Some of you may have been following posts and updates about 12 year old Cas. Last week, Cas’ 4 year battle with Ewing’s Sarcoma ended. Cas is now free of pain and running and playing in Heaven. This child made an incredible impact on so many people in his short life. Putting it simply, Cas showed us how to LIVE WITH JOY!
I know Cas will be deeply missed by his family, friends, classmates, and his school and church communities.
I wanted to send a sympathy card to Cas’ family, but none of the cards I had in my stash seemed right for those grieving the death of a a young child. This meant I had to make one, and I hate making sympathy cards when I need them. I just do. And I had never made or sent a sympathy card for a young child. BUT, it was very important to me that I did.
I started thinking about what I knew about Cas. He was always happy and wanting to make others happy. He had a bright smile and joyful spirit. AND his favorite color was red. His family even requested people wear red to Cas’ memorial service in his honor.
SO, the color red is where I started, and this is the card I came up with. No, it’s not a typical sympathy card with its red, green, and blue color combination and its polka dots and plaid. I do, however, think it reflects Cas Love of Life and his Joyful Spirit,. I hope when his family receives it, they know it was made specifically with Cas in mind.
Sentiments are from the Prayers & Promises Stamp Set.
Although the layout of this card is simple, but it was a tough card to make, especially with me trying to make sure my tears were not landing on my paper. I am glad I made it, though, and hope it brings a smile and some comfort and peace to Cas’ family.
And if you think making and sending a card is no big deal, look at this photo. I think the smile on the face of this very sick child says it all.
Cas in February 2026, with cards sent by me and group of my crafters from the January Creative Escape Weekend. I was told Cas read each and everyone himself.
Live like Cas. Live with Joy.
Mary Knabe
Bless Cas as he now is playing with the angels. Special prayers for Cas and the family. Thank you for sharing. The card is beautiful. Rachel Infante in Colorado
I love that. My first week of LOA (pre-real-retirement which is now in full force… YAY ME!) I had three funerals! ARGH! One was for a darling young lady who was, not only a former student of mine, but my eldest daughter’s best friend’s younger sister. Needless to say, I was making countless cards for that funeral alone. One funeral was my Godfather, so that involved several more and then another dear family friend. I found myself getting very tired of the black, white, grey, brown, blue. palette. So for Josie’s I too moved into bright colors that reminded me of her brilliant life, not her untimely passing.
Thanks for sharing. I’m sorry for yours and their loss. God Bless.
Oh Mary, my heart hurts for you. I think the card you made is perfect for Cas as you said, it captures his spirit and joy and is colorful. Praying for you and all those grieving for comfort and peace.
Thank you, Mary, and your fellow cardmakers, for your compassion and caring. What a wonderful gift that I’m sure Cas’s family will appreciate and cherish. Peace to them and you and yours, as well. Jeneane Webster
Such a beautiful story and a beautiful card – one that Cas will see from Heaven! Red just says it all – JOY – spread it to others – kindness matters – such a special child and God knew he needed him – God bless you Mary!
Good for you, Mary! God bless you and Cas’ family. I think customizing our sympathy cards is a wonderful idea and something I am trying to do more often. I’m also finding it important to remember the grieving loved ones on holidays, milestone events, etc. More reasons to make cards and spread love and joy to others.
Well done, Mary, well done.
I recently “found” your website and was saddened to learn about Cas. I can understand how his family is feeling. Our daughter Andrea died of Extra-osseous Ewing Sarcoma at the age 0f 10 after a 4-year battle. My heart aches for his family. Thanks for all you have done for Cas and his family.
There is nothing more heart breaking and tragic than the loss of a child ! It was a wonderful thing you did – having cards sent to him from all over sending him love and giving him a beautiful smile of thanks !
Well done Mary!
p.s. – I love seeing your beautiful work and inspiration