| | | | A new found love with Cole Ruotsala |
By Beth White
Have you ever had a connection with someone that was so incredible and so amazing that they completely changed your life in a way you never thought possible? Well that is what happened to Cole Ruotsala and I. I heard about Cole through a caringbridge friend of mine in the summer of 2008. I saw his picture and instantly fell in love. Not just any kind of love but a love that defies a life changing event. That’s when I found out Cole was diagnosed with childhood cancer. Unfortunately this sweet little boy lost his battle on September 19th; after a short 8 week fight. My life would never be the same.
It was while driving along the Wisconsin roads (on my way to Wisconsin Dells for a family vacation) that I realized just how much this little boy and his family meant to me. Its crazy, the feelings and emotions I have towards the Ruotsala family and I haven’t even met them. What does Cole mean to me? I’ve never met sweet Cole but his inspiration is so overwhelming and just about impossible to put into words. Cole taught me never to take people for granted, that in a blink of an eye anything can happen. Cole taught me never to question God’s doing and that he has a plan for all of us. Cole taught me that we are in this great big world together and that we all need to stick together and “BE THERE for each other. Cole taught me not to count the days, but to make the days count. Cole taught me to
Hug a little tighter, love a little longer, and don't forget to "Be There" because tomorrow you nor they may not "Be Here." This is the legacy of Cole.
In October of 2008 Aaron Ruotsala (Cole’s daddy) created a foundation to keep Cole’s legacy alive. C.O.L.E.s Foundation (www.colesfoundation.com) is not just a foundation but more like a family. A family that offers prayer, support, awareness, friendship, and so much more. C.O.L.E.’s Foundation stands for Caring Openly, Loving Eternally and it is a wonderful foundation and I am so honored to be apart of it. Please take a minute to look at Cole’s caringbridge website and C.O.L.E.’s Foundation. Drop them a line of encouragement. You never know if you’ll ever need the C.O.L.E.’s Foundation Prayer Team to “Be There”.
From Cole's Dad: "When life was at its bottom, we had no place else to turn, no other place to direct our focus, but up. Life changed so fast. Everything was suddenly stopped. All the hustle and bustle of this world stopped in an instant. We realized how little we are tied to this life and how much our focus needs to be to things that matter. Things that have the ability to change our eternal resting place. God Bless, Aaron and Moireen"
www.colesfoundation.com
www.caringbridge.org/visit/coleruotsala
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Cole, you now have an article on family lobby's website. WOO HOO!!!!
Beth White
I don't know what else to say but Praise God! Aaron
Aaron
Tears, and more tears. Cole is an amazing little boy. He had this impact on me and my kids as well. It's hard to put in to words the place Cole has in my heart. We love you, Cole!!Lynn
Lynn Larsen
How Awesome is our God He truly works in ways that we can't even imagine. Cole and his precious family have touched my life in a way that I can't describe.
Beth Herring
Beth - you wrote exactly how I feel. It truly is amazing how close you can feel to a child through CaringBridge and CarePages. I pray for all of my "kids" everyday and love them so much.....Thank you for writing what is in my heart. Thank you, Ruotsala's, for sharing your precious Cole with us and keeping his legacy in such a wonderful way. It is heartwarming to know we touch so many people with our prayers. Ii am truly honored to be a part of C.O.L.E. Prayer Team. Jane (hugs)
Jane O'Donnell
In times of heartache, we tend to ask, "Where is God in this?"We should be asking, "Where are God's people?"Cole's precious life and family lit some kind of fire under God's people and we came together - to celebrate Cole, to worship He Who Gives and Takes Away and to carry on the legacy of Sweet Cole by embracing others who need Christ's body here on earth.Ruotsala Family, you are loved.
C. Brace
I feel so honored to have also met Cole through the web. What an amazing little boy and family! Cole has forever changed many of our lives and his legacy will live on!
Heather White
Thank you Beth for so eloquently saying just how much Cole and his family have come to mean to me and the tremendous impact they have made on my life.
Wendy Woolford
I just found Cole's caring bridge page a couple of weeks ago through another caringbridge page that I follow very closely and I have been touched so very closely by him and his story. He reminds me so of my two year old son--that blond hair and those beautiful blue eyes and a smile that will melt your heart. He reminds me everytime I check Aaron's updates to be thankful for what I have. He has inspired me in more than one way and C.O.L.E.s foundation is AWESOME!!!! What a great way to keep his spirit alive--I truly love this little boy and keep your family in my prayers each and every day!! May god bless you Aaron and Moireen. We love you Cole and think about you but know you are in a better place smiling down on us all :)
Shelley Reynolds
I cant agree with you more. That little angel Cole touched me in ways words can describe. God definitely knew he would get alot of hits during those last 8 weeks of Cole's life.Im a deaf gal and... Cole reminded me to appreciate the things I have, not the things I sometimes long for (hearing).I thank you again for taking the time to type up an inspiring story of an amzaing boy and family. I know you have encouraged his parents.Thank you, for BEING THERE!!Heidi Carrico
heidi carrico
Cole's life touched many, mine included. He was a special little boy...beyond words special. I think the organization Aaron and Moireen have established is a wonderful tribute to their precious little warrior. They have the love and the support of many. May life bless them richly in the future.From Georgia,Jules & Family
Jules H
Cole and his family have made me realize to slow down and take more time with my children! Things I thought were so important to get done right now, now can wait. God Bless.
Sara Jacobson
I feel so honored to have also met Cole through the web. What an amazing little boy and family! Cole has forever changed many of our lives and his legacy will live on!
Heather White
I too am a C.O.L.E Prayer Team member and am SO proud to be. Cole and his family touched my life in so many ways, many of the same ways your wrote in your article. What a beautiful article for a BEAUTIFUL, AMAZING, WONDERFUL little boy and his family!
Christina Gomez
Beth, you explained just how I (and many others) feel so perfectly! What a blessing it was to come across little Cole's caringbridge sight, for my life will never be the same! I truly do slow down now and enjoy my children... before it seemed like I was just busy doing what needed to be done for them and I didn't take that time to enjoy the blessings they are. Cole taught me so much in his little life... I am eternally grateful and oneday when I get to heaven I will thank him!
Tiffany Grant
Beth, what a wonderful article! You stole the words right from my heart. Perfectly said. Thank you.
Angel Ranzau
Thank you so much Beth for writing this and putting into words what the rest of us feel. I can tell you that Cole and his family has changed my life. I am SO PROUD to be a part of this family in Christ.
Jill Aimone
Beth,You put in words what so many people around the world felt and still feel after meeting Cole and his family on his carebridge site. Thank you for expressing how so many feel. God is so awsome that he can lets us love each other without ever meeting or touch. Thanks you.....God Bless
Dianne Hands
You expressed so eloquently exactly how I felt while praying for Cole on his site. As young as he was....he had the heart of a grown man. He will be missed by those of us who never met him.I am also in awe of his dad and his postings on Cole's site. God's blessings to you Beth and to Cole's Dad.
Nancy Greer
Beth, you did an amazing job putting into words what so many feel! Thank you! God bless :)
Melodie Langstraat
It's funny how we all seem to share the same feelings! Thank you for bringing tears to my eyes and putting a smile on my face this morning. I thank God for bringing Cole into my life, and for allowing me to be a part of the C.O.L.E. Prayer Team everyday. God Bless!
Marissa Cool
Cole has touched so many! I couldn't put it into better words, because he has changed my life in the same ways. In this constant battle with cancer that my family experiences, we are at an extreme time and need for prayer for my Mom right now. I thank God every day for having the opportunity to be touched by Cole, especially during the difficult times we're experiencing in our own family, because Cole and his family has helped me become more in touch with God and appreciate every day. Praise GOD! :)
Rachael Paquette
Beth - that too, is exactly how I felt. I was lead to Cole's website while reading a favorite blog - I had no idea how it would affect me.I have been so blessed to be a part of this AMAZING family.
Tresa Collins
I never met precious Cole but he touched me, blessed me and made me a better person. I thank God for allowing me to share in Cole's short life here on earth and look forward to the day I will be able to meet him in heaven. Thank you Ruotsala's for sharing your little angel with me. God Bless your family!
Linda Wells
Beautiful article to describe Cole and his family. Your words were the same thoughts that I have. We owe it all to our sweet angel Cole and his awesome parents. Thank-you Ruotsala family for sharing your remarkable little guy with us. God Bless each of you. You truly have made a huge impact on the entire world.
Marlene Wegner
Cole meant so much to all of us. Beth, you have done so much to keep Cole's legacy alive. Thanks for all you do.
Dara Young
THIS IS JUST BEAUTIFUL. THIS LITTLE BOY HAS CHANGED SO MANY LIVES ALL OVER THE WORLD. MY WHOLE OUTLOOK ON THIS LIFE WE LIVE ON EARTH IS COMPLETLY DIFFERENT ALL OWED TO THIS BEAUTIFUL LITTLE ANGEL. WE LOVE YOU COLE!!
MELISSA R.
It's funny how you get so connected to someone you don't know. I went through all these same emotions and I am also part of this foundation. Thanks for these wonderful words that express what each of us have felt about this family from the moment we touch the Caringbridge page! Love to the Ruotsala family!
Erin Sanderson
Thank you, Cole, for doing so much for all of these families and being such a beautiful little boy. We love you very much!!
Chelsea Clarke
Your article brought tears to my eyes. You said everything I would of said. Because of Cole, I spend every day with my 9 year old like it's the last, my love, more hugs and just listening to him. Than you
Anna Youngren
I am another soul who Cole changed forever. Thank you Cole!
Richard Carter
What a beautiful article to write on behalf of Cole and his family. I couldn't agree more. I know it changed my life for the better as well. Instead of putting all my time and energy into working and telling my children "Maybe later, mommy is too busy right now" or missing all of their school activities because work has to come first. I now make my children and our family a priority and I make the time to "Be There" when I need to. Our children aren't to be kids forever. Before you know it they are graduated and on their own and you wonder where the years went and why you didn't spend more time with them. I am lucky enough to know the Ruotsala family, and admire the strength and love they have and share.
Juli Anderson
It's an honor to be a part of this Foundation - an honor to prayer for others in need - an honor to "know" this precious family without ever meeting them. Cole changed my life and I will be forever Thankful.
Heather Gable
This is awesome Beth. I've learned alot about childhood cancer through this adorable little fellow. This family is just like family and never met them. I look forward to reading the update every day. My prayers go out to this family and thanks so much for the C.O.L.E's prayer team for our little one Clark Michael Wilkes. This prayer is just wonderful. Thanks to every one again.
Eloise Griffin
This is so true. Cole has changed some many lives. I am so proud to belong to his foundation.
Sheri Still
Beautiful, absolutely beautiful.www.caringbridge.org/visit/michaelcarlo
Shannon
I think you took the words right out of the mouths of many, Beth. Cole and the whole Ruotsala family have made an impact on thousands upon thousands of people. In knowing that we have no guarantees, we learn to take nothing for granted...so "BE THERE" and NEVER count the days but make the days count!! It's truly an honor to be a part of C.O.L.E.'s Prayer Team and I lift up the Ruotsala family in prayer each day. Take good care, God Bless and shine on sweet Cole.
Carla Hood
This is so true. Cole was put on this earth for a reason and Cole touched so many lifes.
Maria Fleming
I think you took the words right out of the mouths of many, Beth. Cole and the whole Ruotsala family have made an impact on thousands upon thousands of people. In knowing that we have no guarantees, we learn to take nothing for granted...so "BE THERE" and NEVER count the days but make the days count!! It's truly an honor to be a part of C.O.L.E.'s Prayer Team and I lift up the Ruotsala family in prayer each day. Take good care, God Bless and shine on sweet Cole.
Carla Hood
I also was blown away by Cole Ruotsala and his family. I am forever changed. I am truly honnored to be apart of this amazing foundation or should I say family. I will also say it is the hardest thing I have ever done to see the pain and suffering of so many children, but to know that my words and actions bring comfort to these families makes every tear that runs down my face worth it. God Bless Us All.--Jennifer Ellis
Jennifer Ellis
Beth this is such a beautiful article. I feel the same way. Cole and his family have touched me in a way that I can't even explain. I am truly proud to be apart of the "family"!
Taya Pollins
I too have followed Cole since he was diagnosed and he has completely changed my life. The way I live day to day is different because of him. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of him and the Ruotsala family. Thank you for sharing your amazing son with us, he is truly one of Gods angels.
Tammy Naber
I don't know what else to say but Praise God! Aaron
Aaron
Yes our family also has been changed because of this sweet little angel who came into our lives by chance..Love to all The meyer family
annemarie
There really isn't any other words to describe how we truely feel for this wonderful family. Beth has written the words that all of us find so hard to put together. Aaron, your family simply amazes me! & Cole truely has been a blessing to everyone who has known him & followed him through Caringbridge. We all love you! I truely know that our beautiful angels we all share in heaven are looking upon us & getting us through everyday, good or bad. God bless you all.
Tracy Tomany
I have also followed Cole's story. I have a little boy of my own and I am forever changed because of Cole. I will NEVER take a single moment for granted. That sweet little boy has changed so many lives in his short time with us.
Melissa
I followed Cole's website as well, he an his amazing story really touched my heart as well. God is the only answer to life's difficulties. Cole was put on this earth to be a big witness to everyone and he has definately done that, my life will never be the same because of him! I know now to love, laugh, and make each moment count - because tomorrow may be too late!
Pam DeLong
It is truly amazing how much Cole has changed our lives for the better. This sweet little boy brought us all together. I am honored to be part of the prayer team as well. God Bless you all.
Kelly
Isnt it amazing how Cole brought out so much love in so many people. He was a real life angel long sent to earth to remind us of what is important in life.
Rhiann
I was sent to Coles site by an e-mail in the late summer, and I was instantly drawn to this little guy. I started praying and continued up until he got his wings. Aaron, such an amazing person, just amazed me during this time, and then he started C.O.L.E. Prayer Team and the foundation. Cole changed my life forever, I now have several children I pray for each day. You get drawn into these families and become a part of them. Coles family will always be special to me as long as I live, for they put me on a path of being able to give something to people. My life will never be the same, and I thank God that so many people are getting involved. I will always beleive Cole was put here to bring us together. Thank you Beth White for such an awesome article. God Bless all of you.Mary
Mary Holton
That really sums up my thoughts as well, Beth. Although we never met, I felt and still feel as if Cole were my own son. There was an instant connection that I just cannot and don't want to let go of. Aaron and Moireen were so generous in sharing Cole with all of us and I am a better person for it. I look at life completely different because of Cole. Every day I as I check the site and see that little buddy smiling with those amazing eyes, it brings me instantly back to what we should all be about: Caring Openly, Loving Eternally. I too am so proud to be a part of this wonderful group of people and this cause. Thank you again Cole for opening my eyes to what really matters in life.
Hollie Mader
I am not very good at trying to convey what is in my heart when it comes to putting it into words. Beth... everything that you wrote is exactly what I too am feeling. I fell in love with Cole the first time I saw him on the Caring Bridge site when he was first diagnosed. Something that I can't explain happened to me at that moment. He immediately made his way into my heart. Cole was and still is a very special little boy and now a very special little angel. I still cry when I think of him and all that he and his family went through. I still deeply mourn his passing. It has affected me like no one else ever has. I have never met Cole and yet I feel as if I have lost one of my own children. I love the Routsala family as if they were related. How can you not love them??? I love the video of Cole when he was talking on the phone. I love when Alaya was asking "whose this" and Cole answers "Cole" and with a twinkle in his eye he starts to laugh. Another favorite part of that video is when Alaya and Cole are playing with Playdough and Cole gets up to go in the other room to get a dinosaur. Aaron is trying to stop Cole so that he doesn't pull the IV out. Alaya gets up says "I'll move it Cole" meaning the IV pole and moves it for Cole. What a beautiful little sweetheart she is. You could see the bond between Cole and Alaya. I always keep Alaya in my prayers. She must be hurting and missing Cole so much. I have truly learned so much from that beautiful little boy. I want to say thank you to Beth for all that she has done and for that wonderful tribute to Cole. You are amazing! Aaron & MoireenFirst I want to thank you for sharing your beautiful angel Cole with us. I only wish that it was under better circumstances. I can see where Cole got his strength and caring nature from. For you to have the strength and energy to start the COLE Foundation at a time when the devastating loss of Cole was still so raw, amazes me. God Bless you for all that you have done. The COLE Foundation has already helped so many families who have children that are dealing with life threatning illnesses or who have suffered the loss of a child due to cancer. We need to get the word out to the government and researchers that a lot more money needs to be put into cancer research so that no parent should have to go through watching their child or loved one suffer from this evil disease. May God hear our prayers and grant us a cure for this devastating disease. Love, Hugs & continued PrayersJackieC.O.L.E Prayer TeamCaring Openly, Loving Eternallywww.colesfoundation.com Jackie Fuller Lattanzio jfullerlatt@comcast.net CT
Jackie Fuller Lattanzio
Beth, It's like you took a "snap-shot" picture of my heart and soul and spelled it out! I wouldn't change a word, I feel the exact same I just can't seem to get it into words.Cole is one amazing child and his family are awesome examples of God's love and compassion. I too am a PROUD C.O.L.E member! I can't imagine working on behalf of anything else, childhood cancer and the people/children it affects.God Bless, tina@colesfoundation.comC.O.L.E. (caring openly, loving eternally) Prayer Team www.colesfoundation.com
Tina Korpieski
Beautiful. Great job!
Shannon Sain
Beth, you said it all. Each time I read a journal entry I am inspired and grateful. I am inspired by the courage and faith of this family because they know the Lord is with them even when things are bad and not going their way. Just as Aaron has shown by creating the foundation and the prayer team out of an otherwise bad situation. Finally, I feel grateful to be part of such a wonderful ministry! I can answer the business phone calls at home, do my chores, and best of all, take a few minutes at my own leisure to make someone's day by just stopping by their page and leaving them an encouraging message and prayer. It is a blessing to be God's tool in this wonderful ministry.
Dena Hall
My life has also been changed by a chance meeting with Cole & his family. I met Cole on the very night that his symptoms eventually sent him to the hospital. He was trying to catch frogs in a pond with his dad, appearing to be a totally healthy, very normal, little adorable boy. Little did I know that in a short 8 weeks he would forever change the way I look at a day. His journey would touch thousands of lives that way thru the postings on Caring Bridge. I truly believe that his purpose was to bring his father Aaron into all of our lives! The words he posted were a daily lesson on living, when most would have only been able to concentrate on avoiding death. This family has reminded me to hug a little longer, to realize the little blessings & to appreciate every moment with my family & friends! I feel blessed to have met Cole and I am honored to be a part of the community his family calls home!
Nancy Zak
You took the words right out of my mouth! God Bless!
Emily Krook
god bless ya all lvies
kirsty
I want to thank Aaron and Moireen for letting me be a part of thier lives, sharing Cole with us until his journey, and then continuing on with something none of us would have ever imagine would grow so big and fast. It has changed my life, in more ways than one. Almost a million post on Coles website is just amazing. I think everyone that read his story just couldn't let go of that precious face and smile, and to have Aaron start this site and have it grow so fast, has to be God's plan. Thank you Beth you said it all for us, but just wanted to also thank Aaron for sharing also.
Mary Holton
God Bless you all...From Ironwood, Michigan
Lisa Ursini
It amazes me what God has revealed to all of you about Cole without you having ever met him! I just ran into this article by chance and found it to be such a sweet tribute to little Cole. I did have the pleasure of knowing him in his short life and he easily was one of the sweetest, most well behaved jewels a person could ever meet! He truly was a precious angel right from the start! May God continue to give Aaron and Moireen comfort and the strength to carry on his legacy!
Jane Somero
ONCE AGAIN BETH!!!I was just directed to this article and I am so glad that you wrote this Beth. Aaron and Moireen are so lucky to have someone with your talents on their team. You make videos and type articles, superwoman! You do a great job and I'm glad you are on our team. Thanks for all you do! I really appreciate your hard work and dedication! God bless.C.O.L.E Foundationwww.colesfoundation.com
Tina
I met you @ the Ironwood mission seminar with John Ruotsala & Dennis. I hugged you & Moireen & told you I knew Aaron's parents...not knowing you had lost Cole. I bought the book & just finished reading it & have felt so close to you & family for beautifully written saga of the life of dear Cole. I wept & rejoiced & praised God for the lives you have touched by recounting that one little precious life. Norma in Hancock, Mi.xx
norma nominelli
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