In Loving Memory...

A contagious smile radiated for all to see but it was Jessie's courageous spirit that captivated my heart. Who would have ever known that a 12 year old little girl would impact so many. Jessie learned what so few really ever grasp...that one person really can make a difference.

When Jessie was diagnosed with 2 inoperable brain tumors, instead of cowering, she courageously stepped forward to encourage other kids fighting cancer to never ever give up!

Jessie along with the help of her father, Erik Rees and a team of advisers, formed NEGU, a non-profit organization committed to care for courageous kids fighting cancer. You can learn more about their Mission, Method, Motto and Message at: http://www.thenegufoundation.org/

Yesterday, I read a message on facebook by Jessie's father that truly grieved my heart:

"Dear friends...we have prayed and prayed and prayed for sweet Jessie to be healed here on earth but God's plan was to use heaven for healing. Jessie earned her wings today and is with Jesus now!!! No pain..complete vision...spreading joy. Please pray for our family as we walk out of the valley of death and towards the mountain top. We will let everyone know of her celebration service as arrangements are made. Please join us in carrying on her joyful spirit and Never Ever Give Up attitude. Much love, Erik, Stacey, Shaya and JT"

Jessica Rees born April 8, 1999, went to her eternal home, yesterday, January 5, 2012.

As the Executive Director at Women Inspired and His Love Extended Ministries I am committed to partner with NEGU Foundation to ensure Jessie's dream of giving 50,000 JOY JARS to other courageous kids fighting cancer comes true. Thus 100 % of any financial gift received today at His Love Extended Ministries will go directly to the NEGU foundation. ($20.00 purchases one joy jar. You can make financial contributions by clicking our donate button on the top right of this blog page.
All my love and prayers go out to the Rees family...and though my heart is saddened at Jessie's passing...I celebrate her life! Jessie grasped the truth of EPHESIANS 2:10--"We are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (NIV) And she lived her purpose COURAGEOUSLY!!!

Dear Friends, one day we will all stand before our Lord and God and give an account for our life. I for one want to join with Jessie's courageous message to NEVER EVER GIVE UP (NEGU)! How about you?

Today, regardless of your battle, regardless of your GIANT, I want to encourage you to PRESS ON! God is near. He works ALL things together for our good! THE TRUTH is...He designed you on purpose for a purpose. Take time to discover that purpose and NEVER EVER GIVE UP!