Dear Cheryl,
I am sure you are smiling down from heaven as you watch our progress effect all of world so other families will not suffer from this tragedy. We are making great strides in honor of your memory and our daughter's future.
Dear FDA representative,
I am a member of the Grey Ribbon Crusade (C.E.O. and Founder of C.E.V.A.N. Louie Foundation, a privately funded society towards brain cancer in early developmental phases) and just got the notification over the weekend about speaking at the FDA approval for Avastin event that I will be personally attending. I beg for your consideration on behalf of my late wife, Cheryl Fernandez Louie, and our 20 month old daughter to speak on behalf of the efficacy of Avastin. My late wife passed away of GBM IV on November 2, 2008 and was a very influential woman in the state of Hawaii (Head of several organizations, responsible for the West Coast tourism that fed the local microeconomy, runner up for Miss Hawaii and won several pageants, and was well known by many). After my wife had 2 cranial resects and an emergency C section within a 4 day span, we went through the standard protocols of treatment. To our dismay, Temador (the only FDA approved chemo with exception to maybe the Gliadel Wafer) proven entirely ineffective with her tumor mass increased dramatically due to immunity. Our oncology shifted to Cedars Sinai Brain Tumor Center under the guidance of Dr. Phuphanich, Dr. Jeremy Rudnick, and of course under Dr. Keith Black and Dr. John Yu in neurosciences. We consulted with the staff at UCLA (Dr. Linda Liau), Duke (Dr. Henry Friedman), and Cedars Sinai (Dr. Keith Black) regarding experimental regimens and they all pointed us towards Avastin. My wife’s tumor tissue was not cryogenically frozen under a controlled environment at Loma Linda University and was wax paraphin blocked at their pathology department. Henceforth, we were not eligible for clinical trials due to the fact that they required biomarkers to track efficacy since there are several tumor types in existence. Fortunately, our insurance approved Avastin (which is 50/50) and we immediately initiated treatment which proved highly effective. My wife asked me to promise that I dedicate my life to giving her just more days to see her daughter and spend time with me and her family. Avastin gave us that chance and the first MRI demonstrated a 80% reduction in tumor size and 95% in the subsequent MRI. I will be willing to authorize release of these medical records to validate these claims from Cedars Sinai (I know because of HIPPA regulatory requirements). We were asked to be a testimonial from the researchers at Genentech (known as a subsidiary of Roche now) since the efficacy was astronomical. On behalf of our brain cancer community, please give me this opportunity to present this information to the FDA to further accelerate the approval of Avastin since it has been a long anticipated wait within our community. Our board consists of a UCLA professor for non profits, CRO – biotech consultant, oncologist from Cedars Sinai network, financial backing from private donors effected by the disease, and extensive networks of volunteers to further our cause. We are an entity that will not take external charitable donations and are considered a well capitalized private foundation. It would be my personal dream to discuss these matters in memory of my late wife, Cheryl Fernandez.
God Bless and thank you for your considerations,
Evan Louie
Founder and C.E.O.
C.E.V.A.N. Louie Foundation for Brain Cancer
Friday, March 27, 2009
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Here are the things we have done in honor of your memory...
Dear wife,
I have made this commitment about 16 months ago to change the brain cancer community. You know that when I set my mind to something I DO NOT fail and will utilize every resource possible to accomplish that goal. You know that I always used movies to help parallel a reality.. like Braveheart "uniting the clans after losing his wife" or Seven Pounds (true devotion to change lives after losing his wife). I guess I can draw inspiration from a storyline in a movie. LOL You will truly live eternally via all that we have accomplished and one day this organization will be turned over to our daughter, Cevan, as Chairwoman and C.E.O. (not like Godfather III with illegitimate funding trying to use a false guise and coming from an organized crime syndicate LOL), and she will be proud of her mother and father for their accomplishments for the greater good. Till that day my love, smile down on us from heaven and ask God to give us guidance...
C.E.V.A.N. Louie Foundation will be non-profit society dedicated to the treatment and education of brain cancer to families and friends affected by this disease. C.E.V.A.N.'s acronym stands for Cheryl Evan Ventures & Acquisitions Nationally will be the only privately funded society which will take no external charitable donations. The Board of Directors and Executives will take no salary and every dollar and cent will go directly to the target demographic of its community. The Board of Directors will consists of industry leading doctors, researchers, scientists, and activists within its respective community. All funds will go directly to the acceleration of clinical trials for FDA approval, educational programs on preparation and treatment planning, designing and institute new diagnosis protocols within the major healthcare systems and hospital facilities, assistance with disability and medical insurance benefits programs, financial assistance to families, logistical family planning, housing and transportation for brain cancer patients, and building solidarity and unification within the brain cancer community. "There are those who make waves in this world... and those who will bring a tsunami..Never underestimate sheer devotion and passion to overcome" quote by Evan Louie, Founder & CEO of C.E.V.A.N. Louie Foundation.
2/15/09 Organizational framework near completion. Board of Directors identified.
2/20/09 Outreach with educational programs and developmental planning
3/17/09 Met with Cedars Sinai brain tumor center oncologist at the facility. 2 hour meeting to discuss medical advisory board and have commitment. He will also consult with other staff to bring the remaining neuroscience / neurosurgery department to provide direction.
3/18/09 Al Musella, founder of the Musella Foundation, called for 2 hour discussion on brain cancer developments, plagues of community, resource planning, and emailed additional information on entry point into community. Referred to several sites, scientists, and new targets for funding.
3/18/09 Called by leading scientist team to discuss launching a mutation of a treatment that is going into Phase I clinical trials which has proven to target cancer cells with minimal impact to healthy brain tissue. The treatment delivery mechanism is via catheter and has a highly successful chance of efficacy. Team of research scientists consists of R&D teams responsible for current treatments and regimens available for brain cancer. They are now at various large pharmaceuticals or biotech firms.
3/18/09 - C.E.V.A.N. Louie Foundation will now be public domain and 501(c)3 status to be filed and organizational infrastructure developed within 6 week trajectory.
3/19/09 Conversation with Al Musella to gather Bylaws and extraction from Secretary of State. Tentative meeting established in NY for tour of PA lab facilities and designation of attendees for this meeting.
3/19/09 - Recruited Biotech consultant from Premier Research a CRO (Contractor Research Organization). Proposal to discuss services they can provide in biotech sector and involvement with scientific community. Discussed SEER (Surveillance of Epidemiology and End Results) Database of all different cancers and end results of investigations (Thousands of Terabytes of Data). They provide more exposure for NIH grants and further exploratory publications for scientific community. Further discussed idea of establishing Consortium that will aggregate all the industry leading brain cancer community including but not limited to principle investigators, scientists, industry leading neurosurgeons and neuro oncologists from brain tumor centers, NPO's, biotech, pharmaceuticals, brain cancer leading activists, etc.. to develop steering community within a public domain. This Consortium will be a panel discussion and steering committee addressing the agenda of challenges facing the brain cancer community today. There are consideration to build direct contact to the FDA for funding via the Orphan Drug program for early phase clinical trials. Considerations have been made to contact ICH (International Conference on Harmonization) which is the global consortium of standards of policies and protocols for new pharmaceutical drugs to be approved. Gathering resources to help expedite proposals to FDA, medical research, study design, etc..Identifying location of brain tumor bank for tissue repository accession. The members of this Consortium can excise portions and do genomic based testing and identify triggers. This is a cryogenic controlled environment for biomarker testing.
Action items:
1.) Identify FDA regional contact and acquire information on Orphan Drug program to help accelerate phases of new treatment regimens for brain cancer.
2.) Orchestrate methodology and planning for Consortium and utilize private financial backing to fund event. Budgetary planning measures will be accounted for.
3/19/09 Conversation with medical adviser from Cedars Sinai about referral to brain tumor tissue bank. We will require public accessibility for other researchers and scientists within the community.
3/19/09 Recruiting new divisions / departments for organizational chart development.
3/20/09 Spoke to Biotech advisor regarding CRO services involvement as independent consultant. Escalation to Global Director for initial discussion. Considerations for NIH grant to fund Consortium or privately fund event. Phase I program rollout identified for outreach programs. Develop marketing and outbound call center to target all major healthcare systems and hospital facilities to institute newly brain cancer diagnosis protocols. The delivery mechanism shall be via grassroots efforts or direct implementation via FDA guidelines or methods of standardization. Organized and centralized effort to require that all facilities now use cryogenic environment for brain tumor tissue repository (to qualify for clinical trials as secondary treatment options and track biomarkers) Create awareness that these facilities pose a potential legal liability by not providing newly dx patients with this option or legal consent forms that they are aware of this protocol. Build network of existing insource and outsource laboratory environments regionally for tissue repository storage. Key contacts shall be identified.
3/20/09 – Phase II to be rolled out - communicate with all leading foundations to pull resources and expedite funding for clinical trials of brain cancer. Consideration to join Blue Ribbon Network when fully operational. Identify standardized informational package to distribute to newly dx patients. Consider protocol to inform new Dx patients to read educational pamphlets and attend monthly UNBIASED webinars / seminars on interpretation of their medical insurance plans, disability insurance and other financial resources available, available clinical trial treatments, noteworthy brain tumor facilities, expectations of primary caregivers, family planning for brain cancer (Living trust & estate planning, advanced healthcare directive / POA, etc..) housing and transportation resources available for brain cancer families, etc… First conference should be a steering committee and / or panel discussion of the brain cancer community consisting of the NPO’s and feedback from the brain cancer families worldwide.
3/21/09 – Discussion about East Coast based NPO that collects, stores, and freezes umbilical cord and stem cells for both research and to be used by donor if needed. Developing lab facility for genetic analysis of brain tumor samples and repository contains 1000 tumor samples. Consideration for centralized lab that collects and stores brain tumor samples, analyzes them, and develops vaccine. Accession to public domain for scientific research, funding, and transportation mechanism TBD. Still waiting on West Coast based brain tumor tissue repository information and availability.
3/22/09 – Working on aggregating findings of existing database of brain cancer regimens for analysis. Bridging biotech advisor and centralized database for analysis. Web site development, content, and organizational chart development underway. 501c3 filing will be addressed after completion of By-Laws and Article of Incorporation.
3/22 C.E.V.A.N. Louie Foundation will be attending the event for Avastin approval by the FDA in Spring Valley MD. Will be sending out request Monday 3/23 to speak at this event on behalf of brain cancer community but deadline was 3/20. We have a compelling story since Cheryl was on the Avastin CPT-11 regimen and 80% and 95% reduction in tumor size in subsequent MRI’s with documentation that can be authorized for release (HIPPA regulatory guidelines) for public domain. Will provide strong credibility on overall impact of our community.
3/23/09 Joined Grey Ribbon Crusade network. A network of Non Profit Organizations pulling together for funding projects correlated to brain cancer. Current pipeline of projects estimated at approximately $600k total. Fundraisers and charitable donations depressed due to economic conditions for these NPO’s. DC Vax project is interesting since moving to Grade II patients and pediatrics.
3/24/09 - Our organization is now involved in the PSA's (Public Service Announcements) for the brain cancer community. The brain cancer awareness month is in May and C.E.V.A.N. Louie foundation will be an integral part in pushing this forward to gain media exposure as a sponsor. PSA's will be provide awareness and fundraising for the Grey Ribbon Crusade who C.E.V.A.N. Louie foundation now belongs to. Proposed idea to contact 1995 World Rugby Champion, Ruben Kruger, who is currently fighting brain cancer to be a iconic speaker (like a Lance Armstrong) of our community. Logistical planning and framework in planning phases for video, DVD, and development of PSA storyboarding in place. Print ad to be developed but may require editing resources. FDA declined a slot as a speaker since I missed their 3/16/09 deadline but still will be present to support our community.I guess the government doesn't have much flexibility on their deadlines. LOL
3/24 All resources allocated for Public Service Announcement with green light. C.E.V.A.N. Louie Foundation will be shown as sponsor on the message when aired. Brain cancer community, we are making strives to get our message out there!!!
I have made this commitment about 16 months ago to change the brain cancer community. You know that when I set my mind to something I DO NOT fail and will utilize every resource possible to accomplish that goal. You know that I always used movies to help parallel a reality.. like Braveheart "uniting the clans after losing his wife" or Seven Pounds (true devotion to change lives after losing his wife). I guess I can draw inspiration from a storyline in a movie. LOL You will truly live eternally via all that we have accomplished and one day this organization will be turned over to our daughter, Cevan, as Chairwoman and C.E.O. (not like Godfather III with illegitimate funding trying to use a false guise and coming from an organized crime syndicate LOL), and she will be proud of her mother and father for their accomplishments for the greater good. Till that day my love, smile down on us from heaven and ask God to give us guidance...
C.E.V.A.N. Louie Foundation will be non-profit society dedicated to the treatment and education of brain cancer to families and friends affected by this disease. C.E.V.A.N.'s acronym stands for Cheryl Evan Ventures & Acquisitions Nationally will be the only privately funded society which will take no external charitable donations. The Board of Directors and Executives will take no salary and every dollar and cent will go directly to the target demographic of its community. The Board of Directors will consists of industry leading doctors, researchers, scientists, and activists within its respective community. All funds will go directly to the acceleration of clinical trials for FDA approval, educational programs on preparation and treatment planning, designing and institute new diagnosis protocols within the major healthcare systems and hospital facilities, assistance with disability and medical insurance benefits programs, financial assistance to families, logistical family planning, housing and transportation for brain cancer patients, and building solidarity and unification within the brain cancer community. "There are those who make waves in this world... and those who will bring a tsunami..Never underestimate sheer devotion and passion to overcome" quote by Evan Louie, Founder & CEO of C.E.V.A.N. Louie Foundation.
2/15/09 Organizational framework near completion. Board of Directors identified.
2/20/09 Outreach with educational programs and developmental planning
3/17/09 Met with Cedars Sinai brain tumor center oncologist at the facility. 2 hour meeting to discuss medical advisory board and have commitment. He will also consult with other staff to bring the remaining neuroscience / neurosurgery department to provide direction.
3/18/09 Al Musella, founder of the Musella Foundation, called for 2 hour discussion on brain cancer developments, plagues of community, resource planning, and emailed additional information on entry point into community. Referred to several sites, scientists, and new targets for funding.
3/18/09 Called by leading scientist team to discuss launching a mutation of a treatment that is going into Phase I clinical trials which has proven to target cancer cells with minimal impact to healthy brain tissue. The treatment delivery mechanism is via catheter and has a highly successful chance of efficacy. Team of research scientists consists of R&D teams responsible for current treatments and regimens available for brain cancer. They are now at various large pharmaceuticals or biotech firms.
3/18/09 - C.E.V.A.N. Louie Foundation will now be public domain and 501(c)3 status to be filed and organizational infrastructure developed within 6 week trajectory.
3/19/09 Conversation with Al Musella to gather Bylaws and extraction from Secretary of State. Tentative meeting established in NY for tour of PA lab facilities and designation of attendees for this meeting.
3/19/09 - Recruited Biotech consultant from Premier Research a CRO (Contractor Research Organization). Proposal to discuss services they can provide in biotech sector and involvement with scientific community. Discussed SEER (Surveillance of Epidemiology and End Results) Database of all different cancers and end results of investigations (Thousands of Terabytes of Data). They provide more exposure for NIH grants and further exploratory publications for scientific community. Further discussed idea of establishing Consortium that will aggregate all the industry leading brain cancer community including but not limited to principle investigators, scientists, industry leading neurosurgeons and neuro oncologists from brain tumor centers, NPO's, biotech, pharmaceuticals, brain cancer leading activists, etc.. to develop steering community within a public domain. This Consortium will be a panel discussion and steering committee addressing the agenda of challenges facing the brain cancer community today. There are consideration to build direct contact to the FDA for funding via the Orphan Drug program for early phase clinical trials. Considerations have been made to contact ICH (International Conference on Harmonization) which is the global consortium of standards of policies and protocols for new pharmaceutical drugs to be approved. Gathering resources to help expedite proposals to FDA, medical research, study design, etc..Identifying location of brain tumor bank for tissue repository accession. The members of this Consortium can excise portions and do genomic based testing and identify triggers. This is a cryogenic controlled environment for biomarker testing.
Action items:
1.) Identify FDA regional contact and acquire information on Orphan Drug program to help accelerate phases of new treatment regimens for brain cancer.
2.) Orchestrate methodology and planning for Consortium and utilize private financial backing to fund event. Budgetary planning measures will be accounted for.
3/19/09 Conversation with medical adviser from Cedars Sinai about referral to brain tumor tissue bank. We will require public accessibility for other researchers and scientists within the community.
3/19/09 Recruiting new divisions / departments for organizational chart development.
3/20/09 Spoke to Biotech advisor regarding CRO services involvement as independent consultant. Escalation to Global Director for initial discussion. Considerations for NIH grant to fund Consortium or privately fund event. Phase I program rollout identified for outreach programs. Develop marketing and outbound call center to target all major healthcare systems and hospital facilities to institute newly brain cancer diagnosis protocols. The delivery mechanism shall be via grassroots efforts or direct implementation via FDA guidelines or methods of standardization. Organized and centralized effort to require that all facilities now use cryogenic environment for brain tumor tissue repository (to qualify for clinical trials as secondary treatment options and track biomarkers) Create awareness that these facilities pose a potential legal liability by not providing newly dx patients with this option or legal consent forms that they are aware of this protocol. Build network of existing insource and outsource laboratory environments regionally for tissue repository storage. Key contacts shall be identified.
3/20/09 – Phase II to be rolled out - communicate with all leading foundations to pull resources and expedite funding for clinical trials of brain cancer. Consideration to join Blue Ribbon Network when fully operational. Identify standardized informational package to distribute to newly dx patients. Consider protocol to inform new Dx patients to read educational pamphlets and attend monthly UNBIASED webinars / seminars on interpretation of their medical insurance plans, disability insurance and other financial resources available, available clinical trial treatments, noteworthy brain tumor facilities, expectations of primary caregivers, family planning for brain cancer (Living trust & estate planning, advanced healthcare directive / POA, etc..) housing and transportation resources available for brain cancer families, etc… First conference should be a steering committee and / or panel discussion of the brain cancer community consisting of the NPO’s and feedback from the brain cancer families worldwide.
3/21/09 – Discussion about East Coast based NPO that collects, stores, and freezes umbilical cord and stem cells for both research and to be used by donor if needed. Developing lab facility for genetic analysis of brain tumor samples and repository contains 1000 tumor samples. Consideration for centralized lab that collects and stores brain tumor samples, analyzes them, and develops vaccine. Accession to public domain for scientific research, funding, and transportation mechanism TBD. Still waiting on West Coast based brain tumor tissue repository information and availability.
3/22/09 – Working on aggregating findings of existing database of brain cancer regimens for analysis. Bridging biotech advisor and centralized database for analysis. Web site development, content, and organizational chart development underway. 501c3 filing will be addressed after completion of By-Laws and Article of Incorporation.
3/22 C.E.V.A.N. Louie Foundation will be attending the event for Avastin approval by the FDA in Spring Valley MD. Will be sending out request Monday 3/23 to speak at this event on behalf of brain cancer community but deadline was 3/20. We have a compelling story since Cheryl was on the Avastin CPT-11 regimen and 80% and 95% reduction in tumor size in subsequent MRI’s with documentation that can be authorized for release (HIPPA regulatory guidelines) for public domain. Will provide strong credibility on overall impact of our community.
3/23/09 Joined Grey Ribbon Crusade network. A network of Non Profit Organizations pulling together for funding projects correlated to brain cancer. Current pipeline of projects estimated at approximately $600k total. Fundraisers and charitable donations depressed due to economic conditions for these NPO’s. DC Vax project is interesting since moving to Grade II patients and pediatrics.
3/24/09 - Our organization is now involved in the PSA's (Public Service Announcements) for the brain cancer community. The brain cancer awareness month is in May and C.E.V.A.N. Louie foundation will be an integral part in pushing this forward to gain media exposure as a sponsor. PSA's will be provide awareness and fundraising for the Grey Ribbon Crusade who C.E.V.A.N. Louie foundation now belongs to. Proposed idea to contact 1995 World Rugby Champion, Ruben Kruger, who is currently fighting brain cancer to be a iconic speaker (like a Lance Armstrong) of our community. Logistical planning and framework in planning phases for video, DVD, and development of PSA storyboarding in place. Print ad to be developed but may require editing resources. FDA declined a slot as a speaker since I missed their 3/16/09 deadline but still will be present to support our community.I guess the government doesn't have much flexibility on their deadlines. LOL
3/24 All resources allocated for Public Service Announcement with green light. C.E.V.A.N. Louie Foundation will be shown as sponsor on the message when aired. Brain cancer community, we are making strives to get our message out there!!!
The reality of our fight against brain cancer...
This was a message to the brain cancer community who shares common experiences. Many of us can sympathize with each other because at some point we all may have lost a loved one or may be struggling in the constant battle against brain cancer. We know that it may be difficult for others to truly understand how brain cancer is unique within our community since it effects not only someone’s physiological status.. but also degradation of their psychological and social well being. I remember that before knowing anything about cancer I would hear coverage of stories on the news and I would feel sympathetic for that family but never would truly empathize with their disposition until my wife was diagnosed with GBM IV 4 months after we were married at 7 ½ months pregnant. All of us may or may be experiencing or have experienced this in some fashion or form… But imagine what its like to plan out a future with your spouse and have your world turned upside down after your married.. sacrificing your career and home to live in hospital 24/7 for months and months.. to know that your daughter will never know her mother and build that bond.. to know what its like to hold your wife down with one hand while she is having a grand mal seizure while feeding your famished screaming infant daughter after ongoing and prolonged sleep deprivation and break in tears feeling helpless.. to see your wife break out in tears because she is coming to realization that she will never know her daughter.. to hear doctors inform your loved one that there is nothing they can do and your wife tell you that don’t worry, my husband will make me better and acknowledging that there is nothing left to do but watch her die.. to slowly watch your wife lose her memory and not know who you are or who her daughter is.. to invest several hours a day slowly orally feeding with each meal.. to watch them go into a catatonic state and wonder if she can hear you.. to witness them go through dual forms of depression (postpartum & bleak prognosis) at the same time and refuse to eat and go to treatments.. to have to physically carry them everywhere and provide custodial care.. to fight insurance, hospitals, doctors, nurses, disability, etc.. to get treatment or mistakes made that caused her to suffer.. to sit in a dark room and watch them every minute for days and months on end. To wonder and feel guilt that if you did something different she would have survived longer. To be informed by the nurses that she will pass any minute and slowly watch her take her last breaths and her pulse stops…. These are just some of my personal experiences and not the stories I hear everyday from the brain cancer families within the community. If you transform this anguish and pain to sheer devotion, it becomes a driving centrifugal force that will make the lives better for those who are affected. We are a rare breed in the cancer community but one that will always know that our strength will help us endure. No matter all the hardships I would do it over and over again to be by your side.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Posting from Kyle Ling.. Best man in our wedding
It took me awhile to write this, because every time I want to write about Cheryl - it was like a flush of memories that hit me like a wave. There was one day that I keep thinking about and recall very visually that I still remember like if it was yesterday.
It was one of the sadest day I have ever experience, and that was to attend Cheryl's funeral. When Mike and I came down to San Diego, we wanted to make sure Evan was alright and we wanted to support him. I knew that Evan went through an ordeal and I was upset with myself of not being able to visit him due to my circumstance. When we first met up with Evan, things were joyous between us since we have not seen each other for a long time. Mike and I agreed to help out with the props and portraits to be placed at the wake and funeral service. Once we arrived at the place, we grabbed the portraits, I held the portrait of Cheryl in front of me. I never went thru so much emotions in my heart and my head went for a spin. I went through a rush of all the good memories that I recall of Cherly and Evan back at the Belmont house. After placing the portraits inside the wake, we all rushed out as quickly as we can. I knew Evan was taking it hard and it took every ounce of energy for me to hold back as well. When we were outside, I actually recall the good times that we had when we were together.
One of those times was when I first met Cheryl. She was one of the nicest person I've ever met. I've met her at Evan's house at Belmont for the first time and already she wanted to make sure I leave with some food. Almost every time I come for a visit, Cheryl wanted me to bring food home. She knows that I lived alone and that I would usually eat out. She always wanted to make sure that I have some home cooked meal. She even taught me on how to cook some dishes that I always wanted to learn how to make. I still follow her recipe for certain dishes til this day. From the first day, when I met Cheryl, I knew she was a good person at heart.
There were other times, I was impress with Cheryl on what she knew and what she did. I witness Cheryl save some friends of being embarrassed of what they did. Not only did she help save them from losing face, but she also educate them on what they did wrong. Just from typing this, I realize that Cheryl would have been the greatest mom.
I also recall about some of the conversations we had before. We were talking about different perspectives and how things evolved from family to politics. She was intelligent and very educated. She tries to help out when she can. She even try to set me up with one of her friends. :) It was funny, because she really tried and it didn't work out for me.
Everyone that met Cheryl was impressed by her right away. I remember one of my friend mentioned that Evan was the luckiest guy to have her. There was another friend (female) met Cheryl for the first time and all she talked about was how hot she was. She talked about Cherly so much that I just had to ask if she was planning to switch sides and remind her that she has a boyfriend. lol Cheryl was just quiet and had a smirk. I could tell she just wanted to say "okay, enough now".
All that memories went thru from just holding that portrait. The last time I saw her happy was at their wedding. That was what I was holding and there was a quote I remember: A picture is worth a thousand words...in my case - that picture reminded me of how Cheryl was. She was that kind-hearted, smart person and a good friend. We all miss her.
It was one of the sadest day I have ever experience, and that was to attend Cheryl's funeral. When Mike and I came down to San Diego, we wanted to make sure Evan was alright and we wanted to support him. I knew that Evan went through an ordeal and I was upset with myself of not being able to visit him due to my circumstance. When we first met up with Evan, things were joyous between us since we have not seen each other for a long time. Mike and I agreed to help out with the props and portraits to be placed at the wake and funeral service. Once we arrived at the place, we grabbed the portraits, I held the portrait of Cheryl in front of me. I never went thru so much emotions in my heart and my head went for a spin. I went through a rush of all the good memories that I recall of Cherly and Evan back at the Belmont house. After placing the portraits inside the wake, we all rushed out as quickly as we can. I knew Evan was taking it hard and it took every ounce of energy for me to hold back as well. When we were outside, I actually recall the good times that we had when we were together.
One of those times was when I first met Cheryl. She was one of the nicest person I've ever met. I've met her at Evan's house at Belmont for the first time and already she wanted to make sure I leave with some food. Almost every time I come for a visit, Cheryl wanted me to bring food home. She knows that I lived alone and that I would usually eat out. She always wanted to make sure that I have some home cooked meal. She even taught me on how to cook some dishes that I always wanted to learn how to make. I still follow her recipe for certain dishes til this day. From the first day, when I met Cheryl, I knew she was a good person at heart.
There were other times, I was impress with Cheryl on what she knew and what she did. I witness Cheryl save some friends of being embarrassed of what they did. Not only did she help save them from losing face, but she also educate them on what they did wrong. Just from typing this, I realize that Cheryl would have been the greatest mom.
I also recall about some of the conversations we had before. We were talking about different perspectives and how things evolved from family to politics. She was intelligent and very educated. She tries to help out when she can. She even try to set me up with one of her friends. :) It was funny, because she really tried and it didn't work out for me.
Everyone that met Cheryl was impressed by her right away. I remember one of my friend mentioned that Evan was the luckiest guy to have her. There was another friend (female) met Cheryl for the first time and all she talked about was how hot she was. She talked about Cherly so much that I just had to ask if she was planning to switch sides and remind her that she has a boyfriend. lol Cheryl was just quiet and had a smirk. I could tell she just wanted to say "okay, enough now".
All that memories went thru from just holding that portrait. The last time I saw her happy was at their wedding. That was what I was holding and there was a quote I remember: A picture is worth a thousand words...in my case - that picture reminded me of how Cheryl was. She was that kind-hearted, smart person and a good friend. We all miss her.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Speech from Debbie Gaspar at the Funeral
My name is Debbie. I am Cheryl’s first degree cousin from her Mother’s side. The night before Cheryl’s funeral service, I was contemplating of what to write. There are a lot of memories we shared together and it was difficult choosing which memories to share. I wanted to make sure my speech captured the essence of Cheryl. I wrote this speech the morning of Cheryl’s funeral service, just half an hour before it started. As I sat next to Cheryl, it was like she was sitting next to me, helping me write. I could feel her talking to me, letting me know her favorite moments we shared together.
First of all, I want to share that Cheryl was a woman with much integrity and her heart was full of compassion. She couldn’t hurt a soul, not even an animal. She loved her dogs Maka & Mana very much! She always saw the good in others and gave people the benefit of a doubt. What I admired most about Cheryl was that she was very independent, an over-achiever, and very critical about herself. That’s only because she put her whole-heart into everything she did. I was so proud of her when she bought her home in Hemet! Also, she was very passionate about life. She never took things for granted, she loved to travel, and enjoyed eating at fine restaurants. One example of how passionate she was of life was on her 21st birthday. Cheryl didn’t care about hitting the clubs, neither taking advantage of being 21. So, I surprised her by flying her out to Maui. We started our trip by visiting her Grandma Fernandez in up-country. Then, we drove to Kapalua to sit by the beach, sipped on virgin Pina Colada, and enjoyed each others company. Then, we drove to Iao needle and had a crazy idea to take the risk of jumping off a cliff and into the river. This is one of my many fondest memories that I had with Cheryl. What I will truly miss the most of Cheryl was our daily phone calls to each other and many long hours of conversations! Most times, we spoke of nonsense, but it was so meaningful that when Cheryl didn’t call, I longed to hear her voice. When we spoke, we could talk about everything and anything. She was such a good listener and saw things in a different perspective. Cheryl, was not only my cousin, but my best friend, and sister.
Cheryl, I thank you for being there for me and for putting up with my crap. I know at times, I could be difficult, but it was only because I was being over-protective of you. I love you very much and will always hold you close to my heart! I have come to accept, that God put you in my life to understand that life is too precious! Through you, I have come to appreciate life like you did. To Evan, Cheryl has expressed to me many times that she finally found her true love. I want to thank you very much for making Cheryl very happy and for allowing her to experience being a Mommy. That was her main goal in life… to love and you have given that to her. Cheryl, I love you and I will never forget the times we shared together, and most importantly, all the meaningful lessons you have taught me in your life. Although you are not here with us physically, you will always remain in our hearts and souls. We love you Cheryl and miss you dearly.
Forever your cousin,
Debbie
First of all, I want to share that Cheryl was a woman with much integrity and her heart was full of compassion. She couldn’t hurt a soul, not even an animal. She loved her dogs Maka & Mana very much! She always saw the good in others and gave people the benefit of a doubt. What I admired most about Cheryl was that she was very independent, an over-achiever, and very critical about herself. That’s only because she put her whole-heart into everything she did. I was so proud of her when she bought her home in Hemet! Also, she was very passionate about life. She never took things for granted, she loved to travel, and enjoyed eating at fine restaurants. One example of how passionate she was of life was on her 21st birthday. Cheryl didn’t care about hitting the clubs, neither taking advantage of being 21. So, I surprised her by flying her out to Maui. We started our trip by visiting her Grandma Fernandez in up-country. Then, we drove to Kapalua to sit by the beach, sipped on virgin Pina Colada, and enjoyed each others company. Then, we drove to Iao needle and had a crazy idea to take the risk of jumping off a cliff and into the river. This is one of my many fondest memories that I had with Cheryl. What I will truly miss the most of Cheryl was our daily phone calls to each other and many long hours of conversations! Most times, we spoke of nonsense, but it was so meaningful that when Cheryl didn’t call, I longed to hear her voice. When we spoke, we could talk about everything and anything. She was such a good listener and saw things in a different perspective. Cheryl, was not only my cousin, but my best friend, and sister.
Cheryl, I thank you for being there for me and for putting up with my crap. I know at times, I could be difficult, but it was only because I was being over-protective of you. I love you very much and will always hold you close to my heart! I have come to accept, that God put you in my life to understand that life is too precious! Through you, I have come to appreciate life like you did. To Evan, Cheryl has expressed to me many times that she finally found her true love. I want to thank you very much for making Cheryl very happy and for allowing her to experience being a Mommy. That was her main goal in life… to love and you have given that to her. Cheryl, I love you and I will never forget the times we shared together, and most importantly, all the meaningful lessons you have taught me in your life. Although you are not here with us physically, you will always remain in our hearts and souls. We love you Cheryl and miss you dearly.
Forever your cousin,
Debbie
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Rest in Peace Cheryl We Love You
An email written by Hugo Stanley the day after Cheryl passed...
Ev, please post this piece I had written the day that Cheryl passed
and shared with friends that we both had in common and others I'm
close to.
I wrote this on my personal website today, and I wanted to share it
with you all.
Today my beloved friend and sister Cheryl Fernandez Louie lost a year
and half long battle with brain cancer. She was the loving wife of
one of my best friends Evan, and mother to my goddaughter Cevan Aisla.
Cheryl was in her early Thirties, newly married, and a first time
mother just over a year ago.
Cheryl was a typical island girl whose whole life was like a hula.
Her demeanor, attitude, personality, wit and even the way she walked
was flowing and effortless. Cheryl worked for the state of Hawaii as
a Sales Director and was admired by all who knew her professionally
for her ethic and professionalism. She was also a former beauty queen
for the state of Hawaii.
She loved wine, good food, her pets, reading, her home and was never
someone I'd ever known to complain about any facet of her life. Her
two greatest loves were her Ohana and her heart, Evan & Cevan.
The last time I saw her was at Cedar Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles.
Even then, as she lay there fighting but visibly weak, I marveled at
how beautiful and graceful she was.
Please say a prayer for my brother and his family in their time of
need. Hug your loved ones, and let them know you love them. If they
ask, tell them I told you to do it.
Cheryl may have lost the battle with cancer, but she has won her wings
in Heaven, and those who knew her have memories more precious than any
prize.
Go in peace sister, we love you. We'll meet again.
"Beyond the door
There's peace I'm sure.
And I know there'll be no more...
Tears in heaven..."
Tears in Heaven
Eric Clapton
Ev, please post this piece I had written the day that Cheryl passed
and shared with friends that we both had in common and others I'm
close to.
I wrote this on my personal website today, and I wanted to share it
with you all.
Today my beloved friend and sister Cheryl Fernandez Louie lost a year
and half long battle with brain cancer. She was the loving wife of
one of my best friends Evan, and mother to my goddaughter Cevan Aisla.
Cheryl was in her early Thirties, newly married, and a first time
mother just over a year ago.
Cheryl was a typical island girl whose whole life was like a hula.
Her demeanor, attitude, personality, wit and even the way she walked
was flowing and effortless. Cheryl worked for the state of Hawaii as
a Sales Director and was admired by all who knew her professionally
for her ethic and professionalism. She was also a former beauty queen
for the state of Hawaii.
She loved wine, good food, her pets, reading, her home and was never
someone I'd ever known to complain about any facet of her life. Her
two greatest loves were her Ohana and her heart, Evan & Cevan.
The last time I saw her was at Cedar Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles.
Even then, as she lay there fighting but visibly weak, I marveled at
how beautiful and graceful she was.
Please say a prayer for my brother and his family in their time of
need. Hug your loved ones, and let them know you love them. If they
ask, tell them I told you to do it.
Cheryl may have lost the battle with cancer, but she has won her wings
in Heaven, and those who knew her have memories more precious than any
prize.
Go in peace sister, we love you. We'll meet again.
"Beyond the door
There's peace I'm sure.
And I know there'll be no more...
Tears in heaven..."
Tears in Heaven
Eric Clapton
Friday, January 23, 2009
Letter to Cevan from Nino Bobby, Nina Heitiare and Heiarii
Cevan,
I remember when your dad told me that he met your mom…his voice was full of excitement and bursting with joy and happiness. Now at the time, I didn’t think much of it because your dad is always so optimistic about everyone and everything that he puts his heart in, however, your mom had a different effect on your dad. Your dad was glowing with radiance because he met his soul mate and never had any cares in the world! So being the skeptical Nino that I am, I was like,” Okay Tama, I want to meet this woman and see what was making you all gushy inside.”
When your Nina Heitiare and I met your mom, my skepticism changed to enthusiasm as I felt that I knew your mother for years after just one day. Your mother, Cheryl, showed me in one day that she is a very kind hearted soul that genially welcomes everyone in without any prejudice or judgment. She is very respectful of people and always wanted them to feel comfortable, regardless of what was going on. She is a great listener and was involved in the entire conversations providing great perspectives on various topics that we talked about. She is funny and had humility at the same time cracking jokes about herself. Your Nina and I were instantly in awww with your mom as she lit up the room with her aura! We are so happy that your dad found your mom.
Here is a poem that that would give you a sense of who your mom is to us:
Two Types of Friends -- Real & Simple
A simple friend has never seen you cry.
A real friend has shoulders soggy from your tears.
A simple friend doesn't know your parents' first names.
A real friend has their phone numbers in his address book.
A simple friend brings a bottle of wine to your party.
A real friend comes early to help you cook and clean.
A simple friend hates it when you call after he has gone to bed.
A real friend asks you why you took so long to call.
A simple friend seeks to talk with you about their problems.
A real friend seeks to help you with your problems.
A simple friend wonders about your romantic history.
A real friend could blackmail you with it.
A simple friend, when visiting, acts like a guest.
A real friend opens your refrigerator and helps himself.
A simple friend thinks the friendship is over when you have an argument.
A real friend knows that it's not a friendship until after you've had a fight.
A simple friend expects you to always be there for them.
A real friend expects to always be there for you!
Your mom is a real friend of ours and we will hold and cherish everything that we shared with her including you. Nene, we will keep your mom’s legacy alive through teaching you about your mom Cheryl and how she changed our lives.
Love you,
Nino Bobby, Nina Heitiare and Heiarii
I remember when your dad told me that he met your mom…his voice was full of excitement and bursting with joy and happiness. Now at the time, I didn’t think much of it because your dad is always so optimistic about everyone and everything that he puts his heart in, however, your mom had a different effect on your dad. Your dad was glowing with radiance because he met his soul mate and never had any cares in the world! So being the skeptical Nino that I am, I was like,” Okay Tama, I want to meet this woman and see what was making you all gushy inside.”
When your Nina Heitiare and I met your mom, my skepticism changed to enthusiasm as I felt that I knew your mother for years after just one day. Your mother, Cheryl, showed me in one day that she is a very kind hearted soul that genially welcomes everyone in without any prejudice or judgment. She is very respectful of people and always wanted them to feel comfortable, regardless of what was going on. She is a great listener and was involved in the entire conversations providing great perspectives on various topics that we talked about. She is funny and had humility at the same time cracking jokes about herself. Your Nina and I were instantly in awww with your mom as she lit up the room with her aura! We are so happy that your dad found your mom.
Here is a poem that that would give you a sense of who your mom is to us:
Two Types of Friends -- Real & Simple
A simple friend has never seen you cry.
A real friend has shoulders soggy from your tears.
A simple friend doesn't know your parents' first names.
A real friend has their phone numbers in his address book.
A simple friend brings a bottle of wine to your party.
A real friend comes early to help you cook and clean.
A simple friend hates it when you call after he has gone to bed.
A real friend asks you why you took so long to call.
A simple friend seeks to talk with you about their problems.
A real friend seeks to help you with your problems.
A simple friend wonders about your romantic history.
A real friend could blackmail you with it.
A simple friend, when visiting, acts like a guest.
A real friend opens your refrigerator and helps himself.
A simple friend thinks the friendship is over when you have an argument.
A real friend knows that it's not a friendship until after you've had a fight.
A simple friend expects you to always be there for them.
A real friend expects to always be there for you!
Your mom is a real friend of ours and we will hold and cherish everything that we shared with her including you. Nene, we will keep your mom’s legacy alive through teaching you about your mom Cheryl and how she changed our lives.
Love you,
Nino Bobby, Nina Heitiare and Heiarii
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