Happy Birthday!!!

Steve here...Those of you who were following Lee's journey during her surgeries back in December will recall

that she managed to make certain my birthday wasn't "overshadowed" by her brain surgery. She had a "gift of the hour" prepared in advance for me as I waited to hear the great news that she had successfully come through surgery. Well today it's my incredible opportunity to try and reciprocate as Lee celebrates what feels a lot like a second first birthday.

We always make much of "first birthday" celebrations. So much changes during that first year of life; at no

other time in our lives do we seem to undergo so much growth and change in such a short period of time. That

is the closest analogy I could come up with to describe the cause for unique celebration on Lee's birthday THIS

year. It's almost hard to believe that it's been a year this month since we started the significant increase in

health battles resulting in multiple hospital stays, which ultimately led us back to New York in December. I

know Lee gave you a detailed update last month on her incredible healing and recovery process, and I am so

thankful to say that she has continued on that path.

The blessings of restored health and reduced physical suffering have been nothing short of miraculous. We

give thanks moment by moment for the love and grace given by our amazing Lord and Savior. The ways in

which he has guided every step of Lee's journey are humbling reminders of how much He cares about every

seemingly mundane detail of our lives. I in no way want to make it sound like this birthday is "better" because

Lee's physical health has improved so dramatically and I know this is an important distinction for her as well.

She would tell you that her physical healing is simply THIS year's most visible evidence of God's love for her.

As we talked last night, she reflected on how much growth has been brought about by her "opportunities" to

experience "battles" and how much more precious that makes each day of her life's journey. She knows that

good health and her many other blessings are all simply gifts, and that more challenges inevitably lie ahead,

but they are all important parts of her life's journey.

I am so thankful for this heart of gratitude that Jesus has developed in her and am both honored and humbled

to have such a great example of how to live a life of joy regardless of circumstances. I'm unfortunately not as

creative as Lee when it comes to unique and special ways to celebrate birthdays, but I will certainly be doing

everything I can to make today's celebration memorable for her, and I'd ask you to help me out by taking just a

moment to send her a quick note to share what she means to each of you on her special day.

Love you buddy....Me

---

Messages

Teresa Brooks

May 29, 2014, 1:40 PM

Dearest Lee -- Can't tell you how thankful I am that the Lord has blessed you and Steve with your improving

health! Prayers have truly been answered on your behalf. You are a very special person and I have always been

thankful that you are a part of our

family. Hope you enjoy a wonderful birthday!

Love always, Teresa

R. Archer

May 29, 2014, 1:42 PM

Happy Birthday from Tennessee! I had the honor of teaching with your baby brother at ORHS before he

moved on to bigger things. But, I still have the post-it

note on my computer monitor that simply says, "Pray for

Lee." I put it there before your surgery, and it has been there ever since! However, the post-it

sticky no longer sticks, so it is held in place with tape! You have also remained on our church prayer list, and I will be happy to share your progress with the congregation. Have a wonderful birthday! Blessings to you and Steve, Rosemary Archer

Cindy Elwood

May 29, 2014, 1:44 PM

Happy Happy Birthday! I know this birthday has special meaning as you rejoice in healing and give thanks for

the successful surgery. Even though years

and distance have separated us, I give thanks for the time we had.

You both hold a special place in my heart. Love you both.

Celebrate the joy of today. You deserve it. Cindy (Shepherd) Elwood

Wanda Royal

May 29, 2014, 1:57 PM

Happy Happy Birthday Lee!!

I'm so thankful you have so much to celebrate this year.

I've been praying for you for so long, I feel like I know you. I hope you have the best birthday EVER!!

I look forward to meeting you on your next trip to Knoxville.

Love and Prayers Wanda Royal

sherry cates

May 29, 2014, 2:10 PM

HOPING FOR A WONDERFUL BIRTHDAY THAT YOU & STEVE CAN ENJOY TOGETHER WITH

MUCH GRATITUDE AND LOVE FROM OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST. LOVE TO YOU BOTH. COACH & SHERRY

Wendy Sternshein

May 29, 2014, 2:17 PM

Happy Birthday, Lee. Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us. Your indomitable spirit is a

reminder every day to give thanks for all the blessings that surround us if we only take a moment to accept

them for what they are with grace and an open spirit. Your smile, your laughter, your loving nature and the joy

you reflect into our world are truly amazing gifts. Enjoy your Birthday as the love you spread daily is reflected

back to you!

Susan Jenkinson

May 29, 2014, 2:21 PM

HaPpY BiRtHdAy Lee-with two e's!!!!! May God continue to bless your life as richly as you have blessed

mine and more!!!! You deserve it. I got the chance to talk with your parents the other night and hear first hand

how continuing to improve. Love and miss you!!!!

**Susan Hatton Jenkinson** Sande' Korp May 29, 2014, 2:22 PM

Lee,

Happy Birthday! You are an amazing example of your love and faith in our awesome God. May he continue to bless you with peace, healing and happiness! Sandé Korp, Knoxville, TN

Carolyn Hamby

May 29, 2014, 2:28 PM

Happy Birthday Lee! I have never met you but have prayed for you for a long time and feel as if I know you in

some way. Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us! You clearly walk hand in hand with our

Precious Lord and radiate --- Him! Continue to be blessed and continued healing each and every day!

Numbers 6:24-26

By His Grace, Carolyn Hamby

Carter & Deanna Barnes

May 29, 2014, 2:34 PM

Happy Birthday, Lee! What an inspiration you are to me, as a Christian wife, as a woman. God has truly

blessed me with your friendship and I pray that we get more time to further that friendship in the coming year.

Thank you so much for your dedication to our Creator. You are an example of a Godly woman that is not often

found and I thank you for that in my own life, but also for the loving example you show to so many others in

our community. You are a treasure! Happy Birthday!

Love, deanna

Debby Swecker

May 29, 2014, 2:46 PM

Happy Birthday Lee! I am so excited that this birthday will be celebrated with much less pain and suffering.

Let there be joy, thanksgiving and praise!

Shirley Keith

May 29, 2014, 2:54 PM

I think of Lee and Steve taking life's journey always together and always with their faith to guide them!

Congratulations, Lee, Remember that birthdays don't have to be celebrated all in one day so take your time and

savor and enjoy!

Lisa Currall

May 29, 2014, 2:57 PM

Have a lovely day Lee! Happy Birthday from All the Curralls !!!

Dan Sharp

May 29, 2014, 3:15 PM

Happy Birthday Lee. You and Steve are an inspiration to me. Dan

Di Cieslak

May 29, 2014, 3:17 PM

Happy Birthday, dear friend! I'm so so grateful this year finds you in thriving health. Through thick and thin

you have been an encourgement, inspiration, and beautiful example of love, joy, faithfulness, and trust in

God's goodness. It's been such a blessing to clearly see the evidence of his work in your life. I love you dearly, and I miss you so much! Let's catch up soon, please? Happy Birthday! - Di

Eunice Goodwin

May 29, 2014, 3:29 PM

Our best wishes to you as you celebrate a birthday feeling better than you have in years!

So thankful for your progress and God's hand leading you through the surgeries and now the healing process.

Hope you and Steve can do something fun and memorable.

We love you, Eunice and Dan

Lee Anne Giurintano

May 29, 2014, 3:46 PM

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LEE!! :-)

I'm overjoyed by the report from Steve that you continue to heal and recover and I pray that this continues. I

can't tell you how much I look forward to your messages! (and that includes yours too Steve!) They inspire me

to live more fully each day that God has blessed me with, no matter how my day may turn out to be. Your deep

spirituality, gratitude, wisdom, and humor (love Lee's sense of humor!!) are so genuine and sincere. You are

roles models of what love is all about. I think you two have something very special! Thank you for sharing

your journey Lee, and I feel blessed that God lead me to your Carepage. I have learned so much from both of

you! Enjoy your special day Lee! Continued prayers for your complete recovery. Keep the Faith!! Birthday hugs surround you from Paducah, Kentucky, Lee

Bethany Mincey

May 29, 2014, 3:55 PM

Lee, I am amazed by your faith and devotion to our Lord and Savior. I think of you often and want you to

know what a blessing you have been in my life even though we have only met one time. When my world

seems chaotic or I am facing trials, God will bring YOU to my mind! For many years, your journey has

allowed me to keep the things of this world in the right perspective. THANK YOU and HAPPY

BIRTHDAY!!!

Cindy Richeson

May 29, 2014, 4:04 PM

Happy Birthday from the Richeson's.

Betty Garrett

May 29, 2014, 4:19 PM

Happy Birthday from the Garrett's!!

Sandi Henry

May 29, 2014, 4:34 PM

Thanks to God for the beautiful gift of Lee and Steve. Have a wonderful birthday, Lee! Steve, you'll have to

tell and show us what you end up doing to celebrate. Love you both!

Leah O'Bryan

May 29, 2014, 4:44 PM

Happy birthday Lee! Thank you for sharing openly this incredible journey you have been on, and for

encouraging and inspiring all of us. Your example of faith is beautiful and I'm blessed to know you.

Terry Ware

May 29, 2014, 4:54 PM

Happy Birthday Lee & Praise God

jim maples

May 29, 2014, 4:57 PM

Happy Birthday daughter. The one who wrote the above message is one of the best gifts you could ever

receive. Love, Dad

Ruth Warner

May 29, 2014, 5:06 PM

You have both been blessed with the health miracle for Lee. Thank you Lord. May you have many more

Birthdays.

Kelly Anderson

May 29, 2014, 5:30 PM

Happy Birthday :) Celebrating with you!

Cindy Hambly

May 29, 2014, 5:41 PM

Happy Birthday Lee. When I think of you the first words that come to mind are strength and grace. You have

been amazing through your journey and have set a good example for us all!

Anna Lee Drewry

May 29, 2014, 7:06 PM

Happy Birthday to a strong and couragous woman!

Sammie Rodriguez

May 29, 2014, 7:16 PM

Happy Birthday Lee!! The amount of love and appreciation we have for you is indescribable. You give us hope

with your perseverance. We will always cherish the great example that you and Steve are for Christians and

non-Christians alike. We thank God for you! Love you tons! Enjoy your day!

xoxo

Sammie and Zach

carol sparks

May 29, 2014, 9:34 PM

Happy birthday, Lee, and may you have many more of them. I celebrate with you as you express your

gratitude to our Loving, Gracious, and Eternal heavenly Father for all He has done in and through you. Carol

Sparks

Amy Garland

May 29, 2014, 9:56 PM

Happy Birthday sweet Lee!!! What an amazing blessing you are-so thankful God arranged our paths to cross

and a precious friendship with you and Steve. Much love- Amy & Matthew Garland

Kimball & Elizabeth Parker May 29, 2014, 10:03 PM

Fantastic. Happy Birthday Lee! Indeed, this is a great day to celebrate the many blessings experienced and

many more to come.

Jan Menary

May 29, 2014, 10:21 PM

Happy Birthday!

Meredith Hutchins

May 29, 2014, 11:22 PM

Lee,

I KNOW your birthday will be special because you will be spending it with Steve appreciating life. Enjoy!

Meredith

Jan Bennett

May 29, 2014, 11:33 PM

Happy Birthday Lee! So thankful for how Jesus has healed you this past year! Love,

Jan

Tamara Longworth

May 30, 2014, 3:02 AM

Whew! Almost missed this opportunity to tell Lee what an inspiration she is to us all!! Many times, through

my own battles, I have thought of Lee and all she has endured, yet perservered through and come out on the

other side so much stronger. I just don't think there is any stronger, better witness for God that I have ever

seen. Lee, wishing you a very Happy Birthday, and a tremendously blessed year! SO thankful to hear of your successes and

recovery from the long, tough road you have been on. May it only keep getting better and better for you!

Patricia Maddi

May 30, 2014, 3:36 AM

Hi Lee,

I am a stranger yet I have followed your Carepage for so long I feel as though I know you. Happy Birthday!! I

am so thankful for your continued healing. What a gift to both you and Steve also. I hope you have had a

wonderful day. Take care and, as always, thanks for the updates.

Patricia Maddi NYC

Alex Christiansen

May 30, 2014, 3:38 AM

Happy birthday Lee! We hope you have an amazing day. Thanks for the updates Chief.

sue ensign

May 30, 2014, 2:30 PM

Way to go Jesus! I love love love His work in you! Happy Birthday indeed!

Sylvia O'Dell

May 30, 2014, 2:51 PM

Happy Birthday Lee! You and Steven are most blessed! God is using you in His Mighty Way. Enjoy every

moment as you celebrate today! We praise God for your healing! Hugs, Dolly and Digger Judi Johnson May 30, 2014, 3:19 PM

Happy Birthday, Lee. You and Steve are both very special people. God is awesome, and I am so thankful that

you are receiving special gifts of His amazing healing. Continue praising and thanking Him for every blessing

as I thank Him for the blessing of knowing you both. Love you, Judi

Johnson

D Ward

May 30, 2014, 5:11 PM

Lee- you and your dearest Grandmama C., who is such an angel, in our lives are very dear to us. We have

shared in her joy in you for almost your entire life. She loved being with you as you grew up and she is so

proud of the beautiful amazing young lady you have become. Because we think of her as family, we too think

of you as family and rejoice with you and Steve! You are a beautiful gift to us and to all who are honored to

love you. It is so easy to do- you are wonderful! You give us courage and strength and joy. May God richly

bless you on your birthday. Love, Don, Debby and Chuck Daily prayers as well!

Sandy Moye

May 30, 2014, 9:02 PM

Happy Birthday, precious lady!! You're such an inspiration to us all! Love the Moyes!

Joan Bouck

May 30, 2014, 9:16 PM

May today be the beginning of the best year of your life! Happy Birthday, First Lady of FD3!

Joan

Carolyn Alfrey

May 30, 2014, 9:43 PM

Happy Belated Birthday, Lee! You have been and still are such an inspiration to so many. How blessed you

and Steve are to have this awesome love for each other given by our awesome God!

Dolores Burtnett

May 30, 2014, 11:25 PM

Happy Birthday Lee! You are thought of so often. What an inspiration you are to all and what an incredible

testimony. You are always in my heart!

Linda Hamilton

May 31, 2014, 4:05 AM

Happy Birthday Lee! Thank you for sharing your journey with us, and giving us the honor of praying with and

for you, and Steve as well!

Amy Moore

May 31, 2014, 9:22 PM

Lee, hope you had a wonderful birthday. So glad health is going better for you. As always you & Steve are an

inspiration to me & so many others.

Jill Shelton

June 1, 2014, 3:32 PM

Hey Lee, thankful your health is much better than last year this time even just a few months ago. I pray it only continues to get better for you. Praying many blessings for you and Steve both this year. Hope you had a great

birthday.

Terry Puckett

June 18, 2014, 8:31 PM

Lee, When I think of you and Steve, I am most thankful for getting to spend not one but two youth mission

trips to Myrtle Beach with both you. What a joy it was to see the Lord work in the youth of WMBC. Lee,

remember breaking up a "misunderstanding" between two kids and getting a bloody nose?? Oh I love

"Memory Lane" and have many pictures of the trips. Praise the Lord for both of you and hope your birthday

was wonderfully Blessed!