"Embry Family"
In loving memory of
Brenden Stephen Foster
October 4, 1997 - November 21, 2008
By KOMO Staff
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BOTHELL, Wash. -- The truckfuls of food donated in Brenden Foster's honor are now in the hands of the hungry.
The beloved boy lived long enough to see his final wish to help the homeless come true. After he died, his mother was able to see what he had accomplished.
Wendy Foster hadn't left home since her son died in her arms last Friday. But this week, she and her family went to Food Lifeline to see what a difference he made just one day before he passed.
Wendy saw boxes stacked to the ceiling marked with her boy's name to be shipped to shelters and food banks.
"This is amazing," Wendy said. "This is the biggest gift. I couldn't ask for a better gift."
And what Wendy saw was only a small part of what was left. A food drive in Brenden's honor collected enough food to fill seven semi-trucks as well as $95, 000 in cash donations. And this week, Wendy herself delivered a huge check to Food Lifeline.
"I am very pleased to hand this over to you -- $43, 300," she said.
"Oh, my gosh," said Camilla Bishop of Food Lifeline as she accepted the donation.
Wendy herself has needed help feeding her family. Caring for Brenden became her full-time job and wiped out the family's finances.
"We've been very close to being on the streets ourselves," she said.
While the donations impressed Brenden's little brother, it was the food in the freezer section that blew him away.
"It was like ice cream land. There was so much ice cream it wasn't even funny!" said Mitchel Foster.
Wendy also finally got to meet Northwest Harvest's Shelley Rotondo, who had so much she wanted to say to Wendy.
"I'm so sorry. Your son made a big, big, big difference," she said.
Wendy handed Rotondo a check, too --the remaining half of the donations.
"I can tell you this will be hundreds of thousands of meals this will translate into," Rotondo said as she tearfully accepted the check.
Just 67 cents can feed a family. But the sum of Brenden's wish is about more than money; it's the message.
"He was an amazing young man and he knew how times were," said Rotondo.
"And we were always on the border of being there ourselves," Wendy said.
Wendy wasn't able to grieve until Brenden was gone. She kept a brave face for her son, promising not to give leukemia any more tears. But when she saw all the donated food in person, she could no longer hold them back.
"Makes me miss him, but also amazing to see what he accomplished," she said.
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All memorial services for Brenden Foster will be closed to the public. However, those who wish to send flowers can do so to Evergreen Washelli at 11111 Aurora Avenue North Seattle, WA 98133 on Dec. 6, the day of his funeral. Red roses are said to have been his favorite.
Donations can be made to the Brenden Foster Cancer Fund at any branch of Washington Mutual Bank.
The Dream Within
Written in memory of
Brenden Stephen Foster
A child who was about to enter the Realms of Heaven asked: "Why at such a young age' I could have done more." Suddenly a young angel appeared and spoke...
It is not our years but it is our dreams That gives to others, lends help, and feeds Because it is not our age, but the youth inside That makes the change and turns the tide
For no one knows how much time they have But to those who give with loving hands Leave deeds that reach beyond their lives You see, It's not one's age, but the dream inside
And Brenden,
At times your dreams you cannot fulfill
But the love you gave will inspires others will For your dream may be just a seed Yet from your hope, others will fulfill the need
For it's the dreams we have and the deeds we do That flowers the humanity between me and you You said: "follow your dreams" beyond your years Yes, That's how the spirit goes on beyond life's tears
So it is not our time but the love we gave That is how our world is saved For you leave a legacy behind That says:
It's not the years but our hope inside
Hand by hand and side by side
It's not the years we're given, but the dream inside
In Lasting Memory,
Eric S. Kingston & Family
Dying boy inspires goodwill in people near and far
YouNewsâ„¢
Story Published: Nov 10, 2008 at 7:15 PM PST
Story Updated: Nov 21, 2008 at 8:49 PM PST
By KOMO Staff
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BOTHELL, Wash. -- An 11-year-old boy's dying wish to feed the homeless has taken on a life of its own, sparking a movement to help the hungry nationwide.
Doctors gave Brenden Foster two weeks to live. His time was up last Wednesday.
"I should be gone in a week or so," he said last Friday.
On Monday, groggy and medicated, Brenden was having a rough day.
"Tired," he said, visibly weak.
"You need some more medicine," said his mother, Wendy Foster, stroking his head.
Leukemia halted the young life of Brenden, who once dreamed of becoming a marine photographer. Brenden has relapsed for the last time. There is no chemo, no more transfusions; just comfort medications.
"I'm hoping I'm awake when he decides to pass because I want to make sure I'm holding him," Wendy later said.
Brenden survived his leukemia long enough to witness his dying wish come true. Last Friday Brenden shared his last wish to feed the homeless.
"I was coming back from one of my clinic appoints and I saw this big thing of homeless people, and then I thought I should just get them something," he said.
Volunteers handed out 200 homemade sandwiches to the homeless to fulfill his wish.
"They're probably starving, so give them a chance," he said.
On Monday, Brenden could barely keep his eyes open as he watched a video of volunteers feeding Seattle's homeless on his behalf.
Over the weekend, his wish went national on CNN. And KOMO News received phone calls from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Clearly in pain, Brenden still managed to smile as he listened to stories about the phone calls and e-mails his story had inspired. His story touched many people from all walks of life, from families fighting cancer to men in the military.
"I think it's great, all over the country..." Brenden said.
"He made my dream come true. In my lifetime, I wanted to change the world and my son did that," said Wendy. "The world is such a beautiful place and that became evident the last 72 hours, and Brenden did that."
Brenden has one more wish for the afterlife: become an angel who accomplishes even more in heaven than he did on Earth.
"I don't need to worry about it until the time has come. So I don't bother think about it while I'm still alive; now," he said.
How to help
In Brenden's honor, KOMO News will be holding a food drive for Northwest Harvest and Food Lifeline. You can drop off food on Thursday, November 20th at Fred Meyer stores in Issaquah, Federal Way or Brenden's hometown of Bothell.
If you can't make it in person, you can donate online by going to the Problem Solvers donation page and select "Brenden Foster Food Drive" from the donation options list.
The family is struggling to cover the costs of Brenden's funeral. Donations to the "Brenden Foster Cancer Fund" can be made at any Washington Mutual bank branch.
Tributes
"Scott Louderback"
"Michele LeBlanc"
"Evergreen Washelli, with heartfelt sympathy"
"Brenden, You are a hero to many in a time of great need. You are a loving little boy to a family that will always love you. You are a saviour to the bees. To me you will always be the beautiful little boy who changed the world with a single act of love and bravery. Brenden and the Foster family who raised B-man to be the amazing little boy he is will always hold a special place in the hearts of the thousands who heard Brendens call. Rest with the angels B-Man"
"MAY YOU FLY HIGH.THANK YOU FOR WHAT YOU BROUGHT OUT IN MYSELF.GOD SPEED.THOUGHTS& PRAYERS FOR YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS.LOVE YOU B-MAN"
""Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but the moments that take our breath away." Thank you Brenden, for sharing your wish with us. You truly changed the world. Many thanks to your family, for sharing your gentle soul with us. May God comfort your family and friends left behind. Until we meet again little one, may God bless."
"My most sincee condolences. Brenden carried the voice of God beautifully and his work was accomplished. An angel was in our midst. Thank you Brenden for being such a magnificent messenger from God to humanity."
"Brenden, you were an angel on earth; the world is crying today. We will never forget you; may your gentle soul rest in peace. Love, David, Vanida, Joshua, Nolen and Taylor Long, Robins Air Force Base, GA."
"Brenden - I knew you on earth only from your desire to feed the hungry. You were God's instrument here on earth, and you brought many to the realization that we need to reorder our priorities. Thanks for the wake-up call."
"Brenden, Thank you for your loving heart. My family has been touched by you in a way we never thought possible. We love you and will always hold you near our hearts. With love, Brian, Sarah and Madeline Wilson"
"Brenden, You are the bravest, strongest, kindest little boy we know. You have touched our hearts and we will think of you and your acts of kindness for days to come."
"I dont even know you, but what a strong little guy.....thanks little buddy, you touch a lot of hearts..R.I.P. my friend."
"Wendy, I am so sorry for your loss, yet I am truly inspired by what Brenden accomplished in his years here on earth, an angel with curly hair and a loving smile. I'm am sorry for your and your family's heartache but please know, his example of seeking help for the needy while his own life was so hard, will make me a better person. You will be in all my good thoughts. God Bless you all. Ellen-I met you and Brenden when he was here at Providence- I'm the chocolate queen."
"What an amazing young man Brenden was. I saw him on television and was so touched by him. He was a gift to the world and I am so grateful to have seen the great love and compassion he expressed."
"Rest now in Our Fathers loving arms B-man, your task on earth done, and what a task for a valiant young man..Rest well good and faithful servant, for you have restored my faith. Because of you young man I am looking at the world around me in a whole new way. Rest in Peace B-man"
"Dear Wendy, My deepest sympathy for the loss of Your Son. May God give You peace at this moment of life. Brendan Sweetie rest in Peace. I am sure our Heaven father will be tightly holding You. Hope and Wish to See You buddy there when we come. Best Regards to Your Mother Wendy and to Your Family from us here in Ireland. Satish Sadasivan"
"Brenden's selfless wishes, his sweetness and his Beautiful soul IS such an inspiration. His legacy will live on. His spirit will continue to be with us. Fly high Brenden..over all of us! And tell my angel that I can't wait to be there with him!!!"
"Our oldest son had ALL 94,98 and home to Jesus Nov,03.I was at Michael W Smith.com at saw the link to Brenden. Brenden has now met Matthew so can't even begin to explain the connection between these two precious boys. We moved from Tacoma, Wa in 04 miss PNW Dear Wendy always keep Brenden dream alive it is life giving and will celebrate Brenden and his joy Brenden as Matthew changed my life you have inspired me once again to choose joy to live above the clouds and to care for people who can't care for themselves for whatever reason it doesn't matter the fact is every person matters to the Lord and you made a huge difference. I only wish I could have meet you but I know I will someday Thank you for allowing me far away to be apart of the most important part of your life. Wendy please look up Ecclesiastes Chapter 7 verse1-3. A friend gave me this a couple of months before Matthew went home. Lord wrap your arms around this dear family and He holds every tear in a bottle. Love from Missouri"
"I will always remember you Brenden Foster and I will always pray for your family for they raised a beautiful wonderful loving person like you. Your memory will live forever in our hearts. I hope my son Joshua was there to welcome you because he will be proud to know the B-man. Love, Sheila "Sue" Laws"
"You were truly an angel on earth. I feel blessed to have known you. Shalom Brenden."
"Brenden, Thank You for making a difference. You have inspired me to take on volunteering. It was an honor and a privlege to help "Stuff the Truck" on your behalf. You are the proof that one person can make a difference in the world. Thank you Jerri Fralin"
"Dear Brenden -- Thank you for your kindness and compassion, and for inspiring me and so many others to help people in need. And come springtime, I'll be sprinkling wildflower seeds to help the bees. I'm sorry you had to leave us so soon, but we are all so very lucky to have you as an angel watching over us. Thank you!"
"Brenden, you have touched the hearts of people around the world with your kind heart. Thank you for giving people hope that there is still good in the world. We have never met, but we will never forget you."
"I will never forget you. You have touched me and so many around you. I am sorry I will never get the chance to meet such a honarable young man. I will always remember you and see you in the face of my little boy whom looks so much like you and by my continuing to keep your dreams alive. God Bless you as you keep watch over all of us until we all meet you again."
"Dear B-Man, Today your family will say goodbye to the body that encased your beautiful soul for 11 years, this will be such a hard day for them, so I know your sweet little soul will stick very close to them, at times it will be you, holding your momma and grandma up. I had to come back in here and sign your tribute again so that I could tell you and your family what you have done for me, a stranger, old fart here in Maryland yep I just felt your smile B-Man, oldd ladies can be funny too! I lost my son Joshua at age 22 to brain cancer/ Morgellons, a new disease being studied by CDC now. For years doctor's have told those of us who suffer that we were crazy. It is passed from mother to child and that hurts so much that my body caused him such suffering. He was my youngest, my only son, my pride and my joy. I got stuck there in the hase of denial, yes I knew my child was dead thats so hard to say but yes somewhere back in my mind I knew that. Yet, night after night I'd set and wait, looking at that clock and thinking, boy I sure wish he'd get home soon, I'm so very tired. Yes at some point during the night, mostly early morning I would face that gut wrenching knowledge, he's gone and go to bed at the point of passing out "nope I do not drink" the passing out part came from the overwhelming fatigue that Mom's carry in their hearts. Joshua was such fun, you'd have loved him B-Man and I'm feeling so sure you two are having a blast cloud jumping. He had been rebuilding a old GMC truck, he wanted it painted bright yellow with a bee painted on the hood. The bee connection really tugged at my heart B-Man because Josh would want to save them too. And I know with the two of you working together, Things will get done. But all of us here will be spreading wildflower seeds like crazy to help out and I also want you to know I have been and will continue for the rest of my life to add the little $5 stamp for the the hungry to my bill at the grocer everytime I go, that's twice a week till the end of my days here.at I will do that in your honor B-Man. OK I better let you know why I wrote this before folks start thinking a nut got lose "hee hee I did another one" Brenden and Tracy and brother, Grandma and all of the family. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and I do mean that more then any words I have ever said. I have not cried for my Joshua, he died Feb. 17, 2006, almost 3 years ago and I've not did the morning I need to just go on. I have been here, but not, like a moving stone, a dark cloud has hung over me for almost 3 years. When I started following your story, that really hit home because you remind me so much of my Josh, I started to cry, I've been crying for close to two weeks now sweetie, I'm feeling something very heavy lift off my sholders, a very big release. Brenden I am not crying for Leukemia or any kind of cancer, they only get my anger, nothing more. I'm crying because this old world of ours has lost my Josh and you Brenden. I can now only imagin what the two of you could have done here on earth and we've lost so much, more then the world will ever know, but something Tracy and I will share in the knowlege forever. My Josh was so like you. I want to tell you one story about him before I go. At his funeral a young man I'd never met stood up to tell us all how he'd come to meet my Josh. The year before, the last month that my Josh was able to work, Josh dreamed of having his own bay, he loved motors, love all of them from the motor on a lawn mower to the one in a race car. He'd just got his own work bay and was so proud of that, he wanted so much to live, he loved and enjoyed every moment, just like you sweetie. Well this young man stood up to speak about my Josh, he told us about a night that was cold and raining, his car broke down, with no phone he was down right scared. My Josh pulled over and offered help, he looked at the car in the pouring rain, he took the young man to a parts store to get the needed part to fix it, Josh paid for the part because the guy had no money and he told the guy to set in his truck and stay warm while my beautiful son fixed his car. I remembered the night when Josh came home soaking wet and told me what happened. OH no I'd got so upset because I was so worried about his getting wet and cold. He laughed at me and said Oh Ma it was someone who needed help, thats what we do. Yes thats what the Joshua's and Brenden's of our world will do, they were our angel's here on earth so we must continue there work. I'm so sorry for mispelled words and takin up so much space. I had to thank you Tracy for sharing him with us and Brenden thank you sweetie for the tears, thank you. Now you go rest sweetheart. My love to the family, Sheila "Sue" Laws Gaithersburg, MD"
"No tears in heaven. Your leading the little children in heaven now. Just what God had planned. You are a treasure we will never let go of. When times get rough we will think of you Brenden. You knew no fear only love and devotion. Can't wait to give you a hug. Thank you God for giving us Brendon. Wendy you must have been a very special person for God to pick you for Brendens mom. My whole family fell in love with the little guy. Doug Jenny, Alfie, Dawn and TJ. God bless you Wendy."
"The Rose Beyond the Wall Near a shady wall a rose once grew, Budded and blossomed in God's free light, Watered and fed by the morning dew, Shedding it's sweetness day and night. As it grew and blossomed fair and tall, Slowly rising to loftier height, It came to a crevice in the wall Through which there shone a beam of light. Onward it crept with added strength With never a thought of fear or pride, It followed the light through the crevice's length And unfolded itself on the other side. The light, the dew, the broadening view Were found the same as they were before, And it lost itself in beauties new, Breathing it's fragrance more and more. Shall claim of death cause us to grieve And make our courage faint and fall? Nay! Let us faith and hope receive-- The rose still grows beyond the wall, Scattering fragrance far and wide Just as it did in days of yore, Just as it did on the other side, Just as it will forevermore. ~ A. L. Frink ~ We send our condolences to your family. We are the family of John Shannon Deanda. He left us in 2002. He was a heart patient. He was 14. Not unlike Brenden. We miss him. He was so giving, just like Brendon. We have sent prayers to St. Ambrose, Patron Saint of the Bees, Milan, Italy. We the filmakers of the world salute you Brenden. I'm a professional cameraperson in Hollywood. I am sure we would have loved to have someone as sweet as you join our organizations here in Hollywood. We salute you Brendon. God Bless your sweet soul."
"I Saw this story on the Sunday after Young Brenden passed away. To Brendens Family. This little boy and done alot for me in my life, and I never even met him. I've become an huge admirer of his these last few weeks. My prayers are with you and your family in this time of your lost. I'd like to share some words with you. "I am only one, but still I am one: I cannot do everything: But still I can do something: And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do." "What the caterpillar thinks is the end of the World...the butterfly knows is only the beginning." Letter to Brenden. It's been along time since I said a prayer. But I say one to you and your family. You've done more in your life here on earth, than some of us will ever do in ours Brenden. I now have a new Hero, someone who's not afraid, someone who helps, and thinks of others. You're my new Hero Brenden. Thank You. I'll see you someday, and I'll tell you this in person. I Can't thank you enough Brenden, but thank you for showing me that there is still some good left in this world. Take Care, and rest it peace Buddy. Sincerely,"
"Thinking of you B-man today and everyday...keeping your family in my prayers."
"BRENDEN FOSTER Eleven years old and from Seattle, with two weeks to live he forgets about his battle. Tells his mom before I die, I'd like to feed the hungry that are living outside. Dying of Leukemia this brave little boy, never ask for a vacation or even a toy. I'd like to help others before I die, never a thought of sadness or even his own cry. His wish touched thousands across the land, from Seattle to Florida, everyone was giving a helping hand. His name is Brenden Foster, he's a hero in my book, His heart touched so many, no one gave it a second look. Eleven years old and barely alive, he saw his dream come true just before he died. Making others life better, was his final dream, as he died in his mothers arms, on Friday morning. He walked into Heaven with a smile on his face, as Angels applauded his work of grace. And when he met Jesus I'm sure he heard, Your legacy will forever bless, those on earth. So come now my child and walk with me, for you are now sickness free. So Thank you Brenden for all that you did, you touched so many life's, and you were just a kid. ...Russ Acree This Poem is Dedicated to the Family of Brenden Foster. A True Hero"
"Dear Wendy Brenden touched my heart with his compassion and unselfish love. Such a young sweet person with the spirit of god. May he rest in eternal peace and may god give you peace knowing that your son is resting in our lords loving arms. Brenden did more as an eleven year old than most grown-ups do in a lifetime. Beatrice Baker"
"Lee Keating"
"David Lukov"