And we know that in all things God works for the good of those that love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.
Romans 8:28

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Prayers for Emmy

Emersyn's testimony began so very long ago. She's a rainbow baby, our sign of God's promise to us after the storm. She's a miracle from the very beginning. There's no good medical reason why I suddenly got pregnant on a low-dose medicine when so many other treatments had failed. We knew right away that God had big plans for our little lady. We never dreamed that we would endure another trial before we get to hold her in our arms...

On Thursday, we had our "big" ultrasound. I'd been having ultrasounds regularly, but they were done by my doctor to quickly check her progress. This ultrasound was done by the ultrasound technician and was much more in-depth. Initially, everything looked good. Because of my previous experience with ultrasound, I hold my breath until I see that little beating heart. Emmy's was beating away. She was moving around, had the hiccups, and measured right on track.

However, after the ultrasound, my doctor explained that they had found a spot on Emersyn's heart. It's called an echogenic cardiac focus. He explained that although they would normally wait 4 weeks and then re-ultrasound, I was a different case. I've been treated as a high risk patient anyway, and with my history, they wanted to refer me on to the specialist right away. In addition, they also noticed that Emersyn had echogenic bowels. Basically, her bowels show up more white than they should. The doctor explained that these two things could mean any number of things and could be a number of complications. They suggested that I see the high-risk specialist as soon as possible.

On Tuesday, I'll see Dr. Sumners in Indianapolis for a closer look at Emmy's heart and bowels. We'll also be meeting with a genetic counselor to discuss the findings and the possible causes of the abnormalities. After some research on the internet, I'm aware that both echogenic bowels and an echogenic cardiac focus are soft markers for Down Syndrome and other genetic disorders. In addition, there is still the possibility of a hole in the her heart or another cardiac issue.

Jacob and I are asking that you'll join us in praying for a COMPLETE healing for Emersyn's body. We're praying and believing that by the time we arrive at our ultrasound both issues will be completely resolved. We know that Emersyn is a miracle and that God has big plans for her and we believe that this is just another page in our testimony and hers.

I'm asking that everyone please join me in prayer for our baby girl. In addition, if you're able, please join me in fasting on Tuesday and praying for a good report from the doctor. We know that so many have already been lifting us up on a regular basis and are so thankful for all of your prayers and support!!!

10 comments:

  1. I will fast & pray on Tuesday. Praying and agreeing with her life verse: "...may the Lord fulfill all your petitions!"

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  2. God works miracles! I had the same thing told to me, the marker on the heart showed up on the babies 20 week appointment. It was gone a few weeks later! Trusting God can and will do the same for you!!!

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  3. I found your story through a mutual friend....my first born had several markers for down syndrome, including the echogenic cardiac focus. After several ultrasounds, it was cleared and he was born a perfect baby boy! My prayers go out to you on Tuesday and the continuing days throughout your pregnancy!

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  4. I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers. I will fast with you on Tues. as well. God never gives us more than what we can handle. Your faith and love will get you through this. Emmy is a miracle baby sent to you from her big sister and God and they will both be looking out for all of you. Sending you lots of hugs. You're going to be such amazing parents .

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  5. From week 15 until I delivered at week 33 1/2, every monthly ultrasound showed that baby A had a 2 vessel cord, heart & kidney issues and definitely down syndrome. Baby A is Abby… Focus on the Great Physician, not the specialists because they are only "practicing medicine". I would encourage you to speak out loud the truth of God's Word, because we believe more about what comes out of our own mouth than what others say. You are in a battle, a spiritual battle…and you are more than a conqueror!! Baby Emm, you are created in the image of God and He has knit you in your mother's womb! I pray for God's grace and peace to flood Erica and Jacob's heart that they would be anxious for nothing, but with prayer and thanksgiving let their request be known by God who surpasses all understanding; guard their hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, whatever things are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous, if there is anything praiseworthy, to meditate on these things. The things that they have heard, learned, received and have seen God do give them the peace that passes all understanding. In Jesus Name, Amen! (See Philippians 4)

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  6. Will be praying for you Erica...

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  7. Keeping you, Jacob, and sweet Emmy in my prayers!! Knowing and believing in HIS perfect plan!!!

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  8. Praying for you and that everything will be ok...:). I know it doesn't always make sense but everything happens for a reason...just keep your trust and faith in God! Everything will work out... I don't know you personally but just stay strong!

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  9. I've been thinking about you today. I have been down a similar road. I too saw Dr. Sumners. I was told my baby would not live. Today he turned one. Hang in there. Have faith....

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  10. Praying for your family. Praying for complete healing. We have 8 Angels in Heaven. We have Four Children and another baby on the way. We don't know why things happen. The Bible Verse that has gotten me through this pregnancy is: Proverbs 3:5-6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, Lean not onto your own understanding. In all of your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your Paths Straight." I have gained strength from this verse and hope that this will do the same for you.

    We will also pray for Him to give guidance, wisdom and ability to guide the doctors.

    God's blessings to you

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