I was lucky to have met Shanna twenty-five yeas ago, when she was four. For many relationships that lasted so long, you might expect to go through a lot of changes. With Shanna, not so much. When she was four, she was full of humor and energy, and that never changed. She always loved animals, especially cats, and she always thought big. Going through chemotherapy, there were many hard moments. Medical staff would often offer a reward for a needle stick, for example, a sticker. Shanna thought the reasonable reward for a needle stick would be a pony. There were certain things that Shanna could not do. For example, she could not make you angry or annoyed. At least, not if you were a human being. The squirrels and pigeons that she chased may have felt differently. Shanna's love of life was beyond measure. She loved her dozens of stuffed animals, with whom she travelled everywhere, but the great love of her life was her mother, Mary. The love was returned. Many parents of children with special needs find it hard to carry on through the long years of struggle. Mary took care of Shanna with the spirit that one has for the love of one's life. In the most difficult of times, Mary loved being with Shanna, and her delight was clear. I cannot imagine what Mary's life will be like from now on. I only know that she has experienced the greatest love possible, and I hope that treasure will sustain her all her life. With my deepest love and sorrow, Dr. Jean

God of unfailing compassion, in your creative love and tenderness you gave us Shanna so full of hope, love and humor. You are the source of all our lives, the strength of all our days. You did not make us for darkness and death but to see you face to face and to enjoy abundant life. Help us to comfort her mother Mary Lou, the entire family and one another with the consolation we ourselves receive from you; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

I had the privilege of working with Shanna the last 3 years. Shanna was always smiling and happy. I will miss her jokes during our life plan meetings. Thoughts and prayers are with her family, especially her mom. Xoxo Augie

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.