Saturday, November 20, 2010

Hello and Goodbye

We welcomed Hope Abels Cronk into our family on November 18, 2010 at 6:39pm.  She weighed 4lbs 8oz and was 17.5 in.  Our sweet baby had soft, fuzzy brown hair and was perfectly formed.  Her big sisters and brothers got to meet and hold her and love her that night.  They had lots of questions about her and were very interested in seeing her little hands and feet.  We also got to introduce her to some of her family and a few of our friends.  We had a very special time with our little baby.  We spent the night with her and the following day holding her and soaking in every moment with her.  Although we all would have liked to have had more time with her and bring her home with us, we said goodbye with many tears on November 19th.  By God's grace, the time we had with Hope was very peaceful and relaxing.  It was wonderful to be able to hold her in my arms and kiss her and tell her of all the dreams I had for her.  And knowing she is up in heaven with her big sister Faith, gave us all a sense of joy.  Although we don't know God's reason for taking Hope, we are trusting in Him with all our heart and leaning not on our own understanding...knowing that His plans are better than we could ever imagine and that the reason for this might blow our minds (as our good friend reminded us). 

We are thankful that the hospital staff was so kind and supportive and understanding.  They helped us make arrangements for Hope as we decided to give her special heart to the cardiologist group in Denver.  Hopefully, with Hope's heart, they can learn more about Ebstein's Anomaly and help another child in the future.

We are so thankful for all the support and prayers we have received.  It has been amazing.  We've been receiving packages at the door with meals, gifts, and toys/crafts for the kids.  It has been such a blessing to us and a joy for our kids as they know things are hard right now.  Thank you so much. 

We are planning on having a memorial service for Hope on Saturday November 27th.  My hope is that we can celebrate Hope's life and praise God during that time.  I will try to write another post after the service so those far away can hear about it. 

Again, thank you for your prayers and support.  It was only through God's strength and the wonderful, amazing help of my husband that I was able to let Hope go and return home to the rest of my family.  We love you Hope.

2 comments:

  1. Love the picture of Hope. I cannot wait to give her and Faith a hug and kiss in heaven. I hope you dont mind but i talked about you and Brian and your faith during adversity in my sermon this morning. Love you and the kids! Rob

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  2. I love you guys! I am so sorry for your loss, and I know Hope will be with you, and forever in your hearts. You now have two angels watching over you and your sweet family.
    My prayers and love go out to you at this time. May God cradle you in His arms as you say your earthly good-byes to your darling daughter. She is beautiful, and so are you and your family.
    Love,
    Vickey

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