE YOUR RELATIONSHIP SO MUCH, AND COULD ONLY HOPE THAT ONE DAY i WILL FIND THAT PERSON THAT YOU FOUND IN ADI. I PROMISE TO STOP LOOKING FOR HIM FOR AWHILE. I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH. I am MISSING YOU ALL.
LOVE ALWAYS,
AUNT JESSICA
PLEASE GIVE A BUG HUG AND KISS TO JACOB AND JORDAN.

Shaina, Adi, Jordan and Jacob,
Happy 9 month birthday to Jacob!! What a strong little boy you have ! You should be so proud. I know you said it in one of your previous updates, but Jacob has really taught us all so much. I only know your family through mutual friends, but Jacob has touched me so much. It is so incredible how one little baby can do so much for so many people. He is truly a blessing and you guys are so lucky to have him in your life.
Love, One of the many "Jacob Junkies,"
Jessica Strikowski

Keep up the good work. You are all doing great. You are incredable people.

dear jacob,

happy 9 month birthday! we're so glad that you enjoyed your treats.

we love you.

Dear Jacob, Happy 9 month birthday!! We hope you had a great day! Have a good night and we are sending all of you lots of hugs and kisses.
lots of love, Hayley, Joe, Jacob, and Sammy
P.S. How was the frosting???

Happy Birthday, Jacob! Love and warm thoughts to the whole family!

Happy nine month birthday Jacob! Thinking about you guys today and everyday and we hope that you enjoy your day. My thoughts are with you---Lauren

happy happy nine months, jacob!
i think about you and your mommy, daddy, and sister every day!

Hi Guys, I just watched the video from the tv report. What an awesome job you did to help raise awareness for this horrible disease. Jacob is SO CUTE! I think about you guys, especially little Jacob, alot. I lost your phone number so I haven't been able to call. Make sure to call me if you want to talk. Love, Gina

Happy 9 month birthday Jacob!! Enjoy the frosting that your mommy gives you! And save some for Jordan. We hope you have a great day filled with lots of smiles and love. Sending lots of birthday hugs and kisses your way!

Happy 9-month Birthday, Jacob.

HAPPY 9 MONTH BIRTHDAY JACOB!!! We hope you have a great day filled with lots of love and smiles. We Love You!!!

Jacob, Happy 9 month birthday! We hope the whole family enjoys the yummy birthday treat. Jordan, your three year birthday is right around the corner. We wish we were able to celebrate both birthday celebrations! Have a terrific day! We love and miss you!

I was just looking at the new photos. The new pictures really show that Jacob and Adi are such great "buddies". I believe also in "beshert". The fact that you guys came together and created your special family is no accident. I am sure that it was planned that you guys and jordan were sent to be the very best "hosts" for jacobs stay. It is so clear through your words and images that your love runs deep for one another. Again as always my thoughts are always with you and your family. love jolie

Shaina, what handsome fellows you have in your life. We love the latest pictures. Today we were able to see the tape of Friday's news segment on "Jacob's Story". (Thank you Aunt Lisa) The segment was beautiful. Additionally, it was wonderful to be able to see up to date pictures of the entire Rappoport family. Infact, we have one of the same pictures that you showed of Jacob on our refrigerator, right next to the picture of Jordan in her GATOR shirt, and we admire these pictures everyday. Furthermore, we especially loved Jordan's "Jacob Cheer" at the end of the segment. You are all amazing for sharing your privacy with others to help spread awareness of SMA. We wish very much that we were closer to you and could give you hugs everyday and make many visits. Please remember that you are all in our thoughts and prayers always! We love you!

I am glad you have Adi, and Adi is so lucky to have you as well. Just the fact that you want to comfort others on this web site really is remarkable. Thank you for letting us visit this morning. I loved seeing you and Jacob. Whenever you want company--which I know you are never lacking of--or anything else, just call. Kisses to you all, and a "what's up" to my "girlfriend" Adi. Hope Jacob has a good night.

Dear Shaina, Your love note to Adi was so beautiful--it really touched me. The new pictures of your boys are so cute I can't even stand it! You are amazing--you all are amazing--and so blessed to have each other. All my love and kisses, Hayley

Dear Shaina, I love your newest pictures of your "Hunksters". They are beautiful. Your words to Adi were a thing of beauty to read and very moving. Thank you for sharing. Sending you love. xoxox

Dear Shaina,
I love the pictures of your two handsome guys! I just saw your "star" on video and thought the segment was wonderful. Thank you for continuing to share your special family with us. Our love, thoughts and prayers are with you all.
xoxo Judy & Harlan

we are here spending time together and just wanted to log on and tell you how much we love you.

The new pictures of Adi and Jacob are priceless and so is the letter you shared with us this morning. Yours and Adi's ability to share your most deepest thoughts and feelings with all your family and friends is truly amazing. You are truly an inspiration to us all!!!Hugs and Kisses

I love the note you wrote to Adi today. From the moment I met you both, I always knew that you two share a very special bond with each other. Your love and devotion shine through in everything you do and in your children. The new pictures of Adi and Jacob are beautiful! That makes two "handsome devils!" Give Jordan and Jacob a BIG hug & kiss from Aunt Lisa before bed tonight. I love you all so much! I am grateful to have you in my life. I am here for you always! Love, Lisa

Unfortunately, Jay and I were away for a long w/e and we missed Jacob's T.V. debut. Hopefully, I'll be able to link up and watch it on the computer. I am so sorry to hear about little Sawyer...let him rest in peace. Shaina, thanks for sharing today your little love note to Adi. I, too, married my best friend (over 34 years ago) and I truly understand how wonderful it is to be able to share everything (good, and not-so-good) with your best friend. Just keep going one day at a time! Linda

What a beautiful love letter you wrote Adi this morning. As usual, thank you for being so selfless by sharing it with us all. You are our heroes and obviously true "beshert" to one another. I am personally so thankful that G-d led me to know such wonderful, amazing, beautiful people. As always sending you lots of love and hugs and kisses to Jacob and Jordan--the cutest kids on TV!

I was listening to James Taylor the other day and I thought of you - the last time we saw you was outside the James Taylor concert. It seems so long ago.
We were so sorry to hear about Sawyer, may he rest in peace.
What beautiful thoughts you wrote, you make us all feel so lucky to be a part of your lives.
We're thinking of you all with much love.

Hi Rappoports! Sorry it has been a couple of days. First, I want to say that your family was just beautiful on T.V. The story was done nicely and I hope it helps to spread awareness to others so that one day there WILL be a cure! When I saw Jordan I laughed so hard I thought it would wake up Adam. She is such a cutie pie! Jacob looked very handsome in his little man shirt - he is quite the little "star."
We are so sorry to hear about Sawyer. We want to express our deepest sympathy to Amy & Jason Smith. Our family sends them love and we are praying for them. I know that you will both continue to be a source of inspiration and strength for each other.You are all so strong!
Last, I want to remind you that I have a batch of fresh baked chocolate chip cookies here for Adi. So let me know a good time and I will be happy to deliver them and hang out with Jacob for a while! YUM! YUM!
By the way, the pictures of Jaccob's space station look great! Also, I am so gald that you are happy with your new nurse. Try to get a little rest. Let me know if you need ANYTHING! We are ALWAYS here for you!
Thinking of you always,
Aunt Lisa, Lewis, & Adam

Greetings Rappoports...just wanted to say a quick hello and let you know I was thinking about you guys. So sorry to hear about the loss of your friend Sawyer...I'm sure it must be tough. But you are all so great at keeping your heads up...thanks as always for the inspiration and I hope and pray that you are all doing as well as you can. Love, Erin

I was watching the Emmy's last night and was expecting to see the Ambassador there, as it sounds he has turned into quite the media star! Your openness, strength, and courage continue to amaze and inspire me. You constantly write about the marvels of Jacob's determination, personality, and stregth. It is clear that he got that from his amazing parents! My thoughts and prayers are with you daily.

So glad to be able and come back from a weekend away and catch up on all of the Jacob moments! I can't wait to see him on TV when I come home for Jordan's B-day. You are always in my thoughts and prayers, and I can't wait to see you all. Hey Jacob- How about them Gators? Love you all.
Love, Uncle Joe

dear loved ones...how touched are jason and i that you should include sawyer in your thoughts and discussions! even though sawyer is running with the angels now, i am so proud to have him associated with the "tv star" family and ambassador jacob!!! we love you all and thank you, adi, shaina, jordan, and jacob for fighting the good fight. strength and courage to you all!!!

We saw the tv spot this weekend and we all thought it was done so nicely. It is wonderful that you were able to share your story with everyone and hopefully more will be done regarding sma. Jordan was a true ham and Jacob looked beautiful,as always. The two of you didn't look so bad yourselves! Adi mentioned to Rachel and I on Friday about the loss of your friend's son. I am so sorry to hear this. As always, we are all thinking of you guys and looking forward to having coffee and a Jacob visit this week. Take care.

i know that hearing the news about sawyer must be so hard. i cant even imagine how that feels to get that kind of information. i will be thinking about sawyer and his family. i just heard the song "wind beneath my wings" by bette miller and i coulndt help but think of the two of you. you both truely are my heros. i love you all so much i cant wait to see the famous family. if sawyers mom and dad are anything like the two of you(which i am sure they are)i know sawyer is going to be remembered and loved forever. i am thinking about you and the rest of the families who are everyday living with the horribliness(not sure if that is a word)of sma. shaina and adi i love you both so much. give a huge hug and kiss to jacob and jordan for me. whenever i think about jacob and jordan i fell that they are so lucky to have parents like the two of you. i miss you guys and cant wait to come down in two weeks.
thinking of you always
love
aunt jessica

thank you for continuing to share your lives with all of us. i am so sorry for the loss of sawyer. although i have never met the smiths, i know they have been a source of inspiration to the both of you and that you have found some comfort in the sharing of the lives of your little guys. i am thinking of sawyer and his family. i am sending love and healing thoughts.

Just thinking of you and hoping we can get together this week. Hugs and Kisses!!!(By the way, Can we have an autographed picture of the "TV Star Family"?)

Your TV segment was aired again today!!! (we weren't sure if you knew) It was really special... (as are you guys).
We're very sorry to hear about Sawyer. He and his family will be in our thoughts and prayers tonight.
We love you and think about you everyday.
Love,
Debbie and Doug

dear family, the tv segment was magical. your love and courage was absolutlely radiant, made brighter still by how your genuineness shone through every word and gesture. jacob was beautiful!i couldn't believe that gorgeous baby filling up the tv screen was my grandbaby. and how about that future "american idol" star?

oops again!!!i am sorry that i am not able to see jacob and jordan on tv but i am sure i will be able to see a tape soon enough. i cant wait to come and see you all. i love you and i am thinking about you always.
love
aunt juicy

We just finished watching. I wanted to call, and Dean told me no. Jacob is so so so beautiful, and you are both so strong! Jordan was absolutely a riot and made us laugh. As usual, we will be thinking of you all! We are proud to know you and call you friends. Love to all of you.

Shaina and Adi, the world truly is a nicer place with people like you in it. We think you are amazing for opening up your personal lives to make others aware of SMA and help find a cure. We can't wait to see the tape, and we look forward to seeing the news article as well. We love and miss you! Please give Jordan and Jacob a big hug and kiss for us!

Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Shaina, Adi, Jordan and especially Jacob -you are all just so truly truly special. Sharing this web page with everybody is incredible. But to go on televsion and to the newspapers with your's and Jacob's story while you are all going through so much as a family - I can't imagine a more selfless act. The world is so lucky to have you.

Hi Shaina,
Lisa told me about the web page, it's beautiful. Let me know if you need anything since I am right around the corner. Max and I would love to come see you soon!
Love,
Amy

I have become a Jacob Junkie - I can't seem to get enough info. Thanks for sharing all that you do! I will definitely be tuned in at 11:00 tonight for Jacob's debut on T.V. What a star!
Linda

We will be tuned in to watch the segment on Jacob and sma. You never cease to amaze me!! Thinking of you and sending hugs. We love you.

I am glad to hear that you enjoyed the soup-now I know that I will be making more soon!I am looking forward to the exposure that Jacob will soon be getting. It is so important for people to learn more about sma. Glad to hear that the new nurse is working out. As always,Mark and I , and the kids are thinking of you all.

I just wanted to let you know how beautiful I think the idea is about Jacob being like a shooting star. I do believe you are sensing something that connects us all. My love to your family. Marlene

Just to let you know that our thoughts, and prayers, are with you and your lovely family.

Hi to everyone! I was glad to hear that Jacob had a good day today. Hope the new nurse works out tonight. Hope to see you again soon. Lots of Hugs and Kisses for Jacob & Jordan! Love, Lisa

Just thinking of you guys today as always, and hoping Jacob enjoyed Sesame Street and his stories with his smiling mommy this morning. We wish we didn't live so far away, so that we too could see the amazing Rappoports in action (and lend a hand here and there). We're looking forward to seeing Jacob on TV when Steve's uncle in Palm Beach sends us the tape. Please give Jacob and Jordan lots of smooches, tickles, and laughs from their pals in San Francisco. Lots of love always. XOXOXO ; )

i love you and i am thinking about you all always.
love
jess

Thinking of you...
Love,
Loren

we work with Reed and Adriana, Reed told us about your site and we went on this morning. Jacob is a lovely child and we were touched by your words. We hope god blesses all of you with strength and pray for a miracle to guide all of you through this time.

Zuzel and Leslie.

Shaina & Adi,

When I first talked to Adi about a month ago, I really didn't know what to say in regards to "dealing/handling" the same situation I was in just a year and a half ago. And to tell you the truth, I still don't know what advice I have for you. But I want you both to know that you are "dealing/handling" this "situation" extremely well (side note: I don't really like calling it a "situation"…Jacob is not a "situation"…he's a beautiful boy.). You are doing exactly what you should be doing: Living each day, each minute, each second….to it's fullest. From this web site I have gathered that you fully understand the gift you've been given and you are treasuring that gift to the best of your ability. And what more can you expect from Parents than to treasure the gifts they have been given? Nothing else, in my humble opinion, and you two are more than worthy to take care of this very special treasure.

Thinking of you often. Take care.

Dear Shaina and Adi,

I think you are the most amazing parents.

Dear Jordan,
Give me hug and kiss......pleeeeeeeeeeese?!

Dear Jacob,
Keep giving those smiles.
I love you all.

Hey Guys,
I'm so sorry we missed you yesterday! I hope Jacob's feeding tube is doing OK. We hope that you are able to enjoy the holiday together and maybe we can try to get together again next Sunday! Love to you all and an extra kiss for Jacob!

Shaina, Adi, Jordan and Jacob -
We wanted to tell you that we were thinking of you and said special prayers in synagogue for all of you this Yom Kippur. Your strength is an inspiration to all! Hayley keeps me updated all the time! Please know that you are all in our thoughts! Take care!
Michelle, Rob, Justin and Jillian Bamdas

Dear Shaina and Adi-
Thank you for sharing your pictures. They are beautiful. You are in my thoughts and prayers always. Much love, Terry

Jacob is an amazing little man! I'm thinking of you all.
XOXO,
MARCY

Thinking of you always! Please let me know if there is anything we can do to help. Adam & I had fun with Jordan yesterday. I was so proud of her using the potty (even though getting her underwear back on was another story). I love to spend time with your family - so anytime you need me just ask!!! We love you! We can't wait for Jacob's big T.V. debut on Thursday. XOXOXO
Love, Lisa, Lewis, and Adam

Shaina and Adi-
Thinking of you and your beautiful family....
always in my thoughts....

Shaina,
Thank you for sharing the pictures of Jacob and your family. You are all so beautiful. I love the analogy. Just know that I am thinking of you all and that I am always here if you need to talk.
Love, Jessica

We love the beautiful new pictures and the beautiful metaphor! Thinking of you always!

Sending love to you all. Love Susie and Barry xoxox

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan and Jacob-

I love you, and think about you every moment. Can't wait to see everyone tomorrow!

sending love to ALL my "stars" (shaina and adi, strong, beautiful guiding stars, jordan,twinkling, dancing star, jacob, precious, smiling, shooting star), you brighten my life and lift my spirits.

loved seeing you, jordan, and jacob the other day.wanted to kiss all of you. thought about your whole family the rest of the day...and always!!love u all xoxo

P.S. I am now an official "Jacob Junkie!" I am so excited to be on his site that I want to tell you again that I love you guys. Thank you for sharing your story - it has made everyone see the true miracles in life. XOXOXOXO Hugs & Kisses to your entire family! Love, Lisa

It is so good to finally see Jacob's website in person. The pictures of your family are so beautiful! We are sorry it has taken us so long to get online but you know that we have been staying informed and that we are ALWAYS thinking of Jacob and your family. You are all so srong and so brave and a true inspiration to everyone around you. We are so lucky to have you as our friends.
I want to thank you for having me over last weekend - it is such a blessing to spend time with Jacob. His smile just melts my heart! The way he stares at Adam, how they play together, and the way he reacts so excitedly to his big sister Jordan ... I am priveleged to know him, love him, and have this quality time with him. I also really enjoyed watching Jacob's bath a couple of weeks ago (and chasing Jordan "Willy Wonka" around the house for chocolates). He was so relaxed and so peaceful and Jordan is always fun to tickle and chase. These moments are so special to me and I will treasure them forever!
Please know, Shaina and Adi, that you are in our thoughts and in our prayers. We will pray for Jacob's comfort in synagogue on Monday. We are always here for you! WE LOVE YOU LOTS!!!
Love,
Lisa, Lewis, and Adam Birnbaum

Thinking of you and what an inspiration you and your family are to us all! Remembering to make everyone moment count! Every day is special in its own way! Love The Pearson Family, L.A.

Hey there guys. I read Shaina's message about Jacob being a "Shooting Star". That is just beautiful. Check out www.starregistry.com. I have actually seen the finished product, and they are just gorgeous. Jacob can have a star named for him! They send coordinates and a very special certificate and package. In any event, looking forward to seeing Jacob on t.v. I always think about the special day I got to babysit him. Miss him and you guys. Love, Rachel

i forgot to mention those new pictures are the BBAAA!!!!

i never thought i would love coming to school!!! not only do i love it but i come here more often than i have to to sign on. who would have thought? here i am sitting in the library crying at the beautiful messages that have been written.if people are watching me they must think i'm nuts.with each message i think to myself how grateful i am to be a part of this loving family. shaina and adi you are both so amazing. i know how hard these last few weeks have been.i am thinking about you all the time.give jacob and jordan a huge kiss from me. you both are inspirations to everyone. i miss you all everyday. i love you so much
love
aunt jessica

The new pictures of Jacob are adorable and it was so nice to spend some quality time with you and Jacob the other morning. Jordan put a huge smile on my face the other day when Justin and I drove her home and her singing was just too cute! You all are an inspiration to us all. Your family is always in our thoughts.

those new pictures of Jacob are so cute I can't even stand it!!!!
All my love, Hayley

As always, we are thinking about you. Your analogy of the stars is beautiful. Each time we look at the stars we will think of your remarkable family. All of our love! Jodi,Danny, and Matthew Siff

Thinking of you all every day and love seeing your pictures! Sending our love, hugs and prayers

I love the new pictures of Jacob. He is absolutely beautiful. He is definitely "TV Star" material. Please give Jacob and Jordan hugs and kisses from all us. Love You- Rikki

Shaina, Adi, Jordan & Jacob,
Your family is BEAUTIFUL! Enjoy every minute. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
xoxo,
Marcy

please give jacob and glenda (aka jordan) a BIG HUG from us.

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan, and Jacob: I'm Hayley's mom and we've met at different birthday parties so I feel that I know you. Hayley has been telling me about Jacob for several months, but I was especially moved to see all these fabulous pictures. What a beautiful family! And all your notes--about the great moments and the not-so-great ones--are truly a love story. You are a remarkable family, all four of you, and I stand in awe of your strength and courage and love. You are in my thoughts often, and in my special prayers this week in the synagogue. Bless you all. Alyce

Adi, Shaina, Jordan, Jacob, I LOVE YOU...Your strength is my inspiration...

Shaina and Adi--We just wanted to let you know that you all are in our thoughts, prayers, and in our hearts every single day. You two are the most unbelievable parents. You are right--Jacob (and Jordan) will never know anything but love. Your love and devotion to your children has been an inspiration to us. You have truly touched our lives. We hope you know that we truly care and we are here if you need us.
All our love, Hayley, Joe, Jacob, and Sammy

We love you and we're always here for you. We are so excited to see you again this weekend. Tell Jordan to be ready for another "Michaelson Adventure"!!! XOXOXO

We just wanted to let you know you are on our minds and in our prayers always! We love and miss you. Hugs and Kisses!

Dear Shaina, Adi and beautiful babies,
Sending you thoughts, prayers and love. Thank you for sharing and for reminding us what miracles really are! Love, Judy

I just wanted to let you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers everyday. I check this site everyday to see how ALL of you are doing. All my love. MB

I was just catching up since the birthday; sounds like it's been a rough couple of weeks. I still pray for him (and all of you) every day. God is working overtime on your little miracle baby and your messages convey how much you are learning from Him through Jacob. My love to all of you.

This whole week has been (rosh hashana, 9-11 anniversary) such a time for reflection.
It has also been a time to treasure all the blessings that have been granted to you.
Your ability to cherish this time and grasp what is so precious to you is inspiring. It is truly generous of your family to share your experience and lessons because it brings it all home what is so important in life.
Jacob and Jordan are so fortunate to have the both of you to teach them what "family" is all about.
I am in awe of your dignity and strength at this very difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you every day. love jolie

to my beautiful family. loving you each and every moment.

We love you and think of your beautiful family everyday. Tons of hugs and kisses to all of you.
Love,
Debbie & Doug

Just a short message to let you know that you four are in my prayers daily.
Linda

I only know the two of you from our days at UF, and even then we did not know each other very well. However, I must admit I have become a "Jacob Junkie". Your family has touched me so much. I am so inspired by your strength and your love for one another. I may hardly know you, but I have to say you are the most amazing family I have ever seen. Thank you so much for sharing your story. As always, your family continues to remain in my thoughts and prayers.

Shaina, Adi, Jacob and Jordan- Thinking about you, and just writing to tell you I LOVE YOU!!!

Shaina, Adi, Jordan, and Jacob: I am glad to have finally seen this site, the pictures, and the most recent news from you. I felt from your description of the family "dance" how precious such moments are to you all, and got a sense of what good parents you are, under any circumstances: a real blessing for Jordan and Jacob. Sincerely, Pat and All of Us in Winter Park

Shaina and Adi-
After having read through every message on this site, I feel even sadder that I am so far away and have not had the chance to meet Jacob (yet!) and see you both with him. The general consensus seems to be that not only is he an extremely special boy, but that bearing witness to the courage, strength and love that you both exhibit each and every day is even more special. This, of course, comes as no surprise to me or anyone else who knows you and your family because of the people who you both are. Jacob is blessed to have been born to you as you are blessed to have been given him. The beauty with which you described the miracle of Jordan rubbing lotion on her little belly will forever change the way I look at little Kaia, who by the way is also very into lotion belly-rubbing. Babbling on, but the whole point is that I think of you all often and want you to know that all of you are in my thoughts and prayers.

PS Shaina, did I read that you are pumping for Jacob? My sister will be so happy!

Shaina and Adi
I just learned about this site. I can't believe it took me so long to meet Jacob. He's beautiful...like Jordan. I think about you often. Happy New Year and I wish you all the best.
xoxoxo

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan and Jacob- Thinking of you--sending prayers--sending love . . . xoxox

Always thinking of you. We Send you our love and strength.

shaina...jacob has been in my thoughts and prayers...your grandmother(lois) never stops raving about how beautiful he is...love to your family...carolyn

Hi! I don't know if you remember me but I'm one of Jessica's first roommates at Grover in Winter Park--actually her first roommate.

Anyway, you and your family have been in my prayers and thoughts. Knowing and loving Jessica (at this point, Jessica is coaching me to write that knowing and loving her is the best thing that has ever happened to me. I know you all are not surprised.) Anyway, I send my love and prayers. Hope your holiday was beautiful!

Dear Shaina, Adi, Jordan, and Jacob-

I think of you every day. This website is just so amazing!
Thank you for sharing the warmth and love that is part of your very special family.

Love,
Barry

Shaina, the love you and your husband feel for Jacob and Jordan shows in the pictures and every word you write. There's nothing more important. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Family is such a precious gift. How our hearts go out to you as you bravely care for your son. Your love and devotion to him, adorable Jordan and each other is a lesson for us all. You are in our hearts and prayers.