Never Fear Striking Out by Molly Laughlin

“Never Let the Fear of Striking Out Keep You from Playing the Game – Babe Ruth”
Written and delivered by Molly Laughlin at Christi's "Celebration of Life", Heidelberg College StudentPouring out the lemonade on the campus of Heidelberg College (September 2004)


Christi Thomas was never afraid to play the game of life. In fact, after she was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma, she was known to say, “I’m not sick, I just have cancer.” She was a very strong and courageous young girl who did not allow cancer to slow her down.

On Heidelberg's Campus at dance class (Fall 2005)Christi loved to dance. After she was diagnosed with cancer, she found that she had to miss many dance rehearsals due to doctors’ appointments and treatments however, whenever a recital came around she was always on stage, smiling. She was always nervous, but always did her best. She did not know al of the dances, but as she followed the other girls on stage, she always looked great. Christi did not let the fear of striking out keep her from playing the same.

Many believe that Christi was a true secant of the Lord, and after hearing these next two stories, I am sure that you will agree. Christi has the brightest light shining within her; it was brighter than any other human being I know. She was truly a follower of Christi.

When Christi had to spend time in the hospital, she was often found entertaining the other children that had cancer. She would read to them and play with them as if she did not have cancer at all. She wanted to make people smile and make people enjoy life, and that is exactly what she did.

At Christi’s last birthday party is where friends and family really realized what a true believer Christi really was. It was time for cake and ice cream. The girls were very excited. In my opinion, this could possibly be the best part of the party. All of the girls got their cake and immediately began to dig in. As friends and family stood back and watched, they looked over to Christi to find that she hadn’t yet begun to eat her cake. No, she had folded her hands and bowed her head for a moment of prayer and thanksgiving.


I am so glad that I chose Heidelberg College and I am blessed that I have been a part of the education department. Because of the Heidelberg Education Department, I was bright into the amazing life of Christi Thomas. She was, in one way or another, a part of each and every class.
Christi will continue to be a precious part of our classes. She is truly one of life’s blessings.
Reading to the 'Berg students on campus (September 2004)
I believe that if Christi could be here now that she would encourage us to live life to its absolutely fullest, and to never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.