We now know she has Cystic Fibrosis. And our hearts feel as though they are breaking. But, more than ever, we now know our faith in God can get us through. We now know more than ever, after sharing our news with each family member and crying together over the phone, that we are not alone but have the support of an eternal family. We now know, more than ever, that life can change dramatically in a moment but more than ever, we now know that God never changes--He is the same today,yesterday and forever and in Him we can trust because right now we feel this is all we can do. Please keep us in your prayers.
17 comments:
Dear Ann,
My heart aches for you as you walk a road I too have walked. Twenty three years ago my fourth child was born with spina bifida. We never expect to have a child with challenges. We want them to have a life without the struggles that accompany their diagnosis.
I want you to know that although I have wept many tears over the course of my Elisabeth's life there have been so many blessings.
I share just one moment that has carried me all these years.
When Elisabeth was three I was giving her a bath. Without warning
she looked toward heaven and said aloud.
"Thank you Heavenly Father for my mommy"
I cried and pronounced
"Thank you Heavenly Father for Elisabeth"
I pray you will all be comforted.
Sincerely,
Stephanie
Dear Ann:
You are SO strong. Your testimony is strong. This may be hard, but I believe in you and Brendon.
This amazing strength that you have--and attitude--is very impressive.
When I first really got to know you was shorlty after Katy and I were married and I cooked you lunch at your house--fresh basil, veges, and pasta--do you remember?
As we chatted, I thought how amazingly solid you were.
You are still impressive.
We love ALL of you so much. Thanks for sharing the important perspective with us.
RD
I agree with Ryan. I don't know anyone with more faith in the Lord and strength in herself than you. And we're over the moon for your Brendon. Together you two are the perfect team to root for little Mary Deane as she makes her way through this life. Thank you for your example. You are in our daily prayers and we love you so much.
I love your "but if not" attitude.
http://www.lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-439-25,00.html
I will be thinking and praying for you.
Dearest Ann,
After reading your post, I stared at those beautiful, bright MD eyes for several minutes, mesmerized by the Light of Christ just glowing inside them. It was natural to pray one of those prayers where you really feel the presence of the Spirit after looking at those eyes. I could feel the Lord's love for this little girl fill my living room.
You're right. God never changes. He's known from the beginning that you, Brendon, and Mary Deane would have this challenge, and He is the one that will teach you how to not only get through it, but how to become even stronger than you already are (if that's even possible, because you're already such a rock).
From our years as friends, I can see how Heavenly Father would entrust this journey to you--you love Him so much and have so much faith. And trusting completely in your choices, I can only imagine Brendon is the same. Much love and prayers to both of you and especially to this incredible little girl of yours. We're always here if you need us or if there is anything we can do.
Oh Ann! I'm so sorry to hear this news. Thank you for sharing your bright testimony. We are thinking of you, Mary Deane and Brendon at this time, and please know that you are in our prayers.
I've been waiting to hear the outcome of Mary Deane's tests and am so saddened to hear that they were positive. Her namesake and your family are such strong, faithful people. That legacy will get you all through this. God knows your name and will always be close for strength and peace. She's a little princess with true and righteous parents. She's a blessing in your lives and you in hers. You will all be my prayers always.
Dear Ann and Brendon, I am indeed very sorry to hear the news of Mary Deane's diagnosis...However, I cannot think of anyone stronger in testimony and relationship with their Savior than the two of you. As I have read your posts and seen the beautiful pictures of little Mary Deane I myself have been reminded of what an amazing grandmother you had and I know that your little daughter has a purpose. She is such a peaceful gorgeous little girl I know Heavenly Father has a great and wonderful deed for her and with parents are strong as the two of you I know you will not be let down. Keep up your faith (I have no doubt in you) and you will continue to be blessed!! My prayers will be with you always!!
Love Always and Forever,
Rebecca Goodwin-McConnell
Dear Ann,
You and Brendon are strong. Strong testimonies, strong faith, strong love, and just plain strength.
And Mary Deane has that strength too.
We were not surprised when you told us how amazed you've been at the strength she has shown as she has been poked, prodded and pounded while in the hospital. And that she has charmed the staff with her beauty and smiles.
Dear Ann,
I am a friend of your sister, Jordan. I am so sorry for your news, and am uplifted by your faith. My family prays with your family.
Tasha Adams
Dear Ann,
Ever since my mother told me you named her Mary Deane, I was elated. I new there was some amazing journey ahead of you...this increadible sweet package only for you and Brendon.
Though I wish I knew you better, I think often of the strength of my mother's special Aunt Mary Deane: the one my grandpa Chauncy adored. We all adore her, there was something within her that demanded laughter, learning, and love wherever she went.
Our prayers and hearts will be with you, as I know that your sweet grandmother will also be there to give the three of you love and comfort.
much luv,
trina (sunee's daughter)
ps. a few weeks ago I stumbled upon this article:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2004-04-22-curry_x.htm
it gives hope to those with cystic fibrosis...eating turmeric
Hi Ann, heavy news but thank you for sharing your faith and hope. MD is lucky to have such righteous and committed parents. Jamie, The Deuce, and I want to be your NOVA family. We want to help and support and love as much as we can b/c we love little MD and you two.
Prayers and sympathy from another Ann. God bless and may the angels be close.
Sure love you, Joneses. Heavenly Father knew you could do this.
You and your beautiful daughter are in my heart and you will ever be in my daily prayers. MD has been placed in the care of some of the most loving, dedicated parents I have seen. I pray that the Comforter will be with you and guide you through every moment of every day.
Oh Ann...what can I say? Please know that you are in my prayers. I know that seems like a simple thing to say, but I mean it deep down to my toes.
God knows you and He knows you can do this. I will pray that you will have the strength (and comfort) that you will need to not just endure, but to thrive. Love you.
How you have been in our prayers! And the prayers of many others. (Most particularly Harmons, who asked to let you know they are praying too).
I AGREE.
And I love your post of your fathers' words earlier. Life is HARD. But the unbearable can become bearable. Ben & I are learning a little about that ourselves but how true it is that FAITH makes it all possible. Faith and Love. The Love we have with in our families; for each other; for GOD. The testimony we've been blessed to work to have... this makes hard things easier. We can have joy. HE suffered to know our suffering, but also so we don't HAVE to suffer. So we can endure with sorrow, but ALSO joy.
I love you.
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