Perspectives from Close Friends

This page contains the perspectives and impressions from some close friends:

Mady Mitchell Malouf 

These are my thoughts about when I heard about what happened. At first, I was just completely shocked and wasn't sure how serious it was and what it all really meant. I was driving to work when I got the text message from Sydney and I was just kinda in a daze. I felt so helpless! (And still do!) I wanted to be there to help and to at least do something! But I just remember thinking about it all day that day and praying for you. I wanted so badly to bring you flowers or bring some food to your family, or something but I just felt like I was stuck behind a wall, waiting to hear anything.

As time went on, I was always texting my mom or Kaitie to see if they had heard anything. I loved hearing anything about you and how you were improving and how you were doing. When you started the blog, I loved seeing your progress and hearing you and Chris' accounts. It really puts in perspective how far you've come. When I heard about the baby, I felt my heart break! Oh! I just can't imagine! But I know that the Lord has given you this trial because he truly trusts you and I know how much he loves you. He has a plan for you and he is going to keep all of his promises!! I know it!!

I am so so proud of you and how hard you have worked to progress to where you are. When I heard the stories about how the therapists would ask if you wanted to be done and you would keep going, it just made me smile because I wouldn't expect anything less from you Cassie! You have always been a fighter, and I know you will keep fighting! You are amazing! Both you and Chris have had this amazing, incomprehensible trial of faith, but you are truly inspiring people by your example. 

It was so so fun to see you and spend time with you and Chris and your family in May! You are still the same fun, sarcastic and loving friend I've loved for so long, but just a little less chatty. :) I loved seeing you walk down those stairs by yourself! Good for you!

I have felt so helpless in knowing how to help, but I hope you know what a cheerleading squad you have in Texas! We have prayed for you every day since the stroke, and fasted and put your name on the prayer roll several times. 

You are truly inspiring and I am so grateful I know you. I love you so much! 

Ashley Pendleton Clark

When I first received the information of your stroke from your mom, I was shocked and devastated!  How could something like this be happening to you and at such a young age?  I kept asking myself that question.  I remember sitting on my bed and just crying and praying on your behalf, most especially those first few weeks while you were so critical but also then and now for your progress.  I felt so completely helpless.  I didn't know what to do or how to help but I wanted to be by your side helping you through it.  I remember your mom telling me not to come because there wasn't anything I could do so each day I just waited for signs of improvement and for updates.  I knew and know how strong you are and knew you would fight this, but I was sad and scared.

Now, how many months later, you are an inspiration to me!  The way you have improved and keeping giving this trial everything you've got makes me want to be better.  You haven't lost your spunk or your sense of humor and I love that.  You help me appreciate all the things we take for granted and to remember to be strong.

It has been hard living so far away while all this has been happening.  Although it might not seem like it, I think about you all the time.  I pray for you often and I put your and Chris' name in the temple when I go.  I'm so happy for the success of the fireside in July and hope this Bioness device can work miracles.  Giving words of encouragement, you are doing amazing!  Keep fighting!  You are an inspiration with your determination and smile.  Although I am far away I want you to let me know if there is anything I can do!  Sorry I have been absent but I am back and I love you Cassie!  Hope you know I am always here for you.  I remember all of the great memories we've shared and look forward to more in the future.