About Me

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Bakersfield, CA, United States
Hans was a busy, happy, sweet and fearless three year old when he was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma. He fought his disease like a "gladiator" for nearly 6 years. Hans was an animal lover to his core. He was 'guarded' at home by his three cats, Black, Orange and Cotton. He also had his Golden Retriever, Honey, to keep him company. Hans enjoyed swimming, biking, gardening, grilling (he had his very own grill!), horseback riding, playing video games, building Legos, and flipping between Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network and Animal Planet. Hans loved all members of his family and he was a loyal friend. He had to go through a lot of treatment in his life. But Hans powered through it. His attitude was let's get this done! His motivation was always to get back home, to his family, pets, favorite foods and pool.

Friday, September 21, 2012

Hans Nisula Weberling 07-15-03 - 09-21-12


 Hans about 2 1/2 weeks before diagnosis in 10/2006


 Hans about a week ago snuggling with Elle 9/2012

This morning, at 8:29am our beautiful son Hans transformed into an angel, at home in the loving arms of his parents and his big sister.

 His little body put up a better fight than it ever should have had to, and now it is restored to perfect health and beauty. His blond afro is flying is the breeze. He is running wild and free.

 We can picture him, in Papa’s lap, with all of his other loving greats. He has already been given a comprehensive orientation by his pal Erin. He is now restored to full nine year old vigor and is surely playing soccer, kickball or four square with Sam. Soon, Ryan and Patrick will teach him how to play baseball. I know that he is being loved up by at least three or four ‘sisters’ in Chloe Belle, Carlie, Lily, and Serenity. He’s about to go on an ATV ride with Braeden.

 He lived a beautiful life. We couldn’t be more proud to be his loving family. We are blessed to bear witness to his strength, his spirit, and his unconditional love. Thank you for being a part of our special boy’s difficult journey. It was fraught with so many challenges, and yet charmed by so many miracles.

To our Catholic friends and family, I ask that you please say a (Sorrowful Mystery) Rosary for Hans today if you can. Thank you..

72 comments:

Anonymous said...

God bless his newest angel and to your family.

Love

Pat k

Anonymous said...

La, Kevin and Ellie -- we love you all so much! pl

Anonymous said...

Lara what you say is so beautiful and so true. Hans will always be well loved by many!
I love you all mightily,
Mom, G'ma Stephanie and Stephanie
OXOXOX
A Rosary is on the way!

Colleen (CCEC) said...

Beautifully said, and so so true. Claire said today, "Hansie is sitting on Papa's lap, now." Thanks for bringing a smile to us with the picture of Hans's "blonde afro". Thanks for giving us all the gift that was Hans. He has touched the loves of so many of us for eternity. Love to you all and saving up big hugs for when we can see you! XO

Anonymous said...

This is the saddest news and I am so sorry for your loss! Hans and the rest of your family have inspired people from all over the world with your strength and your outlook on life! He will always be in the heart of so many people and he will always be our hero. Sending lots of love and strength your way.

Sarah said...

I'm so sorry. Your family will be in my prayers.

rherbert said...

I am truly heart broken and at such a loss for anything meaningful to say. I have been so deeply touched by Hans' story as well as your unbelievable strength, hope, and optimism, Lara. I am so very sorry...and I will continue to pray for you all.

Anonymous said...

So sorry and so sad. What a beautiful and strong boy you had the joy of having in your life. My thoughts are with you all.

Anonymous said...

Oh, Lara, Kev & Elle - Sending up the hugest prayers for peace and grace to surround you and fill your lives in this difficult time. You ALWAYS did what seemed the best course for the little man and I'm so blessed to have known him (and you all) through your blog reports. I really am at a loss for words, just feel the love that little warrior inspired in so many people. Covering you all with prayer. Love, Wendi from the Burg

Anonymous said...

All my love, hugs and prayers. Our hearts are broken and I wish I could take away your pain !!! I find peace and comfort knowing Hans is in Papa's loving arms.
Auntie Shelly XOXOXO

Anonymous said...

I did not expect this post.
I just love you guys so much. I will say the rosary, and I'll keep praying for Hans and for you, my friends. My heart is broken.
So so so much love to you all. jana

Anonymous said...

Lara, Elle and Kevin - this is from Dean......
I am so sorry about Hansiie. Little Hansie was my god son and I loved him very much...I'm so glad he's with Papa and GramGram in Heaven. Love Uncle Dean

Anonymous said...

Dear child, sweet family...rest and know you are loved beyond words.

Love and hugs,
Aunt Susy

Anonymous said...

Coach and I love you all so much. We will remember Hans always. Elaine

Anonymous said...

Godspeed sweet boy. We were so lucky to meet you. We know Sam is showing you around the soccer field and the four square court.

Love the hutchisons

heather lund said...

I have been following your story for months now, inspired by the strength of your family and the tenacity of Hans. Today's post was unexpected and eloquently put. I must thank you for sharing your life, for sharing Hans with the world. Please accept my heartfelt condolences and prayers to for you and your family.

Blair said...

Oh Lara. I'm so, so sorry for your loss. We will pray for you all tonight. Hans was such a fighter and you have all showed us what it means to find positives even in the midst of such trials. We will think of your little saint whenever my little boys play that guitar! Love, prayers, and hugs from Texas. Thank you for sharing Hans' journey with us.

Kim Tyler said...

My dears, such sadness at this news. You have fought such a long, courageous battle, each one of you, and given Hans the best possible life, full of love and hope and encouragement every day in his short life. You taught him to be an angel, with your beautiful loving-kindness, and he will fly with the eternal knowledge that he was loved well and truly. Now I'm sending huge love to all of you, and sharing in your grief. Blessings, and my heart will be with you in the days/weeks ahead.

shari said...

Lara, Kevin and Elle- I am keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. I check in on your FB page and blog every day and was not expecting to see this post. I know that Hans was greeted in heaven by an amazing group of NB angels. Sending you all big hugs and kisses along with continued prayers... XOXOX Shari

Neil Hutchison said...

We are so sorry. Just sad and shocked. We huddled as a family and broke the news to Andy/Charlie and they are inconsolable. It was OUR honor to meet the incomparable Hans. He is beautiful. He is strong. And I do so hope that he is playing soccer with our Sammy and that they are laughing and smiling. God Speed Hans......

Neil & Margot

Anonymous said...

Lara, I am so sorry for your loss. Your family was and will continue to be in our prayers. Hans, to me has never lost that blond Afro, it was just hiding. We love you!
Tanja

Neen said...

I now look forward to knowing him the Eucharist. Thank you for always sharing your loving story. We all love a little harder because of your example.

Anonymous said...

Hans was such a special child and touched so many people with his courage and spirit for life. We were so honored to be his grandparents and will miss him greatly.
Thanks to all who have held him and his family close to their hearts.

Love G.Kathy & G.Dale

aerickson said...

The Warren Wildcat family is praying for your family through this time!!! I'm so sorry to hear this news. :( Elle, if you need anything, we're all here for you!

carole said...

So much love to your family. I've followed much of Hans' journey via Shelley and I am just broken-hearted for all of you. I just know he brought your family so many gifts and your lives are forever better for having him be your son and brother. May your sadness be tempered by sweet memories.

Anonymous said...

We have been deeply by touched by Hans strength and yours. You are all in our prayers. - Ann and all the Sovars

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry to hear this....what a strong and courageous little boy. Praying for strength and comfort for you and your family.
-Amy Janiszewski

Charon said...

Dear Lara, Kevin, and Elle,

We are so sorry for your loss. Our hearts go out to you and we are praying for your strength. I know you are all so proud of Hans!! He was strong and brave. I imagine he was very proud of you too. It takes just as much strength and bravery to guide these children through this terrible journey of cancer. But just as you stated, along with the challenges we are blessed with many miracles and acts of kindness not to be forgotten. I imagine Carlie wearing her pink cowgirl boots and hat giving Hans a big Texas welcome! I am always here for you if you need to talk.
Much love to you all, Charon, Mark and Anthony

The Nusbaums said...

Lara,
Your sweet angel has left a gift to so many. Your family has inspired so many to appreciate life and love. Your love for Hans created so many beautiful memories that he will forever cherish with his friends above. Wishing you, Kevin, and Elle much comfort.
Love,
Sarah

Anonymous said...

Dear Kevin, Lara & Elle,
Our hearts go out to you all. We are so so sad. Hans was Patrick's first NB buddy to meet at TCH. Hans does and always will hold a special place in all our hearts. I know Patrick is thrilled to play baseball with Hans! I can't imagine what fun all the little NB angels are having together in heaven. We will keep you all in our prayers. We are sending our love to you all.
Claire & Shaine ~ Mi Mi & Pops

Carmen said...

Michael and Ryan will never ever forget their dear friend Hans. They always thought he was so funny, and that he was. They loved him so much. We'll always cherish the sweet memories. Love you always Weberlings, Carm, Jim, Mike and Ry Smiley

Anonymous said...

We love you

--the Seldens

Shirley Zeosky said...

Lara, Kevin and Elle,
Words cannot express how sad we were to read this, also so unexpected for us being so far away and just relying on your blogs.
We always remember Hansie as the little boy at soccer with the big blue eyes and most amazing blonde curly hair.
You did everything within your power to try to get rid of the disease that took over his little body. Hansie, you were such a little trooper and the best lego-builder in the whole wide world:-) Now you can run around and do all the normal things a little 9 year-old should be doing.
Lara, Kevin, Elle and Hans, you are an inspiration to all of us.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Much love. Shirley, Joe, Daniel and Michael xxx

Anonymous said...

Praying; may you be surrounded by the love and support of family and friends as you begin your bereavement journey together.

Hans' indomitable spirit will remain in our thoughts and hearts, always.

Meanwhile, we continue the fight against Neuroblastoma in memory, in honor, and in defense of all…

God's peace,

The Bucher Family
(NB List)

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry for your loss. I have been rooting for Hans since I met him as an intern on TCH 9 in October 2006. Your family's optimism, perseverance, and love through this brutal NB journey are inspirational. I pray that you find comfort and peace at this tremendously hard time. When your hearts are ready, I can't wait to see the amazing things you will do with your energy and big hearts.

K said...

Dear Lara, Kevin, and Elle,

My prayers are with you all! Hans touched so many lives and changed my life forever when I ran the 5K in his honor at Bush.

My rosary will be offered for Hans today.

Hans, we will miss you always, but we rejoice in knowing you are playing at the feet of Jesus, perfectly healed!

Karen F.

The Alexander's said...

My heart breaks for you. Heaven rcv'd an amazing angel. Thoughts are with you.

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry for your loss. Fly free, sweet Hans, fly free!

Gwen Haag
Fairport, New York

Andy (Dad to Max) said...

Lara and the entire Weberling family,

There are no words that I can think of to bring you comfort at this time. It breaks my heart that Hans has left us. LEGOs will be built for some time in our household, in honor and memory of Hans! Please know that angel parents are never strangers to one another, and if you ever want to talk, we're here for you.

Lara, when Max passed away in 2008, you wrote us the following amazing note. Unfortunately, now its our turn to let you know that we're heartbroken, proud of everything you did, and praying for peace and comfort to rain down on your family.

I too am stunned and saddened at the loss of your beautiful boy. I am just heartbroken for all of you. As a family you took the very best care of Max.
Each of you are in my prayers
Lara W.


With much sorrow and love,
The Mikulak's
Andy, Melissa, Hannah, ^^Max^^, Nicky

Anonymous said...

Such beautiful words, Lara! Your strength and ability to verbalize your journey so eloquently are amazing! We will continue to think about and pray for you all.
much love,
Dodie

Anonymous said...

We are absolutely heartbroken by the news. Hans had such an amazing, long fight and now we know he fights no more and plays with Jesus on his team. Prayers surrounding your family from ours.

Hester Family,
Beau, Jessica and Brooke
www.BrookeFightsBack.org

Anonymous said...

I am soo very sorry for the loss of your precious, Hans.

I pray God will surround you with comfort and peace.

I will pray for your family.

WHEN TOMORROW STARTS WITHOUT ME
When tomorrow starts without me
And I am not there to see
If the sun should rise and find your eyes
All filled with tears for me
I wish so much you wouldn’t cry
The way you did today
While thinking of the many things
We didn’t get to say
I know how much you love me
As much as I love you
And each time that you think of me
I know you’ll miss me too
But when tomorrow starts without me
Please try to understand
That an angel came and called my name
And took me by the hand
And said my place was ready
In Heaven far above
And that I’d have to leave behind
All those I dearly love
But as I turned to walk away
A tear fell from my eye
For all my life I’d always thought
I did not want to die
I had so much to live for
So much yet to do
It seemed impossible
That I was leaving you
I thought of all the yesterdays
The good ones and the bad
I thought of all the love we shared
And all the fun we had
I bring with me our goodbyes
Your smile, your touch, your kiss
Your tender caring moments
Are the things I already miss
And when I thought of worldly things
I might miss come tomorrow
I thought of you and when I did
My heart was filled with sorrow
But when I walked through Heavens Gate
I felt so much at home
When God looked down and smiled at me
From His great golden throne
He said this is eternity
And all I’ve promised you
Today for life on earth is past
But here it starts anew
So when tomorrow starts without me
Don’t think we’re far apart
For every time you think of me-
I am right inside your heart.


C.O.L.E.'s Foundation
(Caring Openly, Loving Eternally
Sandy Daron

Anonymous said...

Our thoughts are with you guys. Love you all.

The Conlons

Anonymous said...

I will always remember running that first 5K for Hans all those years ago. And then I got to know Lara through the church mommies group and became friends. What a battle Hans and his family fought for many years to come. We will cherish the memories we have of little Hansie forever. He's finally free. All our love and prayers go out to you Lar, Kev and Elle. May you find comfort and little strengths in the weeks ahead on your next chapter of the journey. BIG love and hugs from Texas! Vicki, James, Jacob, Joey & Kira

Anonymous said...

I never met Hans, but just from reading about him, I could tell he was special. I am so sorry to read this news. Thinking of you all.

M.
Portland, OR

Karen Gookin said...

One very special Sorrowful Mystery coming up. God Bless all of you, and especially dear Hans. I am so sorry--

Titus 2 Thandi said...

Wishing you peace and strength in the years to come. What a precious child, what a pity we couldn't keep him with us. But I look forward to the resurrection when we will see him again..and those of us here in South Africa will meet him for the first time.Perfect peace... 1 Thess 4:16-18

Anonymous said...

Praying for you. I am so sorry.
Love to all
Alice

Jacqueline O'Connor said...

Lara, thank you for sharing Hans beautiful journey. We are praying for all of you. I am sure Kelly is with him holding him tight! You were so special to her. Big hugs and prayers from Texas.
Jackie O'Connor

Anonymous said...

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless.

C.O.L.E.'s Prayer Team
Caring Openly, Loving Eternally
www.colesfoundation.org

PA

Lisa said...

Lara, Kevin & Elle,
You continue to be loved. From my heart to each of yours, I send Love. The words and photos shared on the blog are beautiful. I wish there were words I could say to help. All I have is, "I love each of you."

Blessings to each of you.

Prayers were said for Hans and they will continue. Prayers, in their many forms, will be sent for each of you too.
Love,
Lisa

Robin said...

So very sorry. My thoughts are with you all during this difficult time.

Anonymous said...

I read the news last night. Had another sleepless, fear-filled night. So terribly sorry. Sending lots of love.
Maria Galletta

Anonymous said...

Our thoughts and prayers are with Hans and all of you. God Bless.

Mona, Ken, Grant, and Kae

Pat said...

This is such sad news. My heart breaks for you and your family. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Hans, fly with the other angels. You are free from pain now. Tell my Nicky I miss him very much. Pat Tallungan

Anonymous said...

I am sorry to hear of Hans's passing, I have been reading every word of your blog, cheering for your little love bug. It breaks my heart, it's unbearable. I had so much hope for him.
Sending lots of love to your family,
Clarence, Teddy's mom.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/teddybergergreer

bud elkins said...

Lara, your blogs have been a wonderful testimony to Hans' spirit. Hans and his battle will always stay with me. A favorite minister once said that death may sometimes be best understood as God's final healing. Prayers for you and your family.
Jehovah Shalom, bud

Anonymous said...

My heartfelt sympathies as you mourn sweet precious brave Hans. May God surround you with His comfort and grace in the days ahead.


Do NOT worry, God is never blind

to your tears, never deaf to your prayers,

and never silent to your pain.

He sees, He hears and He will deliver


"An infinite God can give all of Himself to each of His children, He does not distribute Himself that each may have a part, but to each one He gives all of Himself as fully as if there were no others" - A. W. Tozer

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ *GOD LOVES YOU* ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

In His Love,

Caterina
caterina@colesfoundation.org
C.O.L.E. (Caring Openly, Loving Eternally) Prayer Team
www.colesfoundation.com www.colespages.org
24/7 Prayer Line 888-365-COLE (2653)
www.kidsunitetofight.com

"There are many Americans who are clever and fearless, but the trouble is many are small children fighting an ugly disease."

Anonymous said...

I am so grateful to have met such a strong little boy and beautiful, loving family. I am certain that Chloe Belle welcomed him back home with open arms. Your continued support and unity as a family through all adversity has been a continued encouragement to me.
Elle- I know how much your brother looks up to you and loves you. Our siblings are now cancer free and living in unimaginable joy and peace. We just have to stay strong and patient, knowing that we will see them again soon! I feel my sister's presence EVERY single day and I pray that you will grow observant and confident in the fact that Hans will always be right by your side. I am here for you if you ever need anything. The whole Weberling family has a special, special place in my families hearts.

Love and prayers,

Chelsea Castillo

moodygrl78 said...

Though we never met, I feel as if I knew Hans from the blog. I started following Hans by way of Our angel Braeden. I hope they are muddin on ATVs and doing all the things little boys should do. I pray for Hans and strength for you all during your time of sorrow.

Anonymous said...

I feel Hans spirit reaching out saying its his turn now to protect you, Lara, Kev and Elle. You will see this in many ways in the coming months and years. If you have a moment to share these experiences with us we would love to hear them.I know your family will do great things in the future. You have already changed so many.

Anonymous said...

Thinking of your family at this time. Sarah C.O.L.E'S Prayer Team www.colesfoundation.org

The Burgharts said...

Kevin, Lara, and Ellie,

Hans' and your family's courage, fortitude and strength has been an inspiration for us. We have prayed for you and Hans for a long time, and God has blessed you and all of us with his example. Please know you will continue to be in our prayers. God bless you all.

Love,

Doug, Amy, Nolan, and Clay Burghart

Anonymous said...

RIP Hans!! What an amazing kid. My heart breaks for your family. I feel as though I know you all just from reading your blog. You all are an amazing family. Know you did all you could have done for this sweet little boy. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Texas will always remember Hans.

Anonymous said...

Lara,Kevin and Elle,
My heart broke all over again when I found out beautiful Hans had left this earth. The only thing I know for certain is that he was lifted into the arms of our Lord and restored into perfect health, no more cancer ever again. I can only imagine that my sweet Chloe Belle,Carlie, Patrick and so many other amazing kids met Hans with lots of Love and Hugs. Lara you are the most amazing mother and I know that Hans was grateful for that blessing! We love The Weberling family and will never ever forget your boy, Hans! We will miss you Hans but look forward to the day when we meet again.
Love and Blessings, The Castillo Family

Anonymous said...

Lara, Kevin and Elle,
Our hearts break for you - Hans will be so greatly missed yet always remembered for his strength and bravery. You are an amazing family and you always did the right things for Hans. He knows love and courage because that is what your family is all about. Thank you for sharing Hans with so many. We pray that your family feels the love and prayers that are surrounding you.
Love, Mike, Lisa and Michaela Csikos

Anonymous said...

Lara, Kevin and Elle,
I feel the hurt for you just as i did the day my precious Blaine entered the Heavenly realm. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you go through the coming days and weeks. Elle, your strenght and courage showed how much you love Hans.
Kathy German (Blaine Brandon)

Anonymous said...

Dear Weberlings: We are devastated at the absence, in your lives, of this wonderful, wonderful boy. He was so incredibly fortunate to have had all of you in his corner, these past several years, and we were all so incredibly fortunate that you included us, by letting us get to know Hans (through your posts), and giving us the privilege of praying and rooting for him.

We will pray for all of you now as you face the time between today and that day, whenever it will be, when you will once again all be together with incredible, wonderful, incomparable Hans!

NW Hans Fan

Anonymous said...

He inspired so many people, may you find peace in knowing that he is an angel and watching over you.
Marié Hattingh South Africa

Laura W. said...

Lara,
We learned about Hans becoming an angel during Kayce's volleyball tournament this past weekend. Several of the girls knew Elle and your family either through Girl Scouts or school. They shared stories, cried and prayed for your family. You have all fought this battle with unbelievable strength and dignity. I hope you feel the strength that your "gladiator" angel is sending down to his family. You are in our prayers.
Laura Wright & Family

Anonymous said...

I believe that the soul of a child chooses the family to be born in to. Hans chose you all to help and guide him through his earthly journey and to love and care for him fiercely and completely.

I am praying for peace and comfort for your family and blessings for God's newest angel. Love from Houston - Jennie Shamburger

Brooke Robertshaw said...

I've been reading Hans's story for awhile now. I think before the Amazing Erin died. I've never said anything, but I wanted you to know that this stranger cares about you, and Hans. I'm not Catholic, I'm Episcopalian. I've been saying the Nicene Creed and Psalm 23 for you, Hans, and all who loved, cared, and liked him.

God be with you during this difficult time, and the difficult times to come.