Messages of Hope for Cancer Prom-Goers

June 11, 2008— -- We asked "World News" viewers to pass along their messages of hope to young cancer patients who just attended a prom. We've passed along your messages to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, and we've posted some of your responses below.

Jeff from Bradenton, Fla., wrote: "Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass — it's about learning how to dance in the rain. Dance away......Signed Jeff (Stage IV Lymphoma)."

Stephen from Hope Mills, N.C., wrote: "I don't know if you guys will get this, but I just wanted to say it's wonderful to see you smile. It means so much to me! It makes traveling to Afghanistan worth it for people like you! And I will be proud to go back to make sure you guys are safe here in the U.S., and so many others!"

Rafael from Kabul, Afghanistan, wrote: "I am serving in Afghanistan in Operation Enduring Freedom, and I saw the show from Tuesday. Seing shows like that shows that in America we all carry courage. Some of us use it in wars and children like you use it fighting your disease. Never give up the fight no matter how hard it gets. If you believe, you will be cured. GOD bless you all. From someone who cares in Afghanistan."

AJ from Hialeah Gardens, Fla., wrote: "So, I was reading the news and I found that I could tell one of the cancer patients at Sloan-Kettering something, so I do hope this little note finds one of you well; I know you're going to need a little reassurance. As a former chemotherapy patient myself (it didn't happen too long ago for me, just two years), I know what it's like to be going through the trials and tribulations that you're going to face, and I'm not going to lie — not for a second. It will not be easy. There will be times when you lie in bed, hoping to do nothing more than give up and that it'll all go away. But there is one thing to remember: No matter what may happen to you, you are stronger than it. As long as you have hope, you have confidence. I'm 14 now, and I'm still thankful that I pulled through. If I could do it … You can, too."

Joe from Rochester, N.Y., wrote: "Thanks for allowing me into your world and showing me how to live Joyfully, Fully alive in the moment. I have Multiple Sclerosis, so the impact you all have had on me is all the more meaningful. Thank you thank you so much for sharing your genuine selves. May all the good things both here and above be granted to each and every one. The news tonight was GOOD NEWS BECAUSE OF YOU!!!!"

Capt. Karen O'Neill from Covington, Ky., currently deployed in Iraq, wrote: "Hi, I am currently deployed to Iraq and just saw the Tuesday evening news this Wednesday morning on all of you preparing for and enjoying your night at the Prom. All of you looked fabulous as you danced the night away. The smiles on your faces brought a smile to mine and tears to my eyes. I can't imagine what you and your familes go through but the love you have for one another shines through. You truly are an inspriration to us all. I will include each and every one of you in my nightly prayers. Take care of each other and know that an airman in Iraq is thinking of you. Big Hug ~ , USAF, Iraq."

Sgt Shauna Star from Fort Carson, Colo., currently deployed to Iraq, wrote: "I want all the children to know, that myself and my fellow soldiers serving over here in Iraq, are sending lots of prayers, hugs, and kisses. We wish you all the best and hope every one of you has a speedy recovery. God Bless all of you!!! Myself and my fellow soldiers are sending our prayers, hugs, and kisses, all the way from Camp Taji, Iraq. SGT Shauna Star, U.S. Army, Camp Taji, Iraq."

PFC Sherrod Lewis, currently deployed in Kabul, Afghanistan, wrote: "I caught the segment of the children fighting cancer, and the Prom that was given to them. I'm fighting a war yeah, but that segment alone brought tears to eye. The happiness of the children, for just something as simple as a small prom. It just made me sit back and thank god for the life he's allowed me to live. It was just amazing to see the smile on their faces, from something as simple as that. The courage, and the enduring struggle they go through is just astounding. It's things like that, that is going to help me get through my 15-month deployment to Afghanistan. Thanks so much kids for helping me appreciate life more."

Capt. Mike Miranda currently deployed in Afghanistan, wrote: "I'd like to let you all know that I saw your story on ABC News and you all looked fantastic! Your bravery and strength is an inspiration to us all. One only has to look at you to see what real courage looks like. Keep on fighting, we're all behind you! — CPT Mike Miranda, Afghanistan"

Marvin from Atlanta wrote: "You inspire me, my family, and so many people. Few will ever attain in their lifetimes the strength, will, and grace under pressure that you all display — and on a daily basis, no less, even when feeling your very worst. We love you all, and we hope we can give back to others what you, through your example, have given to us. As someone with three grandparents and also a mom who went through cancer, I am praying for you, from now on. Thank you. :)"

Carol from North Kingstown, Rhode Island, wrote: "When I saw all of you laughing and looking so beautiful at your prom, it made me realize how much we adults can can learn from the courage of young people."

Dr. Sharon Mclaughlin from Wantagh, N.Y., wrote: "I loved your smiles on World News. This is a difficult time in your life. When I was 13 I was treated at Sloan-Kettering. I loved the playroom and the beautiful views of the city. I didn't like losing my hair and the time spent away from my friends. My advice would be to live, love, laugh and fight. You will become a stronger person and have an understanding of life that some people do not learn in a lifetime. Best of wishes and only happy thoughts. Sharon T Mclaughlin MD FACS."

Charlie from Atlanta wrote: "Your story really touched me. I am 52 years old and running to raise money for research for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society with Team in Training. 85 of us from the Atlanta team are training for a 1/2 or full marathon. The strength and will power of you kids keeps me going. I will keep running until we find a cure. Be strong and know others are pulling for you. God Bless."