Baby Samuel

A few weeks after Miss Harper was born, a lovely couple in our church gave birth to a precious baby boy named Samuel. I don't know this family personally but by virtue of some mutual friends, I have been following their story and praying diligently for this sweet family.

Stephan and Hannah knew their baby boy would have many challenges when he was born based on anatomical problems diagnosed in utero--all together these findings are called Pentalogy of Cantrell. This syndrome is based on defects of the heart, abdominal wall, sternum and diaphragm. But God was working miracles in this child before his birth day and the stage is now set for Him to demonstrate His mighty power even further--Samuel has a long way to go and needs our prayers. He is in the NICU at UVA on an ultra-specialized type of life support (ECMO).

I have cried so many tears over Samuel, even never having met him or his parents. I remember him all through the day, and especially when I am up at 2 a.m. with Harper. I pray that God will forgive me as I grumble for being awake with a screaming baby at this hour for I can imagine Samuel's parents would give the world to be home with him, healthy and screaming at 2 a.m. I plead with God to have mercy on this baby boy and his parents. I thank God for my two healthy children. And I remember that God's got the whole world in His hands and that prayer changes things. So, I pray. Won't you, too?

Samuel's family is keeping a website to update family and friends. If you feel compelled, there is a fund set up to help with the massive financial burden of a prolonged stay in the NICU, missed work, travel, etc. But above all, please say a prayer for this family; for healing for Samuel, healing for his mom after c-section delivery, and peace in their hearts.

http://www.gofundme.com/Baby-Samuel