I like our home and Mr. grysb is nice love Patrick hopkins

I worked a couple nights and days on the Grys new house. It was great that I can give something back to a great family that has givin so much for what they have done. I worked in the house and on Tuesday I work with and and a team of member to get a gob done. we worked on the last day till 4:30 in the morning and I was not on the list to come back and help but the project was long from being completed. so I asked ED if he needed the help and he asked if I wanted to come bace 3 hours later to be there at 7:30am. So I did and we finaly got the project completed and in the house at 5:00pm to close to call with the Grys family comming home any time. It felt great working with a great team and I hope I get to do it agian sometime. Well I hope I did my job and I know everyone did theres hope you love you new house Grys Family.

My husband and I knew Jeanie's mom . Really good people.

I was one of the PM's on this wonderfull build for the Gry's family. I want to thank all the wonderfull, talented hands that would not quit until it was done. I have never worked with such a good group in my life. We all need to get together and do this again just to help another family. Yes we were all tired but admit it we had FUN. This is something I will always remember for the rest of my life. Congratulations to the Gry's there is alot of warm hearts that built you your home, but it will take your warm hearts to make it HOME.

Hello,
I am one of your neighbors. I have heard fantastic things about the family and would like to congratulate you on a well deserved experience.

To Jake:

You are a very special boy and DO HAVE magical powers - you woke-up a community!! :)

Mom & Dad:

I would love to meet you in person some day. I was there at the site Tuesday volunteering my time doing Security with the awesome Security Team that is Extreme Security Services. They travel around with the show. I also donated money and received a t-shirt to get autographs of the Security Officers.

PEKIN DOES SUPPORT ALL OF YOU!!

While many people have congratulated the Grys family (myself included in an earlier post), I want to congratulate everyone else who made this happen. Without the volunteers, people who donated money and food, ABC, the spectators and just the Heart of Illinois this never would have gotten off the ground. We all watch and see that a house can go up in seven days in tvland but to see it with your own eyes is breathtaking. What a blessing it is to have the opportunity to give back and love when so many of us often forget.

And for those of you who have anything negative to say I hope that you can forget about your own troubles for a day and donate your time at a soup kitchen or a local shelter. Or go through your closet and donate some of your old clothes.

You wonder why our country is suffering? It is because we have lost sight of what it truly means to be a neighbor. So I challenge everyone. The next time you have some time on your hands go out and help someone else. If we all did our part, even just a little one, imagine how much better the world would be.

Come on Central Illinois lets show the rest of the world that we are really great people by thinking less of ourselves and more for our others. Only when you give of yourself can you find true happiness!

I HELPED ON THE GRYS HOUSE. I MET JAKE @ STEVE A FEW YRS AGO AT THE MARAGLOD FESTIVE IN PEKIN. I WENT TO UP TO JAKE AND ASK HIM HOW HE WAS DOING , HE SAID HE WASNT DOING TO GOOD . THATS WHEN HE TOLD ME THAT HE NEEDED A NEW HOUSE . I THOUGHT HE WAS JUST JOKING . STEVE SAID HE WASNT JOKING AROUND ! I WAS VERY HAPPY FOR THE GRYS FAMILY ....... I HOPE YOU GUYS LIKE YOUR NEW HOUSE !!

hi grys family: you brightened my life, you are all
i can talk about , I love the fact i was able to help
on a cold rainy night I was in a warm tent giving out
hard hats and t shirts while others went to the site
to help, I also bought a t shirt with jakes photo on
it, ive been praying for your whole family and look
forward to seeing the show, Im soooo happy for each
and everyone of you. im so glad their are good foster
parents out there. god bless you love you always. im
wearing the extreme makeover shirt tommarrow on halloween to work im dressing as a extreme makeover
volunteer, take care now love rose

Amen Amber!!! My husband and I were part of the team of volunteers! Just to watch everyone in the house running around like little ants cleaning every nook and cranny, decorating, carrying in furniture, painting, building, pounding nails, tiling, building a ramp, pouring concrete, roofing, hanging curtains and pictures, cleaning toilets, scrubbing floors,being an all around gopher and when that was done they waited for more work, not to mention those that donated thousands of dollars worth of food, supplies, equipment and furniture. If that doesn't put a smile on your face and tears in your eyes you need to step back and examine yourself.
What encouragement there is in knowing that there are still people who are not self centered but truly care about others, is amazing! I salute each of you and pray that God blesses you all abundantly!!!

For the other people that are negative/jealous about this house, shame on you!!! Why would anyone want to deny someone (let alone an 8yr old boy) a sense of freedom and independence? We live in America, the home of the free. So imagine yourself imprisoned in your own home and not being able to do anything for yourself, having someone else always taking you to the bathroom, putting you into bed, brushing your teeth and the lists goes on, well that was how Jake felt. Everything was too tall and he could fall and break a bone or not accessible. Now that feeling of helplessness is GONE!!! He can finally live freely in his own home, and thats all due to so many people that put their hearts and souls into making it possible!Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Jake...you are an inspiration to me and my family and we love you!!!
P.S. Josh still calls you his best buddy from Kindergarten!!

I am so excited for your family and thrilled that you got a new home. I have special needs son who is 19, and have had to place him in a group home for awhile until our home is ready for him. I know the struggle, thrills, and love that a parent feels when in you shoes. You deserve this and I am so thankful others saw it....Gen Thompson and family

First I want to thank the Extreme Makeover Team, ABC, Sears and everyone else who donated and took time out of their busy schedules to give to this project and family. I personally put in several days and nights of painting and enjoyed working with everyone envolved with this makeover. I personally did not know the Grys family but did have an opportunity to see Jake last summer when my daughter was in the Park District Swim classes with Jake. This little boy was always smiling and never let on to having any kind of disability. My daughter got to share the "MOVE THAT BUS" experience with me as we stood outside the house and she truly had a big smile as she stood there waving at Jake and his family. I said to her that she will always remember this day and how happy everyone made this little boy and his family. She gave me a hug and said, daddy, you just made Jake's day and someday I would love to meet Jake, hes so cute. Jake, I hope you will enjoy your new room! Take care and God Bless you.

Yours truly,

JSD

Yours truly,

JSD

For The Gry's Family-

I have a hard time keeping up with the news-so when I heard that Extreme Makeover was in town-I was shocked-I had no idea until the VERY last minute!! I live here in Pekin at the other end of 14th st., past the park. I got in my van & drove straight to your house. I got to watch you all leave for Dinsey World-I watched the demolition, the build & I was there when you all came home. I took pictures EVERY day. One day I was standing in the crawd making small talk with a middle aged couple-I told this gentleman that I came every day to take pictures & do you know what he said to me, "That tells me that you have NO LIFE!" I thought to myself, "How rude!!" I could've stopped then & went home, but I continued on taking my pictures every day like I set out to do in the beginning of it all. I wasn't in the crawd for the media atttention-I was there in support of an outstanding family within our community!! To the gentleman who told me that I had no life-YOU HAVE NO HEART & by the way-what were you doing in the crawd right along side me-DUH & RIGHT BACK AT YA BUDDY!! For all of you haters in Pekin who are complaining-this family actually deserved this!! This meant everything to them-couldn't you tell that by the look on the children's faces? Why try and take from that? I've been hearing a lot of negitive talk and I can't believe my ears. To those of you who did donate & volunteer & all of those connected to Extreme Makeover-pat yourselves on the back & realize that the good you do will come back to you in some form or another. GOD BLESS the ones who believed and HOW DARE the ones who didn't!! CONGRATS TO THE GRY'S FAMILY-OUR COMMUNITY IS BETTER WITH PEOPLE LIKE YOU IN IT!!! Much love!! Consider yourselves adored by a complete stranger!!

A quote for everyone who had a hand in the blessing this family was given:

"DO NOT THINK THAT CONCERNED PEOPLE CANNOT CHANGE THE WORLD, IT'S THE ONLY THING THAT EVER HAS!!!

p.s If anyone has an e-mail address for the family, please contact me at amber_jtc@hotmail.com-I'd love to share my pictures with them!!

Jake, Zac, & Family, I am SOOO happy for you all!!! All of us on the Media team were so happy when Zac told us you were the lucky family to get chosen! Ive had the pleasure of meeting Jake and he is a beautful little boy and Zac is a great guy, so I can only imagine how awesome the rest of the family is. You all deserve this and congrats to you all!! With love, Cherie & BBY Media Team

Hi there - I was one of the people who were picked to come in and do some of the painting in the house and just wanted to thank you for the chance of a lifetime!!! You have done so much for all the kids you have helped and then helped your whole community come together!! It is an AMAZING house!!! And, I dont want to give anything away but wait til u see the show and see a Giant Chicken in your AVIARY!!!!! Once again, thank you for the chance at a lifetime and tell Becca her room ROX!!!!!! I work for 2 of the organizations in the area working with DD/MR/MI and if u ever need help with anything, I would love to help you like you have helped so many others! Enjoy that BIG BEAUTIFUL HOME!!!!!! oh yeah and JAKE - i love your door!!!!!

What a great experience this past week has been for me. As one of the project managers for the Design Build team, to see all the trades working together to make this dream for this family come true was truly awesome. The 106 hours for the construction time frame, seemed to many of us as imposible at first, became a reality with all the hard effort of team work by all the building trades that were involved and the many volunteers. I personally want to say THANK YOU !!!! Enjoy your new home Grys Family!!!!

Congratulations to the Grys family. All the volunteers did an awesome job and the last count for donations was $90,000!! Way to go Pekin!

One of the previous posters mentioned donating life savings for a date with Ty Pennington. Maybe that could be a good fundraiser idea...I'd buy!

I will personally donate my life savings to meet the goal extreme makeover had for the Gry's family on one condition. A date with Ty Pennington.

How exciting that my favorite show is here in Central Illinois helping such a well deserved family! This is the next best thing to winning the lottery for you! I hope to be able to meet your whole family someday. You sound like an awesome group. Keep up the good work and positive attitudes. Congratulations Grys family!!!!

To the Grys family congrats and good luck with your new home. May God bless you all for all you have done. A big thank you goes out to all those who gave of their time and money to make this happen for such a deserving family. It was an awesome sight to see so many people work so well together.

We talked with the directors, and they predict the airing date to be January 11th, 2009, but it has not been confirmed with ABC yet.

I spent time everyday at the site and would like to thank ABC and all the volunteers for making this house as good as possible for Jake and his family.
THANKS!

They do worry about light bills and taxes. They have had cilco freeze the rates for 4 years at the previous homes rates and the property taxes have been frozen for 5 years and they go by neigborhood homes too when they do property taxes... Maybe you should do your research and try not to burst this giving families bubbles.

I am so happy for you guys. You will love your new home. It is a dream come true and it couldn't have happened to a nicer family.

I am sure you had fun in Disneyland.....dreams come true there.....and here too.

peace,
lisa

Congratulations on being chosen. Enjoy your new home! So glad to see good things happening to good people back in my hometown. May God bless all of you and your new home.

We were all so excited to hear about this good news! We wanted to stop by and send our congratulations!

Love from Lora-Ly, Shirley, Sean, & Sereia(with OI) from the OI_Parents group. :)

I want to take this time to thank Ty Pennington and his crew for all of their time and hard work. I also want to thank Home Design Builders and as well as all of the Illinois volunteers that worked very hard for the last seven days battling through the cool and rainy weather. All of you did a fabulous job and I commend you all.

To the Grys Family,
I want to congratulate you on your new house and I hope you had a wonderful vacation in Florida.
I help take care of a 21 year old male who has muscular dystrophy and who has to get around in a wheelchair. So I know what all is involved in taking care of a person with special needs.

Again congratulations to Jake and The Gry's Family!

Angela Bielicke Peoria, Il

We are so happy for you. Thank you for all the love you share with each other and the community. It is people like you that make the world a better place.

God Bless you and your family!

When does the show air? Can't wait to see it!

Grys family,
Thanks for giving our community the chance to be a part of building your new home. I volunteered with Fritch Heating & Cooling and had a blast. Your new system is "extremely" efficient & has an indoor air quality system to keep your family healthy. Your utilities should not go up, although your square footage did!!!

I am so happy for you all, I was a foster child and have stay in contact for over twenty years. Thanks for showning others love when you didn't have to!!!

I just wanted to say how happy I am for you.

Congratulations on your new home. I was blessed to have been chosen as a volunteer to work on this beautiful home. What you have done for all your foster children over the years is such a gift to them and now this gift has been given to you. You deserve it. Good luck! Enjoy your new beautiful home that will give you and your children peace of mind. Congratulations! God Bless.

Congrats to all of the family on a well deserved gift! Prayers do get answered as long as you have patience. That my dear lady you do have. God bless you & all of your family and enjoy your new home!
Kathy & kids

I hope you will be able to pay the new higher taxes you will have and the new higher light and heating costs. Not sure when they dont bulid with these items in mind. I am very happy for you dont get me wrong but with 4 times the more home comes higher bills if struggling before will be now for sure. Good luck and congrats!

Your story is an inspirational story of love. You have blessed so many people with your heartfelt outreach to give! Thank you for giving without asking to be noticed and just because you have love in your hearts to give away! You are being blessed now and the spot light is yours! I just wanted to give without notice cause I'm too old to help build a house so I drove by the corner of Willow and 14th and handed a donation to one of the workers with hard hats and drove away! It fealt so good to be able to feel that love from my heart and give it away, I cried all the way home and thanked God for people like you !I don't want any recognition I just wanted to say I love you for loving so many children that just needed love!

I hope your trip was good! God has truly touched your lives. CHERISH EVERY DAY. My 15 yr old lost his 49 yr old dad to pancreatic cancer this May, so enjoy EVERY day! Gives hugs, laugh often because life is precious and he sure did bless you with the opportunity of a lifetime! Congratulations and remember, God all made us for a reason for I was born with cerebral palsy and he blessed me with the opportunity of meeting my x-husband and having the best 15yr old son in the world! I'll be looking for your episode to air on TV Enjoy your lives in your wonderful new home God bless jen scarbrough

Congratulations! Your family deserved this and much more! Enjoy your beautiful new home. I was lucky to be chosen as a volunteer a couple times and am really glad I could help. You are an amazing family. Jake keep smiling and enjoy your independence.

I don't know you but I am a fellow Pekinite I live off of south fourteenth 2 streets back from Derby on Loretta. We have come over a few times just to watch the builders working on your house. It sounds like it will be wonderful and provide Jake with so much independence! Congratulations again and looks like Pekin will be on the map showing the heart of Illinois. Enjoy your new home and know that all your neighbors in Pekin Congratulate you!

Good Job Limestone High! I know how you guys care for the Grys And Easter Seals! Raise More And More Every year! This Family Deserves This Fantastic Home! I will be there in the morning and waiting all day for the family comes home! This Is Very Well Worth It! Congrats And Enjoy The Home Grys!

I'm SOOOO happy a family that is well deserved lives so close to me! How exciting of a time it is for you all! This new home will be be so much more accessible for Jake and you kids. My son is the General Manager at the Bloomington Denny's Restaurant and I talked to woman from Clinton, Ill. as I was having coffee. Her mom's sister is Jake's nurse. I just feel so honored to even see this heartwarming story and know a family with a lot of heart and love live so close! Hope you all had a truly relaxing vacation in Orlando and the weather cooperated. It rained here the first two days or so of construction and we all were praying. TYPICALY ILLINOIS, HUH?!?!?! LOL!!!!
God Bless You All!!!!
Hugs,
Annie

CONGRADULATIONS GRYS FAMILLY!! You may not remember us but we meet you guys at ST.jJude. Bradley Wallin Was my brother. We loved to play with jake while we were at st.jude. What A Great Family To Be Choosen To Get A New Home.

Brooke Wallin.

WOW!! Your prayers have been answered. We met Jake for the first time at Easter Seals when one of our foster sons was receving therapy there. Jake your smile is electrafying and one no one can forget. Jeannie you and your family have done so much for the children of this area. I have done respite for you when you took Jake to St Jude. I can't think of a more deserving family.
"God is Good all the time, all the time God is Good."

God Bless You!
Keith, Theresa and all our little ones

Your family is a true inspiration!! I have two disabled children myself and I know how hard things can be. However, this gift of INDEPENDENCE will truly be the best gift anyone will ever give your family. I truly Thank-You for your inspiration of hope to the rest of the families with children of disabilities this gives us hope. YOU TRULY ARE AMAZING!! I did volunteer and helped with this wonderful project. So thank-you Grys family for allowing my family to share this gift with you.

Congrats on your new home. No one is more deserving. If you need anything, after you get over the shock,please let me know. You know how to reach me.
Once again...congrats!!

GOD IS GOOD!!! WITH HIM ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!!!!

CONGRATS GRYS FAMILY!!!!!!!

THE BANNISTER'S (SHEILA, CRAIG, STEPHANIE AND MILES)

The Leeper family would like to congratulate the Grys family on their new home.Coach Grys has been a great coach for all the athletes in special olympics.Jake is really a great kid and they really deserve this home.

Jake- You helped me understand that anything is possible if we just believe. Even though your bones break easily- you are the "strongest" boy I have ever met. Jeannie- I have sooooo enjoyed the journey- now what are we going to do with all our time?????Ha Ha. This experience has made me a better person, and I thank all of you for that. I miss you and can not wait to see Jake be the independent person he has always had the right to be...
Love,

Angie (Jake's occupational therapist)

we feel for you i hope you family like the house and god bless you all my daughter has a handcap see can not read and write. judy wilson and julie morgan

Congrats on your beautiful new home we are sure it will great for Jake. It's well deserved!
The Wolf Family

Couldn't happen to a more deserving family! We are thrilled for you and can't wait to see the show!
God Bless,
The Sondag Merlyn, Tina Christa & John

Congratulations on getting a dream come true. I was a foster parent for many years, in the Central Illinois area. This is a true blessing for your family. ~Horray~ for all the volunteers helping out.

Steve & Jeannie in all the years that you gave so much love to the shrumm children when we would take them to their ball games you both gave so much of yourselfs and fostering all the children you deserve every bit of this and I'm so happy that I was asked to drive the bus to bring all the workers in and the bus when you was both at shrumm school good luck in your new home Jake was right TY did come and get him a new house I have been there every day this event was so awsome enjoy and god Bless you all !!

I was shocked to hear about this wounderful gift coming to pekin. But when I found out which family was on the recieving end I jumped for joy!...I have watched majority of the days since of the fun began. I cannot wait until tueseday when you all come home and see what everyone here has pitched in to help. The volunteers, builders and so on are only do half of what your family have done for children and others all over. Grys family congrats to ALL of you....look forward to seeing you tuesday
love always

Congrats! Your Home Is Amazing, You Guys Deserve This! I went to Limestone and I remember Jake, Easter Seals is one of my favorite charitys! Also, To The Parents You Guys Are Doing A Great Thing By Fostering All Those Kids For over 25 years! Enjoy The New Home Grys Family! Once Again Congrats.

OMG! We are so happy for you guys. Kayla says hi and we love you! Let us know when you are back, we would love to come visit. Kayla still talks about little Jake.

Hey girls!!!

Congratulations on the home!!! I signed up to volunteer but I wasn't picked. =[ I miss seeing you girls in class! Enjoy your new home, you guys deserve it!!!

God Bless!
Miss Kasey from Mrs. Peterson's room!

This makes my heart happy to see this happening for such special people. Hope their will be many happy memories in this new home!

I am so happy for the Grys family. The family deserves this for all the kids they have help out over the years. I'm glad Jake's dream is coming true and hope this will make life a littler easier for him.

Congratulations on your new home! You deserve it!

Grys Family...

Thanks for sharing your loving ways with all of Central Illinois and especially those of us at Limestone Community High School. The lessons you've taught us by example will have long lasting impact and I'm happy that your family has been blessed with this gift!

I was so excited it brought tears to my eyes to know that they chose such a deserving family for the makeover! You guys are the most compassionate caring people I know and they couldn't have given it to any greater people! Enjoy the new home! Now Steve,you do know I still have some carpentry work at my home for you now! God bless and enjoy!!!

Congratulations on your wonderful new home!!! Its been amazing to watch rhe proccess of this happening. I hope it brings you many yeats of happyness. best wishes and god bless
Lori

Congrats on your new home! I grew up in Pekin and this could not have happened to a better family in a better community!! Enjoy your new home Jake!!!!

God bless your family and we are all so happy for you guys. Enjoy your new home. We are pullin through on donations! Good luck!

We watch the show every week and never dreamed we would actually get to see one of the homes. How exciting you must be!! We happened to be in Pekin Friday night and we are so glad we were. We are so anxious to see all of this unfold on T.V. and to see your reactions when you see your beautiful new home. From what we have read, you are sooooooooo deserving of this. Our nephew helped install the pool for Jake. Good luck to all of you!!
Jim and Elaine Singleton...........Loves Park, IL.

Grys Family,

We are just so happy for you and can't wait to see your new home!!!! Jake, we are just thrilled that your 2 big wishes have come true now!!!!!! You are a very special boy with a very special family!!! Lots of love....

We are sooooo happy for you! Jake and my son have played together at St.Jude's and we love Jake so much. He is such an awesome little boy and he deserves for his life to be easier! To you, Jake's family, we appreciate all that you do and we hope that you have a great life from here on out! It is so wonderful that this has happened for you!!!

Congrats Grys Family!! We have been waiting and waiting patiently for the last year or so in hopes all of our votes would finally payoff to the Extreme Home Makeover!!! an "EXTREME" blessing from our family to yours.

God Bless-

The Grube Family
Mike, Kristen & Kaylee

Congratulations Grys Family. We are so happy for you!
You are a very deserving family! Thanks for helping all the kids over the years that have needed you.

I am thrilled to see this happening for your family. I'm sure you will have fun reviewing all the video and enjoying hundreds of pictures when you return. This is such a miracle, seeing the house built in a matter of days. Your family deserves this. I hope you enjoy your new home. I know this will make Jake's life easier, and that's what it's all about. God bless your family.

Such a deserving family, such a beautiful little boy!! Congrats to you on your new home!! Enjoy Disneyworld!! And to the volunteers, keep up the good work!!! What a wonderful story amongst all the sad, and in our little piece of Illinois!!

Enjoy your new home with your family Coach!

I was there Tuesday afternoon watching the crew trying to get your house to come down. As I was watching and talking to people around me, I come to know your family. It is a wonderful thing you have done for your foster children. You all deserve this NEW HOME.

I'm so very happy for you and your family. I didn't realize how giving you have been over the years but it sounds like you are very deserving of this special gift. You have already left a wonderful legacy and our little community is very proud of you for all you have done and continue to do. Enjoy each and every day of this wonderful gift. It has certainly brought out the best in a lot of people and inspired many more. May God continue to bless you and yours. ongratulations!!

Steve, Jean and kids...
We are so very thankful that you are the recipients of this wonderful gift, for there is none more deserving. I am humbled to have been chosen as a volunteer, and I will put my heart and soul into my hours at the build site. I've been there every day, taking pictures and watching as your wonderful dream comes true. EMHE, all the giving companies involved and all the volunteers have been working so very hard; it's like a big family at the build site. All of us who have a hand in this are happy to build this house for you, for we know you'll give it what it needs to be a home....love.
God's Blessings,
Thom, Penny, Zach, Megan, Ben, Jessi, Sam, Jake, Pickle (Willow studen), and our grandkids - Karter, Trent and Maliki

No better way to be paid back for all the wonderful things you have done for the community. From what I have heard from many, it couldn't have happened to a nicer family.
God Bless all of you,
Kristi Curto

we are so happy for jake and his wonderful family.enjoy your new home,you all deserve it!!

Congradulations on your new home.

Me and my family wanted to wish you good luck on starting so many new wonderful memories in your new home. Best Wishes to your family.

Congratulations on your new home. After contributing so much to so many for so many years, you truly deserve this wonderful blessing.

I have lived in Pekin all of my life and my best friend in junior high used to live in the house that was just torn down. As much as I hated to see the house go, I am even more excited about the new house that is coming! I think it is a wonderful thing that is being done and that it is being done for such a deserving family. I have a nephew with cerebral palsy and he uses a warm-water therapy pool at his school. When I heard Jacob will have one is his own room I was overjoyed! I know what it has done for my nephew and I can only imagine how much Jacob will enjoy it. Congratulations and God Bless the Grys family!

Congrats! and Best wishes in your new home

I had the honor of being a volunteer yesterday as well as making a donation. I too do not know this family personally but it was so awesome seeing everyone working together for this deserving family!
Does anyone have a personal webspace or myspace etc that they are posting updated pictures on?

Congrats to th the Grys' family on a long overdue new home for Jake. I know it will be spectacular and will make his life so much easier.

I don't know you but wanted to say congratulations! This is such an awesome thing. Even though I am not a part of the build I'm so happy to be able to donate. Enjoy your new home and God Bless you all!

Just droppin a line to say hello and congrats to you, I'm so glad that they picked you and your family. I'm sure the house will be beautiful.

This is so special for this family- who,as long as I can remember I saw taking up a pew in church with all of their beautiful children....gorgeous little girls, ADORABLE little jake... I have always admired and adored this family- I'l never forget Josh Grys sticking up for me while we were detassling together some 6-7 odd years ago haha... I looked at him as an older brother in middle school and have always adored his family... what amazing people who have done AMAZING things-- my prayers are with all of you... I hope God continues to bless you for all you have done for so many children.... I couldnt think of anyone else in my opinion who deserves this more... CONGRATS AND ENJOY!!!!!!!!!!!! I look foward to many more "peace be with you's" at church with such amazing people who TRULY epitomize what it means to be a Catholic!!!!

Our family is so thrilled for the Gyrs's. What an amazing gift for a family that has been such a blessing to so many people. The positive impact you have made in the lives of the hundreds of children you have loved and cared for is truly inspiring. I hope that the people in our community will always remember not only the day that Extreme Makeover came to our town, but espcially the love and compassion shown by this family which is what brought it here. Thanks for being an example to your city. It warms my heart to see how people have come together to make this happen. (Thank you to all the volunteers and your hard work out there in the rain and cold.) God bless your family, girls and little Jake...enjoy your EXTREME home, you deserve all of it!!

My family would like to say congrats on your new home!! We are so happy for you!!!

Hello and thank-you to everyone who has helped to make this dream a reality! I am one of Jake's cousins, and it really melts my heart to see this little community pitch in to make Jake's dreams and hopes a reality. To everyone sending prayers and thoughts, you aren't forgotten either!

How exciting for you to be getting a wonderful gift like this! Enjoy your new house.

We just wanted to take the time to tell you thanks for all your family has done and we were happy to help with gathering donations for your morgage and medical bills. Our Church youth group wanted to have a work and witness opportunity that was close and personal and your family made it possible to allow us to help you. This was a GREAT opportunity for us to get involved with a very deserving family for a great cause.
God bless you all, Craig and Rachelle McCoy

I think this is wonderful, I don't know the family just what I have seen on TV..I think its wonderful you have have opened your home to so many children they are very lucky..I also am very lucky because I get a chance to to help on Saturday to make things better for Jake what a wonderful little guy...This show really shows you what our world is about, strangers coming together to help someone they have only meet on through the TV.. Thank you again

Wow u are very lucky to have the extreme makeover crew building your house! i hope that everything goes well when they get it done and u love the house. i just wish u the best of luck with everything that is going on and hope that u have a wonderful time in the new house they are building! but good luck on the future

I am so happy for you both and your family to get the house that you really deserve plus the happiness for you jake for all your dreams to now come true. Jake you are very lucky to have such wonderful loving parents. You also have a community that loves you and your family very dearly and we all support you. God bless you and your family. Hope you all had a great time in Disneyworld. Hope to see you on Tuesday too when you and family arrive home. Moooove thaaat BUS. Hopefully a sunshine beautiful day on Tuesday.

Congrats! I once worked with Grandma Mary what a wonderful lady she is. I know she's thrilled for all of you. I think its awesome and I hope it is all Jake has dreamed of.It is amazing and fun watching all the progress. Good luck to all of you. Hi Mary.
Penny and family

I love the show and cry every time I watch it, But to see the town of Pekin and other area's comming together is so much more then a tear jerker. It really brings tears to mine and many people's eyes to see this comming together. Jacob you and your family deserve this and more. God bless and I am so happy for you all. Illinois I say you have got heart!!!

Congratulations Grys Family! You deserve it! Enjoy and God Bless!

Grys family how wonderful for you to get this. Im one of the many volunteers working on your new home and I couldnt be more honored. Have a fun vacation and as hard as it will be relax and leave the work to us. Jake you have many surprises coming.

congradulations Grys family, I live in Pekin on Matilda and had the opportunity to help by helping feed the workers one night. I am truly happy for all of you that you are being blessed with this new home
Thank you for letting our community be a part of this wonderful event in your lives.

id just like to say this has been a good experience for pekin illinois and mainly for your family.. so i cant wait to see the final results..so talk to you guys later!!!

Congratulations! We are so happy for you all! It's awesome to see how God moves in the lives of his children. We wish you all the very best.
May God continue to bless you all through the coming years.
Tom and Jerri Hyde
Washburn, Illinois

Jake I very glad God is blessing you and you're family like this. I know that Jesus loves each and every one of you. Having this house really shows that all these people love you too. I know your going to love the house. Have fun at disneyland too. I used to have fun there, and at other amusement parks too.

Congratulations to a very deserving family! I hope you had a great time at Disney World and all your dreams come true!

I have lived in pekin for over 35 years and remember when the Grey house was built. It is such a waste since that house could have been sold for at least $100,000 or more,,, that money could have been used to buy a lot and build a house that wouldn't overpower the neighborhood in price,,, that house will never bring the money it will be worth if it is ever sold.
this is something you might want to think about in the future
It is a shame to tear completely good house down and put all the waste in are landfills
I am however very happy for the Grey family, they are so deserving of this . They have been very selfless in taking in all these children over the years and seem such loving , people
God watches over people like that
Good Luck Gray's family and God Bless You All

Congrates on your new home

god bless you all and good luck in your new home!!!

i now four of the grys and the r good people and i heard a lots of good stuff aboute Them ,and me and one of the twins are realy good friends and i meat the boy jacob and he is so sweet and puts a smile on my face.

Dear Jake im so happy for your family! I think your gonna love your new house.Hope your having fun in Disney world! Cant wait until your back at school, i miss you! love, Kami

It sounds like you are a terrific family and have done alot of things for so many people. I am happy for you and wish you only the best. I was just wondering,the picture of your house in the Peoria Journal Star, looks like a nice house, could it have been renovated to adapt to your special needs child? Have fun at Disneyland!

im so happy for the grys family, they needed some thing like this done for them!My oldes is in h is class and she likes being in his class and my husband and i think he is a great guy!

hey jake and family this is a blessing that ALL of you deserve can't wait to volunteer on this project saturday. when i finally found out is was your family
I really got excited.

I am another person that you don't know but grew up in Manito IL and have a very mild form of OI. I know what it has taken me to overcome the challenges in life that OI has brought I admire you and your family for keeping a positive spirit. Keep that attitude in every challenge you take on and only the best will continue to come your way. Congrats on the new house and good luck in all you do.

Anyone who is wanting to email the family comments or pictures please send them to gryshome@yahoo.com I am Jake's cousin and I want to be sure that we have as many comments and pictures for him as we can. Thank you all!

This is a wonderful thing for you and your family. I truly hope this helps your son. My prayers are with you and your family.

Steve and family - I am so glad this is finally happening for you!! We're excited to help build your new home. Can't wait for them to "Move that bus"!!
Your trusty PT - Janelle

Mr. Grys is my basketball coach. I am so happy for his family. He is so nice to me and my friends. I hope we can have a team party at his house!

your family deserves this home makeover so much! you are a very loving, caring, beautiful family!! congratulations and god bless!!!

Congratulations Grys Family!

From the moment I sat down with Jake a year ago at the Marigold Festival, he captured my heart. I wish you a warm and cozy new home and if there is anything myself or the Peoria Rivermen can do for you, let me know!

Sincerely,

"THE CAPTAIN"

Hey there Big G! We are so very glad that your prayers have been answered and all your service over the years is being rewarded with a brand new home! You and Jeannie are so very deserving and we know that Jake will continue to flourish with your love and a home that he can get around in. Thanks Steve for all your time and energy spent with Katelyn at St. Joe's. You truly have been an inspiration to her!

Love,

Tony, Geri and Special K!

Dear The Grys's Family,
We are so happy and excited for all of you to receive this wonderful gift. It could not happen to a more deserving family. Hope it fills all your needs now and in the years to come!

Congrats Grys family! The Ramos family is very glad that you were picked and wish you only the best on your WELL DESERVED vacation and on your new home. Your family has always given themselves to our community so we are so glad that the community can give back to you.

How thrilling all of this is! The family that teaches all of us how to build a home is now getting a new house! You don't need a home makeover, you already have a wonderful home. You need a house makeover, and in a week you'll be back living in your wonderful house. Love you, as always, Kathy and girls

So glad to see someone from our hometown as the winner of the Extreme Makeover.
Seeing you with Jake at St. Joe's is always an inspiration
It is always so amazing to see how people come together for a good cause.
Congrtulations on being chosen.
God surely does answer prayers.

just wanted to say congrats and hope that jake loves this new home i remember him in stjude with my niece alexis

Congrats !!!! How exciting...hope you are enjoying Disney & can't wait to see you in your new home!!!

Congrats to the Grys family! I wanted to be there to help but I'm a farmer and tied up with the Harvest. Enjoy your new house!!!!

My family and I are so happy for you. You are truly a deserving family. Now "move that bus" and the best is yet to come.

Hi,

Im so happy for you guys. Good luck and keep hanging in there.

Yolanda Dehne

We were thrilled to hear of your selection - dreams came true for your most deserving family. Jake spreads joy wherever he goes with his contagious smile and loving personality! We are happy beyond words for all of you! Love, Lorraine, Sue Ann and Nancy Jane

I dont know you, But this is so awesome so I want to say Congratulations to the family injoy and good luck
God Bless you all
Sue Thompson

I am so happy for you!! I wish I could be in town to celebrate with you but know that my thoughts are with you :) Take care!

Congratulations! You and your family have touched our hearts. I have seen your family around town and when I found out that you were the family chosen I cried. My husband is installing the heating and air for you. We are so very happy to be able to help make your dreams come true.

Steve, Jeannie and all you kids
I have know you guys for years and can not think of anyone who deserves this more than you. You are God sent for the kids you have taken care of and your 4 kids are so caring of all them too. Not a jealious bone in their bodies. I stood and watched Rachel cry her eyes out when EHMO came to the house. I put my arms around her and told her to let it out. She was so happy for her mom and dad. Zac, Josh, Becca and Abby have a great time at Disney, you will never forget it. And you Jake, I watched your Majic today as you blew up your old house. Give Mickey a big kiss and hug for me.
God Bless all of you
Linda

Congrats I am so happy your family is getting your NEW home.Kids are a joy so we need to do what we can to help them thru life.You are GREAT people to do what you have been doing for the last 25 years.
Congrats again BOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY

I just wanted to say congrats to the family. I couldn't think of any other deserveing family. Last year, I helped out in Jake's classroom, quite a bit, my mom being his teacher. I remember her coming home saying how much of a miricle it was to have Jake in her class. He is the type of child that can brighten your day as soon as you see him. Congrats Grys family. And thank you for all you have done for the community. Your in our prayers. :)

i am so happy for you guys out of anybody in this town you guys deserve it the most

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

I am so excited for all of you. I remember when Angie initially was making the tape and now we watched the dream become a reality! I am so excited for what the future holds for Jake and how independent he will be in his new home!

Im so lad they are doing this for you!!!! Its realy awsome i bet.I wish the best for you and hope you stay safe.

I JUST WANTED TO SAY THAT YOUR FAMILY IS AWESOME AND GOD BLESS U FOR WHAT U DO. PEKIN IS BLESSED TO HAVE SUCH A WONDERFUL FAMILY IN OUR COMMUNITY. I WOULD LOVED TO VOLUNTEER MY TIME IF U NEED ME, JUST LET ME KNOW. GODBLESS THOSE WONDERFUL CHILDREN THEY ARE SO ADORABLE. MAY YOUR FUTURE ALWAYS BE BRIGHT.

We have never met, but I want to say congrats! You sound like a wonderful family and very deserving of this make over. I just got my call to come and volunteer tonight and I am so excitted. Both myself and my children have been patients of Easter Seals since birth, born with a rare form of CP. My husband was diagnosed with cancer 3 years ago right in the middle of my youngest having yet another surgery. My family put on a benefit for us to help with the medical bills, and I promised myself and everyone that night that any time I could pay it forward I would. So I come to your house tonight from 8-12 pm probably in the rain and the cold to pay it forward. God bless all of you. And may you have many wonderful days and nights in your new home.

Grys family, we don't know you but our hearts go out to you as if you were our family. We live down the street on Matilda . So we are not that far from you.Jake , you are soooo Cute !!!
My husband will be helping on the night shift to build your new home. He is so excited to make your new house a comfortable place for you to call home.
We love you all!
God Bless
Kevin & Jessy Pribble

It could not of happened to a better Family
we are so happy for all of you. Keep up the good work
your Freind Evonne

We love you guys and we can't wait to see the house! Jake, your an awesome little man you inspire me in some way everytime I see you! So glad this has happened to you guys, you deserve this! Hugs & Kisses to the WHOLE family! Love you guys!

Love,
Dustin and Miranda Davin

i saw jacob when i was in school at limestone and I am so happy that this is the family that was blessed with this wonderful gift. i have you in my prayers.... Stay safe and enjoy your wonderful new house....

I am so happy for your family. My grandson, Drew, has Down Syndrome and went to school with Jake. Drew refers to Jake as his friend when he sees his picture. God bless all of you and I am so happy that finally you will have a home that will make life so much better for all of you.

Glad you were chosen. Are prayers were answered for you and your family good luke to you in the fucher

the Houston Family

Mr. Grys and family, Congratulations on your new home! My son goes to Willow and came home to tell me all about "Mr. Grys' son who is SO COOL! Well, they are getting a new house!" He is so excited for you! Thank you for being such positive role models and truly wonderful people. May your blessings keep coming and only get sweeter.
The Hyde family

Dear Steve, Jeanne, Becca and Abby,
Just a quick note to tell you how happy we are that you are getting a well deserved home makeover! Steve, you and your family are such an inspiration to all if we only had a few more like your family this world would be a better place. Steve you are an awesome basketball coach and from what we have seen an Amazing Father, not all Dad's rush from teaching Special Olympics Basketball to Ballroom dancing with his daughter among all of the other projects you have going in your life. I just want to say you are a well deserving family and I am so glad this happened to you. We will see you next week on Wednesday at Basketball Practice Coach have a great vacation tell Becca and Abby, Mason and all of us said hi and David said to tell you he is running just like you asked....ya up stairs to play video games! I will make him run and practice we need more GOLD! Steve you are greatly appreciated as a coach we will see you soon. David Dockins and the Wienzierl's

It seems so long ago that I signed the online petition
and yet here you are. Our whole family is so excited for your family. I can't wait to volunteer on Sunday! You do so much for others and now we can show your family as a community how grateful we are and how deserving your family is! Congrats again.
Dittrich Family

Grys Family, I am so happy for you all Jake ,I met you at CB Smith School acouple of years ago, You Touched my heart. I have been praying for this to happen for your family since I signed the petition in May. Best wishes to all of you! And Jake KEEP SMILIN'BUDDY!! Lori Zimmerman

Congrats , i'm very happy for you all .. God bless everybody who is working on this dream house . With all the heart breaking stories in our world, its nice to people come altogather for this family .

Dear Jeannie and family. This great news have given me a smile on my face for a long time - I am so happy for you, your really deserves this. Your OI-family in Denmark will find a way to see the show and we will be fill with joy with you. Oh my, am I looking forward to your description of all this Jeannie :-) Lots of love from Denmark.Kis, Mom to Marie, type 3 OI severe.

What a blessing to find people that give and love unconditionally,you are Angels,I hope and pray God blesses you each moment you walk through life,and the children you care for,you are a rare find!!

Coach Grys, Abbey & Becca and family, We are so excited for you!! This could not go to a more deserving family!! Jenna Bundy & family

I have watched every episode of EMHE and hoped that someday they would come to Cental Illinois to have the chance to be part of the build here in Ilinois and volunteer,I was called on Sat and they asked me to work on Friday,I took the day off of work and I will be working from 6am to 6pm.It is truly a dream of mine to be able to help out such a deserving family and to be able to be a part of making Jake's life a little easier.
Thank you Design Built Homes and thank you Jake for inspiring so many people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Zach and all of the Grys family:
I have been praying for you guys since I met Zach almost 2 years ago. You are a loving and well deserving family! Great things happen to great people. I'm so happy for you all. Have fun at Disney World! Zach, tell Goofy I said "HI!"
God Bless,
Angie

There couldn't be a more deserving family!!! We are so happy for Jake and your entire family!!!

Hello Your family doesnt know me but I heard your story on the news and I would like to wish your family good luck and it couldnt happen to a sweeter little boy. I have a little boy as well and I don't know what I would do if anything ever happened to him. I thank god everyday for my healthy son and I hope now that you can relax and know that from this day on your son will be safe and you won't have to worry as much about him being safe because I know Ty and the gang will build you a beautiful safe place for your son to play. GOD BLESS YOU

YOUR PRAYERS HAVE BEEN ANSWERED! CONGRATULATIONS TO THE ENTIRE FAMILY. I AM SO EXCITED FOR EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU. YOU DESERVE IT. THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO!

I JUST WANNA SAY CONGRATS TO JAKE AND HIS FAMILY FOR GETTING THIS NEW HOUSE ..

This family is very deserving of this wonderful gift. (:
i had the pleasure of helping out in a teachers classroom. Jake was one of the students in there.
If I would never of heard of jake before the day I helped in the classroom, i would never have thought there was anything stopping this sweet little boy. he is like most kids, he just has obstacles. and with this makeover of their home, hopefully it will help him overcome some of those obstacles.
and also congratulations to the rest of the family.
you are all veryy deserving.
thank you for being such caring parents to numerous foster kids. :D

We watch the show all the time as a family and it is very touching to see everyone coming together to help out a family in need. It is even better when it is close to home!! My husband has volunteered his time along with family and friends to paint your new home. We hope you enjoy every minute of your lives without any worry anymore. Can't wait to see the show!!

Congratulations Grys Family!

You are all such a wonderful deserving family!
Congratulations from all the staff at A Plus Home Health Care.....Lori Turner

Congratulations Jake & Family from part of your Limestone High School "family", You know how much we all love you. Enjoy Disney World and your new home. You are very special and no one is more deserving than you and your family.

We are so excited that you won. We have been watching with interest Jake's story and your efforts to get a better house for Jake. It has been an exciting trip for everyone watching. As the adoptive parents of two special needs children we know how much effort you put into caring for Jake. Congratulations to you and Angie DeLost for a job well done.

Dan, Michele, JT and Shonna McCullough

Congrats i'm very happy for you!!!

I just wanted to say were so Happy for your Family!You deserve this cause you a very special family.

Jeanie & family,
Congrats on the EMHA. I'm very happy for you. You deserve this so much and I wish nothing but happiness for you. I remember you from when I was little (Jim & Mary Gosnell's daughter).Can wait to help out Thursday. Love, Kelli Walraven

Congratulations Steve and Jeannie!! Steve, I will always remember the morning after you brought Jake home. When you came into my classroom, your love and devotion for him was already apparent.

I watch Extreme Home Makeover every Sunday with my mom and each time I am so thrilled for the families that get a chance at a new and better life through Ty and his crew!

Having Ty and his crew come to Pekin to help the Grys family is a miracle that I know they will always be grateful for all their lives!

Hi, Grys Family! I am SO happy for you. I never knew a family that was more deserving than you. Your upbeat look on life and determination to never give up is an inspiration to us all. Best wishes and congratulations!!!!

Steve - Your little brother is thrilled for you - best of the best at ya - we hope to join you later - enjoy the trip - we'll see you later.

bg

Thank you Angie for using your God-given talents of love, devotion, determination and professionalism to bring to fruition this miraculous occasion for such a deserving family. God Bless you all!

We are soooooo happy for you! Can't think of a more deserving family. Your service to the foster care and participation in Special Olympics goes above and beyond. Enjoy your vacation!!!

So happy for the Grys family. I love seeing people get treated so well that really deserve it. I look forward to reading the paper and not being so depressed when I get done. I hope it is plastered on the front page. We need more uplifting stories, yes it is meaningful news. Congratulations to a very deserving family.

Grys Family,

This morning I have had the honor of getting to know you through fellow parents of Easter Seals kids' first hand stories. I was in tears ... I am amazed by you. You have inspired the parents of our community. They are jumping up and down with you!!! Thanks for bringing this community together - long before that bus rolled into town. Enjoy it ALL - it couldn't be going to a more deserving family!

- Marsie Gale
Peoria Mothers of Twins Club

The Grys are good friends of ours and we are so excited for them! Cant wait to see you guys when you get home!

You guys really deserve this! I remember Jake from when I was a student at Willow School. Have fun at Walt Disney World. Enjoy your new house!

The Grys' are my family, and I would just like to thank everyone who has supported them through the years. No one deserves anything good better then them. I love you guys!
-Lu

I am so happy for this family whose undying devotion to family and wonderful sense of compassion seem to be the major focuses! God blesses those who put others before themselves! Congratulations and God Bless!

Its awesome to see the community come together for the Grys family. They are so deserving of this gift! It does sadden me to read such negative postings on PJStar, though. If you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all...Didn't your mother teach you better?!

Congratulations from the Dream Center in Peoria. Hope you have a great time and a great new house!!!

Congratulations Grys Family!! Have fun Bekah and Abby!

Congratulations Gry's Family!!!!! After reading the story and seeing this little boy who's life is about to really begin, I am am so honered to be a volenteer to make this happen.JAKE HERES TO YOU BUDDY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have a great time on your vacation Grys family!! Enjoy your new home as well!

Congrats to the Grys family. From your friends at Good Shepherd Veterinary Clinic.

You guys are so lucky! Enjoy every minute.

Congratulations Grys Family. My kids had the pleasure of being former students of Mr Grys all i can say is he is the best and kids love him!!! You guys deserve this house so enjoy it! Hope you have a great time on vacation!!!!

WILLOW SCHOOL wants to send our warmest congratulations to our colleague, Steve Grys, and his family-- the deserving recipients of Extreme Home Makeover!! Way to go, Steve & Jeannie!!!
We love you guys!

We are helping with food donations for the new
Gry's kitchen. It is amazing how supportive this area has been to help us gather food gift cards and
non-perisable food items. THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS!

Congratulations! This is such a touching story and such a deserving family. My husband will be helping with the build. What a full filling way to help someone. Congrats Jake and your family!

I simply knew it, Jeannie ! Can't wait to talk to you when you get back from Disney World. My heart goes out to you. Wish I was there to volunteer or for the reveal. The best is yet to be.

Congratulations Grys family - love ya !

Denise V.

My husband & I have had the pleasure of sharing the Pekin Easter Seals ball for the past three years in which we met Jake & his family. This family is an example of pure, unselfish and inspiring morals that we can all learn from. I would also like to tell Jake that I always enjoy visiting with him at the ball when he is all dressed up in his tuxedo & I also love his "knock knock" jokes. We both feel there is no other family who deserves this home & the vacation. Enjoy you new home!

From one Easter Seals family to another -- congratulations! We hope this brings great things to Jake and your whole family! And for helping this happen, another high five to Angie DeLost, OT, who always goes above and beyond for her clients and their families.

WE are so Happy for you.Tom and Trina and kids Etter

As a long time friend of the Grys family,there is no one more deserved of this honor.

Enjoy Disney World and your new home!!

Congratulations to you all! What a wonderful story! Jake is a very inspiring young man! He has such a great attitude and now he will have the independence to soar! Who knows what he will accomplish in his lifetime now! :)

Congradulations Grys Family...

Hope you enjoy the vacation and everything the new home brings to you..My kids will be thrilled to hear you won the home..They always talked about you when they went to school with you....

Congrats to Jake and his family! Congrats to the community! May many small miracles come to those who give of their time, money and heart as this dream becomes a reality. While you don't need famous people to help out a neighbor maybe great things such as this gift to a deserving family will inspire others to give back. Everyone is wealthy when you add love! Thanks Disney and ABC for touching the lives of Central Illinois!

I am so happy for your family. I read the articles in the paper and kept hoping that your family would be chosen. Jake deserves this. He seems like such an awesome little boy. Congrats again...

I'm very happy for this family. They have always shown an "unselfish" example of true kindness. God bless them and return a few extra blessing this Thanksgiving for all they've given!
Robyn & Falynn Lannert

This is soooooo cool to see this happening right here in the heart of Illinois. What a great community that really deserves it. This family is very special to everyone here. Congrats!

While I can't volunteer on the build, it will be great to help with the mortgage for this family. Glad there are ways to help even if you can't be there in person. What a blessing to help!