January 2, 1999 - December 18th, 2003

Jacob was diagnosed November 2, 2000 with a very aggressive cancer called Neuroblastoma and for three years valiantly fought with all his might.

Until September of 2002 I was able to juggle a full time work schedule and Jake’s medical care. With the increasing demands of an intensive treatment regimen, it became apparent that I could no longer continue my employment and give Jacob the necessary care and support he needed.

Scared, and worried how we would make ends meet with the mounting hospital bills and without my salary, I was reassured when I met a man named John Bouk and first learned about Godstock.

I remember asking John Bouk what type of assistance we would be eligible for from Godstock:

“Godstock’s mission is for parents like you to not worry how you will make ends meet…. it’s our job to help you as long as you need help, and concentrate on what is MOST important and that is caring for your child while he is sick”.

That was so powerful to me because I realized at that moment that my prayers had been answered. I have ALWAYS believed that GOD places individuals in your life when you need them the very MOST.

Not only did Godstock relieve some of our monthly financial burdens, but we also gained a huge support network. We are so very blessed; not only for the financial assistance but also the incredible amount of support and encouragement we continue to receive from our Godstock family everyday. We will forever be grateful.

Jacob Aaron Courtney passed very peacefully into the arms of Jesus on December 18th, 2003. He is the very light of our lives, he is the very air we breathe, and we miss him terribly everyday. Brian and I are at peace because we believe Jacob is without pain and suffering anymore.

Knowing that Jacob’s very favorite thing in the whole world to do when he was feeling good was to swing on his swing set, John decided to start honoring Jake’s memory by holding The Swinging for Kids golf tournament in the Charlotte every year.

The generous contributor’s and members of Godstock allowed one of the most precious, intelligent and hysterically funny children on this earth the comfort of a parent at his side constantly during his heartbreaking battle with cancer. Our family will never be able to express our deep appreciation for the insurmountable help we received.

Warmly,

Brian & Chanda Courtney