Many Needed Prayers

Just to clarify the heading, Ned is doing fine. He is still refluxing pretty severely; however, we have been able to manage it somewhat with the use of probiotics and continuous feeds. We're simply waiting for the 25th to repair the nissen procedure. I am really hoping that once that is complete, he will begin to make some progress on feeding by mouth. I have tried him several times on spoon feeds, but it seems to get to a certain place in his throat and up it comes. I am very encouraged that he is willing to try. I so hope he'll begin to eat a little soon! Even if we're still supplementing him through the g-tube at night, I sure would like to get back to work at some point. I really miss working....just getting showered and out of the house, living in somewhat of a routine and interacting with other adults during the day. I know this is just a season so I'm trying to focus on finding my way where I am and learning to praise God for the place in which He has me. One day, when Ned is going off to college or getting married, I'll look back on this time I have with him and be grateful. Although it isn't what I would choose right now, I certainly don't want to squander it as if it isn't a valuable experience.

On to the prayer request....other than surgery and eating prayers for Ned, there are several other families who are really walking through the fire right now. I'm not sure how many of you have kept up with Baby Skyla's blog. Skyla had the same two major defects as Ned and has struggled with complications from the repairs since her birth last October. I am deeply saddened today as Skyla has lost her fight. My heart is so burdened for her mother. I truely believe that God allowed Skyla to return to Him as she had served her purpose on this earth and He wanted to shelter her from any further suffering. Having said that, I don't know that it will give her mother any peace or comfort at this moment. She has been completely devoted to Skyla and has been her strongest supporter, ally and cheer section. Please pray for her family and specifically her mother, Kristy. I would love to say that I can't imagine what they are going through, but the truth is that I have imagined it in my head many more times than I care to recall. I can't begin to know the surreal reality that is consuming them, but I believe that they must be feeling completely crushed by the realization of all their fears and now facing a sense of loss like none other.

Also, please keep in mind that one day this week may be the day that Baby Seth makes his debut. Please pray that the Lord will lay his protecting hand upon little Seth at this very moment, that He will ordain Seth's birth and use the miraculous healing of Seth's body to speak into the hearts of others. Please keep his parents, April & Russell, in your prayers throughout the week. The unknown, when it relates to your children, is a very dark place to be. I am praying that they will feel the Lord guiding them and holding them granting peace throughout Seth's healing. They are both such beautiful people, I look forward to seeing what a precious child the Lord gives to two such people.

That's all for tonight. I believe in this prayer group and God's faithfulness to respond to your requests. I attribute Ned's life to each and every little prayer that was lifted up in his name. There is much power here and I'm hoping it can now be used to bless others.

Much love to you all!
Betsy, Travis, Jack & Ned