Sporting Life 10K for Camp Ooch

(March 10, 2015)

Today is the 2nd month since Cass has left us. Last night I had a dream of Cass that she was about 7 years old and she was happily running around in a beautiful forest. We miss her a lot...happy and sad moments!

Our whole family will run the Sporting Life 10k for Camp Ooch this year. Cassidy's EEs and some friends will be running this year to remember Cass. Cass's very best friend Sarah and her family will be participating as well. Also, Steven has run the 10k for Cass a couple times before and will continue this year. Thank you guys for all your support! 

Cass joined Camp Ooch when she was 9 years old and Camp Ooch had been her second home since then. "Camp Oochigeas (Ooch) is a privately funded, volunteer-based organization that provides kids with and affected by childhood cancer with unique opportunities for growth through challenging, fun, enriching and magical experiences."- Camp Ooch 

Taking part in this run is a way for me to get involved with Camp Ooch. It is also an amazing way for my family and friends to remember Cass and to continue her legacy. I encourage you all to join and support this meaningful event. If you are running to remember Cass this year, please let me know ahead by messaging me, emailing me with your address, or finding a way to meet me at the event since we are going to prepare a sign (either a button or a sticker) to put on at the event to remember our Fearless Cassidy for her courageous fight against cancer!

One of the biggest challenges for Cass was running. Other than swimming, she had been training hard with her new running leg since the summer of 2013. One of her goals was to run again and do the 10K one day with her running leg. Our family will fulfill the first goal for her.

(This is an ad for the Sporting Life 10K from last year. Cass was with Sarah and Megan. Pictures of Cass when she was practicing with her running leg at Bloorview Kids Rehab)

It's Chinese New Year...

Cass, it's Chinese New Year today. I bring along your camera wherever I go and take lots of pictures for you! 

Life has a funny way of coming full circle, using our past to influence our future; using our pain to make us grow and to reveal who we are...

"Oh God, help me to see in the prism of my tears, something of the secret of who I am. Give me the courage not only to see what those tears are revealing but to follow where they are leading. And help me to see, somewhere over the rainbow, that where they are leading me home."
 
"Dear God, please let them be happy because it would be hard at first, but there's always a rainbow after the rain. I want them to have the prettiest rainbow ever." 

Cass, my dear daughter, thank you for your prayers...they are always with me...love you and miss you so much!! ‪#‎lovewins‬ ‪#‎fearlesscassidy‬

Thank you all

I would like to thank every single one of you for your thoughtful care and continued support throughout the years.

In the past five to six months, Cassidy had been greatly cheered, in her most difficult time, with your personal visits, encouraging words, tiny do-it-yourself artwork, the FEARLESS paintings and many many other small presents that you sent over. The responses and comments left by friends and many individuals whom we do not know personally have touched us deeply. I will never forget her smile whenever she saw you in her room or received all your generous gifts. All these had made this most painful period of Cass' life a lot more bearable for her and our whole family, encouraged and cheered her greatly and for that I'm forever grateful.

As you may know, one of Cassidy's dreams was to be involved with the upcoming Para PanAm Games. Even though she has now left us, I would like to help her to accomplish her dream. While the details has not been finalized yet, we are setting up a memorial scholarship for para-athletes, an account has been set up to accept donations from those who would like to support such cause. Please feel free to visit her blog for more information and updates . At this moment, we are spending most of our time tending to Cassidy's burial and packing up Cassidy's belongings, though we still find it extremely difficult for us to start reading her journals. May God grant us the peace and courage to start the new chapter in our life and in remembering our beloved daughter.

Your presence, words and acts are like a rainbow that beautifies the sky and enlightens our minds after one long stormy night. We would like to sincerely thank you all again for your never ending support and hope that you will continue to be with us in making Cassidy's dreams come true.

(My last selfie with Cass just a week ago before she passed away)

Sharing at the funeral - by Rob & Rebecca

Sharing for Cassidy Sheng Memorial (January 17, 2015)
“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
Your works are wonderful,
I know that full well” (Psalm 139:14)
 
In a world that can seem ugly you brought beauty because God made you beautiful inside and out. Both of us are so thankful for being part of your journey. There are too many points of grace we have of you, so here’s a few that will forever stand out as wonderful reminders.  
Your journey with cancer has never been simple – something none of us will fully understand. One time you had to go through a 13 hour procedure at the hospital. But throughout this event and your entire journey with cancer you were transparent and honest with all your pains and struggles. You didn’t fake about the pain you were going through, nor did you hide your frustrations. But you chose quality of life over quantity of life. That is, you chose to celebrate and cherish every moment as a gift from God (as best as you could). You chose to trust God in a life that has good and bad moments. In this, you showed us what it means to seek hope only found in God. By this you gave us a beautiful legacy of being Hope-Seekers.
 
Some of us allow our fears and discouragements to stop us from dreaming or just celebrating life. You chose to love the life you had - disability and all. You worked hard and strived forward to see your full potential, and became the woman of God & paralympian you are. You did so without looking back or letting discouragement slow you down. Somehow you knew that if you chose bitterness because of your circumstances, it would slow you down and others too perhaps. You strived to encourage others to love what they have, and not get angry at what they don’t have. In doing so love has won because you enjoyed life to the fullest, and that spirit has been such an inspiration for us. By this you gave us a genuine legacy of being Love-Bearers.
 
You were not afraid to express what’s on your mind, but not disrespectful in what you said. One time we were singing at Sick Kids Hospital and you helped me realize that my goal of singing backup for Taylor Swift was probably not a good idea when you told me, ‘Pastor Rob, I think you should stick with church music’. You were passionate to share important truths to others. It has always been your desire to speak forth the truth of seeing the God-given potential in everyone, regardless of disability, limitation, or circumstance. You’ve been doing this already through your simple, yet profound message – ‘fearless’ - which will be carried onward by us all. By this you gave us a legacy of being fearless Truth-Tellers.
 
In a world that seems so confused and messed up, you have shown us a special beauty through your attitude, your character, and faith – you have given us a glimpse of the glory of God, which is much more beautiful than we realize or understand. One place that Cassidy’s family enjoys going to take pictures is Edwards Garden. The flowers there are always blossoming and colorful. The afternoon before Cass passed away, we were by her bedside and Uncle Gary was showing us some old photos they took at Edwards Garden. Over the years, the type of flowers haven’t changed but became more beautiful – much like you Cass. For you are fearfully and wonderfully made.

Video - Letter to Dearest Brother

Video - Letter to Dearest Brother

Video - Eulogy by Aaron

Video - Fearless Cassidy - Eulogy by Aaron

Letter to My Dearest Brother

My dearest brother,

Thank you Lord, for having blessed me with an incredible brother.

I’ve enjoyed every moment we spent together, growing up together, fighting for Internet access and the iPad. I treasured the moments where we fought for the last piece of lobster on the dinner plate, or even the last piece of cooked garlic.

My dearest brother, I am sorry for having taken everyone’s attention away from you since my 7th birthday when I was diagnosed with cancer on my left leg. While I was adjusting after my amputation, you took care of me, carried me and helped me up and down the stairs.
Sorry, my dear brother, that seven years after my amputation, the cancer came back. God has his own plans for us, but I want you to know that you are always my beloved “boring” brother. I wish I can run around in the playground…bothering you…and I wish to be able to see you graduate from college.

My dear brother, instead of spending hours on the Internet, go outside and look at the world that our God has created. I know you love winter, which is perfect because we have long winters in Ontario. Find some winter activities. And although you don’t like summer, put on a pair of sunglasses, lots of sunblock and go outside to breathe and feel the summer breeze. Pursue your dreams, your love of music, continue to play piano.

I know you will be fine.

With all my love,
Cassidy

Cass, we love you so so so much too!

Cassidy's Good Bye video.

"When Tomorrow Starts Without Me" by David M. Romano  
 
When tomorrow starts without me
And I'm not there to see,
If the sun should rise and find your eyes
All filled with tears for me.
 
I wish so much you wouldn't cry
The way you did today,
While thinking of the many things
We didn't get to say.
 
I know how much you love me
As much as I love you,
And each time that you think of me
I know you'll miss me too.
 
But when tomorrow starts without me
Please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name
And took me by the hand.
 
And said my place was ready
In heaven far above,
And that I'd have to leave behind
All those I dearly love.
 
But as I turned to walk away,
a tear fell from my eye.
For all of life, I'd always thought, I didn't want to die.
I had so much to live for, so much yet to do.
It seemed almost impossible, that I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterday's, the good ones and the bad...
I thought of all the love we shared.
If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while,
I'd say goodbye, then kiss you till I saw that special smile...
 
But when I walked through heaven's gates
I felt so much at home,
When God looked down and smiled at me
From His great golden throne.
 
He said "This is eternity
And all I've promised you",
Today for life on earth is past
But here it starts anew.

I promise no tomorrow
For today will always last,
And since each day's the same way
There's no longing for the past.
 
So when tomorrow starts without me
Don't think we're far apart,
For every time you think of me
I'm right here in your heart.

Video of Fearless Cassidy

The video of Baptism and Testimony that's shown during the funeral service on January 17, 2015.

Thank you card from the family

On behalf of the Sheng family, we would like to express our thankfulness to everyone! We are touched and overwhelmed with the support we have received. A tremendous amount of people came out to bid their last farewell to Cassidy at her memorial service.

With Cassidy's Prayer

Forever Fearless! See you in eternity...

"When a stone is dropped into a lake,

it quickly disappears from sight - but its impact leaves behind.

A series of ripples that broaden and reach across the water.

In the same way, the impact of one life lived for Christ will

leave behind an influence for good that will reach the loves of many others."                                 

 

~Roy Lessin

In loving memory of Cassidy...

"Fill not your hearts with pain and sorrow
but remember me in every tomorrow

Remember the joy, the laughter, the smiles
I've only gone to rest a little while

Although my leaving causes pain and grief
my going has given me relief

So dry your eyes and remember me
not as I am now, but as I used to be

I will remember you all and look on with a smile
Understand, in your hearts
I've only gone to rest a little while

As long as I have the love of each of you
I can live my life in the hearts of all of you"

Cassidy's definition of "fearless"

Please support us and help us to continue Cassidy's story and dream!

http://www.youcaring.com/fearlesscassidy

Canadian Paralympic Committee mourns the loss of Cassidy Sheng

http://paralympic.ca/news-and-events/news/canadian-paralympic-committee-mourns-the-loss-of-cassidy-sheng

Forever Fearless

Many of you have read this, either online or from the paper, already. Here is the link in case you have missed it:

Fearless Cassidy deeply inspired and touched each and everyone who she met or read her story. She cherished every moment she had and she strived to be the best she can be everyday. In times of despair, she always found the silver lining and made the best of any situation. She had a big dream of becoming a Paralympic swimmer, and to inspire others to triumph over adversities like she did. She was a loving sister, daughter, cousin, niece and friend, and cared more about the ones she loved than herself.
Mike Strobel's article regarding Cassidy's passing
http://www.torontosun.com/2015/01/11/forever-fearless

Forever Fearless! Cassidy, we miss you!

Memorial Service details for Cassidy

Memorial Service of Cassidy Sheng

Please join us in a memorial service to celebrate Cassidy’s life.

Service Address: 

Chapel Ridge Funeral Home

8911 Woodbine Ave, Markham, ON, L3R 5G1

Visitation:

Friday,  January 16, 2015- 5pm-8pm

Saturday, January 17, 2015- 10am- 11am

Funeral Service:

Saturday, January 17, 2015- 11am

It is Cassidy’s wish to have all of her family and friends attend her memorial service dressed in dark colours with accessories in the colours of pink or purple. 

In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask you to consider donating to:

http://www.youcaring.com/fearlesscassidy

The Fearless Cassidy Fund

The Fearless Cassidy Fund

Fearless Cassidy deeply inspired and touched each and everyone who she met or read her story. She cherished every moment she had and she strived to be the best she can be everyday. In times of despair, she always found the silver lining and made the best of any situation. She had a big dream of becoming a Paralympic swimmer, and to inspire others to triumph over adversities like she did. She was a loving sister, daughter, cousin, niece and friend, and cared more about the ones she loved than herself.

Even during her last breaths, Cassidy was more concerned about her family’s well-being and future than herself.  Her last wish was hoping her family would be taken cared of. She also told her family that she wanted to leave something in the world for all to remember her by. 

A memorial fund has been set up in remembrance of Cassidy on behalf of the Sheng family.  The fund will be used to help offset Cassidy’s funeral costs in order to extend a hand to the Sheng family during this difficult time.  All remaining donations will be set up as a fund in Cassidy’s name to be used to help other athletes just like Cassidy to support their participation in Para-sports.

On behalf of the Sheng family, we extend our most sincere thank you for your support throughout Cassidy's journey and during this time of grief.

Please click on the Donate button below to make a contribution to the Fearless Cassidy Fund.
Any amount is greatly appreciated. 

You may also donate through the following link:

https://www.youcaring.com/fearlesscassidy

Rest in eternal peace

Cassidy said farewell to us this early morning at 4:45 a.m. We prayed over her as she passed, along with Rob Gin and Shawn Fraser, who spent the night with us. Soon after, we were joined by Emily's House's nurses and the chaplain Jonathan, as well as Rev. Kwong and our other family members and close friends.

Cassidy passed away in peace and comfort as far as we could see. Her breaths slowed very suddenly, but she did not appear in any discomfort or pain at all during this time. We prayed over her from the moment we noticed her breath slowing until those breaths ceased. We believe, as she believed, her faith is now vindicated. She chose to trust and serve The Lord her God, and now she is with Him in eternal peace.

We wish to extend thanks that have meaning no words shall ever quantify. You visited, sent gifts, made food, comforted, prayed, provided in many ways, endured long nights - there is so much more we could say of what you did for Cassidy and the family.

We have reached journey's end. Though we will never know the full picture of God's plan in her life while we remain on Earth, we trust that He has done as His good will has pleased, and borne great fruit from the seeds of her life.

Rest in peace, Cassidy.

Please continue to pray for Andy, Carmen and Aaron.

Sharing by Rob

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;

Your works are wonderful,

I know that full well” (Psalm 139:14) 

“To the one who comes near me, I will show myself holy; Before all the people, I will show my glory” (Leviticus 10:3) 

God gives us messages in different ways – you are one of them Cass. When you shared your baptism testimony it reminded me that everything God created is wonderful and beautiful – it’s his glory; it’s glorious! And that’s what the glory of God means – the beauty & perfection of God shown in all that is created by Him who doesn’t make anything worthless. This is something that’s probably hard to see at times, but this display of beauty has been seen particularly this week, especially when I chose to stop and reflect through a lens of hope and love versus anger and bitterness. 


* ‘Herp…herp…herp’ is the sound of Cass’ current breathing (At the time of this blog entry, Cass is still with us enjoying every breath with God and friends). Short and shallow breaths - difficult to hear & see. But sitting by her bedside – watching & listening – you can notice her resting peacefully. As if to savor every last breath she has. As if to tell us, ‘life is short and bad; remember to stop & celebrate every moment God gives’. 

* Cass has enjoyed when she gets massages and rotations to her arms – not just one, but both arms (something she likes to remind us of). At times, some of us did the motion incorrectly causing slight discomfort. But when together and paying attention to her body’s response, it becomes a beautiful dance with Cass – celebrating one of life’s glorious moments together. As if she’s telling us that, like dancing, to choose selflessness over selfishness because dancing is more fun & flows nicely together, even when both people are different size and strength. Thanks Cass for teaching us the glorious beauty to life’s dance. 

* ‘Fearless continued’. It’s been hard for Cass to communicate to us, and every time it seems draining to just nod her head in response to questions. In spite of this, Cass has asked her family to continue spreading her message of ‘fearless’ to the world. A beautiful request from a beautiful heart. She communicated she wants to leave something bigger in this world. No doubt she has already left a big impact on each person that knows her and her story. Part of her legacy is to be hope-givers because just like love…hope also wins.

Fearless - Love Wins

From FB posting of Opus Gi, who's been at Emily's accompanying the family this week

“Fearless” 

It’s now approaching to 72 hours mark since Cass had said her love and farewell to her family. I am in awe of what’s been happening to this young, cheerful teen, loving sister and student of mine is running in her cancer journey 7 years to this moment. Cass, you are doing your very best, with all your strength to keep going.

Cassidy’s definition of the word “Fearless” is “to be determined and don’t ever give up”. (Dec.21/2014 on her blog) Cass, being here with your family by your bedside these past 3 nights, you are a trooper and brave fighter! God is still doing amazing thing to make you shine in this world. The word “fearless” to Cassidy also means "is not be afraid for The Lord is with us and not against us and “I praise You for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:14.

Cass, what an inspiration you are to so many of us. People all over the world is still praying for you. Love wins!