Thank you for your comment!
Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
Wow, that took my breathe away. I read it ever so carefully and held my breathe as I wondered what was next. I will continue to pray for Adison and your family!!
I'm a bit new to your blog, but I had to comment and say, "Praise God!" Hugs to you, C
Your post brought up so many emotions. Thank you for sharing your journey...
My son's cancer diagnosis was terminal but five years later he's still fighting. This quote captured a lot for me...
"We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope."
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Praise God!!! He is soooo faithful! So happy for your family!
What WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL news! I have little happy tears welling up in my eyes. I've always thought Addison looked beautiful and completely normal. I am so glad her development is going so well. Never stop hoping. Doctors told my mom that my brother would never be able to sit and would likely not live past the age of six. He is almost 37 and walks on crutches. He drives a car. He graduated from college and travels independently from time to time. Only God knows what is in store for us. Keep the faith!
Praise God for this wonderful news! Oh, I am tearing up for God's answer to all the prayers and petitioning on Addison's behalf. I am constantly amazed at God's control in ALL things, and that every single aspect of life calls for us to give Him glory and praise.
Doing the happy dance now... Oh, yes I am!
Thank you so much for sharing these tender thoughts and bits of wisdom. I can totally relate to your struggles as our daughter was diagnosed with a heart condition at 3 weeks old and we were also sent to a geneticist for Noonan syndrome, which it turns out she doesn't have even though the cardiologist really thought she did. It took me a long long time to learn it was okay to hope, it was okay to think of her one day going to school instead of mentally planning her funeral. It is amazing to see how gracious and patient God has been as He has taught us to trust him. The verse I keep coming back to again and again is, "taste and see that the Lord is good!"
Celebrating the good news with you! I'm so glad you found a great counselor and that God has put the right people in your life. Our God is an awesome God indeed!
Beautifully written post, Sarah. Thanks for sharing. I'm so glad that you've decided to let yourself hope.
God is so faithful! Thank you for sharing your story with us! I too am a firm believer of counseling. I went through a time in my life where counseling helped me lay things down. I now, like you, tell people they should go. As the hair club ad says, "I'm not a member I'm the president. " I am that for the counseling world Ha! Ha!
Dear Sarah,
What wonderful insight. You and your family are proof that even though bad things happen in this fallen world, our God has and is overcoming. I see Christ in your dealing with all that comes your way in honesty, integrity, and strength. I see it in the time and love that you give all of your husband and children, in the way that you compassionately respond to those around you.
Mostly what I've learned through your experience is that God and his children can not be undone by the circumstances of this life and that gives me hope. thank you.
Sarah,
How wonderful!! How beautiful!! I am so excited about sweet little Addie! 
God is so faithful!!!
I love what you said about protection and deprivation - so true. And, we all struggle with that - at least I know that I do. Thanks for sharing. . .
God is so good, Sarah. I hope that you will one day put all of your thoughts and experiences in a book because we all can learn so much through your strength and faith in God. Isaiah 40:11. God bless you and your family!!
Once again, you said it so well. I understand those feelings. I understand about hope being crushed. I understand Dr. reports that seem so bad that you do not want to hear them say another word. But, by God's grace, there were also the good Dr. reports that made you feel like bursting with joy! I am so thankful for how well Addison is doing. I think it is great that you guys are seeing a counselor--we need more of us to change the statistics on marital survival rates in families of kids with special needs. I am so glad you know Jesus and that He is holding your precious one(s) in His hands. My Sunday School teacher said today that life is like looking at a train--we only see one caboose at a time while it is passing by. But, God in heaven can look down and see the entire train from start to finish. He knows all!
Sorry for the length of this one...
Kristi
Wow, awesome. Such good news. Praying for you.
I couldn't remember if I had commented, but I just wanted to say a big "YAHOO!" all Texan like and everything. =)
Sarah,
This is such a wonderful post. You have so much courage and such a great outlook. Praying for your family and that sweet baby has been a constant since I found your blog. God bless your bright future.
OH, I can SO relate, with our current situation. Thank you. Shannon pointed me here.
A song came to mind... There can be miracles when you believe though hope is frail it's hard to kill...
A mommy who believes is a true blessing!
Sarah, Addison has already done great things in this world. Her story has given others hope and faith.
Don't hope for normal -She has surpassed that title long ago!! Her little heart will continue to affect others.
Sorry, one more thing, he came to know the Lord Jesus personally at the ripe age of 4 1/2. He asks questions about His Savior that I didn't care about until much later in life. God has been so gracious.
Sarah,
I want you to know that I read your blog every day and love your sweet words. We too have been down a very similar path. Our oldest, Jaybird, was sent to have a chromosome analysis and to a neurologist when he was a toddler. We were told the absolute worst outcomes and lived with them for a year. I cried so many nights asking God, "Will he know your son, Jesus?" "Will he have a wife?" I appreciated the caution that the dr. have in preparing parents for the worst, but it can be cruel. I don't know if you have read my blog, but my son is amazing. He is homeschooled, not because he is behind developmentally, but because he is ahead. We will probably not homeschool forever, but I didn't know what else to do with a little boy who just turned six and can read the Chronicles of Narnia at an adult's pace. I know that our outcome is not always the case, but don't be afraid to dream big for Addie. You are a wonderful mom for her!
I think Addy is the most gorgeous beautiful child ever, as are Mr. Gray and Caiden and you're so blessed with 3 gorgeous babies. They are all yours, and they are each amazing in their own way. Addison will do great things, I KNOW it.
Sarah,
I'm so happy for you. That's just wonderful news. I'm so glad you've found the strength and courage to hope. You deserve to enjoy your daughter without having to think about what the future holds. Our mountain-moving Father in heaven decides her future not the doctors.
When one of my best friends asked me if I had thought about seeing a counselor, I immediately withdrew into my shell. However, it has been the best thing for Matt and I. We quickly figured out that we would need someone to help guide us, as you know little sleep, energentic boys, many medical appointments, and not much time with hubby equals disaster. Matt and I love each other and wanted to be proactive. Catch it in the beginning... In the beginning, it was very odd to open up to a complete stranger.
The whole genetic thing is very frustrating. I am quickly finding out that not knowing is much better than defining Ivey, a predetermined expectation is avoided. We are here for you every step of the way. Congratulations on the good news. I pray that Addison is a shining star for everyone.
Gwen
We live by the rule of:
Believe the diagnosis...not the prognosis. No one knows the potential of our children. Addison will move mountains.
We live by the rule of:
Believe the diagnosis...not the prognosis. No one knows the potential of our children...Addison will move mountains.
Sarah,
Not like you need another comment - especially from someone that you don't know...well, here goes. God has a plan and purpose for Addison. It hasn't necessarily been fully revealed at this point and the doctor's can only go by their tests. But He knows what it is. Just as I pray that nothing would prevent the complete fulfillment of every plan and purpose that He has spoken over my boys (5 and 2) so have I prayed that prayer for your children. There is a fire in you righteous woman of God! Let it burn. Continue to choose to trust in Him each and every day regardless of the circumstances! He will never fail you or your family! God is God!
Sarah, that was so very beautifully written. I'm teary. Praise God for that good news. I'll continue to pray for Addison. And for her to get a SCOLARSHIP to college!!!
DeeDee
Like everyone else, I'm overjoyed to hear the latest report. In my world, I often see the worst case scenarios, and parents who deal with it the best they can, and I also have the blessing to see the children who defy every expectation. No, you don't know the future, but I agree that to not allow yourself to hope would be to deny the power of our Lord - Faith is the substance of THINGS HOPED FOR, and the evidence of things unseen. I continue to pray for your family and know that no matter what, the Lord will continue to sustain you and bring you closer to Him and each other. Praise the Lord!
wonderful news!
OH WOW!!! I am so so SO happy for you guys! And what a beautiful post and wonderful pact that y'all have made with each other. I have been hoping to hear some good news from you soon, just knowing that this child seems to be breaking the mold! She is exactly who God created her to be, not who the medical community expected her to be.
I am SO VERY HAPPY for you guys! God is SO GOOD!!!
For some reason the computer screen is a little blurry as it try to type this. 
So many prayers answered with this visit to the geneticist. Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow!! If her expectations for Addison were so offbase the first time, how about in the future?? God is in control, not that geneticist. Like Toni, I thought and hoped that Addison couldn't be as handicapped as you were led to believe at first. From what I've read here and from her pictures she was right on schedule for any child her age.
I pray she continues to surprise her doctors and you with her growth and accomplishments. May she grow up to lead a full and happy life.
Savor all the Addie moments, Sarah. Don't be afraid to love her and soak up all the firsts and hope for her future.
I am crying tears of joy for you and your family, Sarah. It IS okay to hope! My daughter was diagnosed with neutropenia when she was 2, and we were told worst case scenarios (leukemia), and best case. Thankfully, she is best case, as it is something she will have outgrown by the age of 6. While we did have to prepare for the worst, just in case, the only thing that got me through the waiting part was the hope that she would be okay. And knowing she was in God's hands. No matter what, don't forget your precious girl is in the best place possible - in her Maker's hands.
God bless!
Sarah, I wish I had a way of talking more privately with you because I can only share a little bit of what must remain very private in such a public forum. We are where you are hoping you will never be. There was a diagnosis that affects not just us but our children and our grandchildren. It is my worst nightmare come true. I thought there would never be joy again. I couldn't even pray for ages - I was so disappointed with God.
But.....I still dare to hope; still pray for that miracle. We have learned to be thankful for THIS Day and not look ahead to tomorrow. I cling to the 139th Psalm knowing that He knew each of my precious loved ones before the foundation of the world; cling to the promise that His plans are to prosper them. I don't know how it will all play out. I am learning to trust in a bit way - something I have been very poor at all my life. I want to know how the story ends; I don't want to wait; and I want it to all end happy. I don't have any of that right now. But I have today. And I have the Lord. And I do trust Him in a way I have never been able to before.
It isn't easy, but I have had a sense of peace that just baffles me at times. I told my dear friend that sometimes I feel stupid for not worrying more, not doing more. She said, "It's an answer to our prayer for peace."
I pray for you peace and hope and a miracle for Addy.
Sarah: i have been reading your blogs ever since Lisa mentioned it in her weekly journal.I'm not trying to be nosey,but am wondering if Addison has Turners syndrome. I also have a daughter with turners who is now 19.She also has heart surgery.Just wondering if you would be interested in getting any info from me regarding her health issues and cognitive journey..Blessings cheryl
I'm singing with you for the good news Sarah- for all of you. Sometimes God just throws a lifeboat when you need it
Unfortunately, we are abit further away from shore - things have turned, but, we hold faith that this is the plan.
Hope the picture arrived safely in email.
Hugs to all of you and kiss that baby girl for me.
I just said, "Oh!" and let out a huge sigh at how simply beautiful and poignant this post is. We have been in the same boat with our Parker for the last 2 years. We have a diagnosis, we have seen th MRI which shows the spot where his bleed occurred in his brain, but he does not look or act like he has CP but for rare occaisions and in mild ways.
How many times Ryland & I have laid in bed at night asking these questions 'Will he walk without aid?" "Will he be able to go to school with his siblings? " "How will he be affected?" The turth is that NONE of us know what tomorrow brings...diagnosises seem to give us a sneak preview...but sometimes they are misleading. Keep loving her & believing in her.
Oh, I am gushing over your clear communication of my feelings, now...but WOW! you have really nailed it with this post!
sorry- that last post was from me...I didn't mean for it to say "anonymous" woops...sarahgrace
I love reading your posts, Sarah- I learn quite a bit when I come here. Thank you for not protecting us from your thoughts, for we certainly would be deprived as well. And know that the rest of us are hoping (and praying) right along with you. : )
That's great news! There is nothing like a hearing great news at a doctor's office. Your family shoud go celebrate.
I'm in the same shape your Mom's in. I want to say something but it's really hard to get past the lump in my throat.
So I'll say two things. I am so relieved at your shift in focus and attitude. Of course it's wonderful news that she's doing so well. But even if she weren't you must enjoy every single moment and not let worry about the future cause you to look back with regret that you didn't live more in the moment. I'm so happy to see that you know that now.
And second. On a lighter note. When you said you've suggested counseling to your whole family, you must have meant your immediate family because I don't recall you ever recommending it to me. You probably just THOUGHT about it a lot, right? Aunt Barb needs therapy, going round and round in your head, right?
This is such encouraging news. I think it's about time for a new photo...say, in something pink?
Wonderful news!!
Hugs
Mary
what a beautiful post. that really touched my heart. i wasn't aware of all your struggles as i've only been reading since about the time of your daughter's surgery.
i love the way you brought all that together in the post and worked it together at the end with the "protection from hope means deprivation of joy." i can see so many times when i have pushed down my fears as well as my hope and i never saw it as deprivation.
may God continue to bless your family.
Oh, Sarah! How marvelous. God is good, isn't he? I mean, he's good even when the news is bad. But it's easier to wrap our arms around his goodness when the news is spectacular. Can I tell you I've been hoping too? Without knowing any details, it's seemed to me whatever genetic problem she might have doesn't jive with her sweet little face and all the stories you tell about her behavior. I'm not surprised by your news, but I am spectacularly pleased.
Sarah -
I am all teary-eyed...what a huge, gigantic, huge, enormous, huge, BIG praise! I wondered this morning how yesterday went for y'all - and this report is just beyond my wildest dreams.
You give that sweet baby girl lots of sugar from me!
Love love love -
S
Tears? Yes. I'm just thrilled about Addison's report yesterday and maybe more thrilled that you are learning to enjoy these days with the precious daughter God has given you so that you won't miss a single thing. I'm afraid I did a little of that when #2 was a newborn and ever so thankful when I made it past that stage! God is good. Continuing to pray for you all.
I forgot to say, you are very wise to allow yourselves to be "counseled" during this time. We did not even know it was an option after our daughter was born and nearly died. We had multiple appointments with her to multiple doctor's and therapists weekly for years. Our marriage became pretty rocky and shaky due to the stress of it all.
By the grace of God He saw us through that and we are now stronger because of it.... but oh the stories of families ripped apart due to this type of stress.... heartbreaking!
Tears streaming down my face as my heart has those exact same questions for my daughter. We're off to a rough start at school. The SPD is flaring strong again. I just met a lady with short term memory issues due to another reason... but still can't find and hold a job because of it. I can't be guaranteed the next concept in school won't be too difficult, to overwhelming, to much for her to overcome.
In the beginning she was progressing so rapidly compared to what the doctor's were saying. She proved them wrong every time. She did better than expected in speech and occupational therapy. She was appearing "normal".
Now I feel we are losing ground and losing it quickly... and I'm afraid this mother's heart, that has believed in hope for so long, is now losing hope.
AARRRGHGHG... I'm not even sure what else to put here. It's just so difficult to put into words right now for me.
Thanks for sharing this and challenging my heart, reminding my heart, once again... to cherish each moment for what it is!!
Sarah, I discovered your blog 3 months ago. It is one of the first things I check when I get on my computer in the mornings. You are a gifted writer and an even more amazing person. You are able to take what is going on inside of you and share it with others in an incredible way. You have such a sweet spirit about you and it is so obvious where it comes from. God bless you and your sweet family.
Dear Sarah, tears welled up in my eyes today as I read your recent post. I appreciate your honesty and willingness to be so vulnerable on your blog. I can understand what you have shared because I am on the verge of discovering a possible genetic syndrome in my daughter who has heart problems. I don't even know what to expect for the appt. with a geneticist (the appt. still hasn't been bookd). It is hard to hope, while the world around you shouts that God may heal your child, etc. I prepare myself more to accept a diagnosis and to allow God to do His work. Like you, I tend to share my worries, concerns, what I've read, etc. in regard to what we are going through with my husband. He deals with these things differently than I do. I prepare myself to hear what may be said and accept it. I also want to be prepared to be an advocate, to understand what may be shared, etc. He's the type who will deal with it if and when it comes. We are indeed very different but we do need to share, as we do. I thank the Lord that He is blessing your marriage and opening up communication between the two of you as a result of this counseling. I do thank you for just sharing what is on your heart b/c there is so much in mine, some similar to yours. I don't dwell on things everyday, I relish the moments I have, but there is still the reality of what IS there and what may be. It is so true that the dreams for your child are affected and the "what if's" arise. It can be hard to embrace the hope but when it presses and the Lord blesses, what a treasure! My heart is so touched by your post that I don't truly think I can convey all I really am thinking. Bless you for sharing your life with us. :0)
Well, I want to comment, but cant. Tears of hope, of joy, of love.
Oh Sarah, I just cried while I read this. Tears for God's faithfulness to answer prayers and tears for the hope He allows us to have when we trust in Him. I will continue to hope and pray with y'all for Addison.
Did you get my email the other day?
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