Every day with Keren was a miracle we didn't know if we could expect. You see, she was born 6 1/2 years ago with trisomy 18. The official medical classification of this condition is "nonviable with life." Most trisomy 18 kids never make it to birth, let alone the first month of life. Our Keren made it 6 1/2 years.
And she did so much more than survive. She thrived! She surpassed everything the doctors initially told us she would be capable of! She loved, laughed and played every day. She had a unique relationship with each of us and would greet us each a little differently. She loved her sisters and she loved balloons! She loved giving hugs and very wet kisses and she loved pulling beards (just ask Uncle Kris).
Through the years we knew each moment was precious and that Keren's life would be shorter than ours. We knew in our minds that any number of things could take Keren's life quickly. But somewhere in our hearts we had chosen to forget that. She has been so healthy and strong, overcoming common colds that she shouldn't have been able to conquer so easily. When the day came so quickly that this changed, it took us all by surprise. We knew she hadn't been feeling well for a few days but in a matter of minutes it seems this went from a cold to the End.
So Jesus took her home yesterday morning. It seems He took her quickly. And today she is laughing, running, jumping and dancing like she never could here on Earth. Today she is singing to Jesus with words that her lips were never able to form here. Today she is giving Jesus one of those signature "Keren hugs" that we all miss so much.
And that is why our hearts are sad. Because we miss her. Please pray especially for Keren's parents, Kraig (Kris' brother) and Loren. They are hurting in a way none of us can truly comprehend. And pray for their other girls. Clare (3 1/2) and Evelyn (1 1/2) are missing Sissie very much and are struggling to understand.
Here are a few fun pics of Keren & her sister Clare. She was so full of joy and I wanted you to see that.
Thank you for your prayers and help. We've been able to feel the support of those prayers already.
4 comments:
Katrina,
I heard the news yesterday and my heart was saddened for your family. I am praying for all of you as you miss Keren.
jo
We are praying for the entire family, especially Kraig, Loren, Claire, and Evelyn. Please let us know if you need anything!
Jess, George, and Lilly
My heart broke when I heard the news yesterday, and I've been praying for you and your family ever since. I too was thinking of how much fun Keren must be having right now--running and dancing and singing with God. What an awesome picture!
I am so saddened by this news--not for Keren, who as you say is now free of her physical limitations in a way she's never experienced--but for you and your family. I can only imagine the grief you are all feeling. My prayers are with you.
Much love to all of you.
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