Week Four

Every week it seems that God brings me a new a challenge with something or someone to pray for. This week has been no different. Have you ever had a day where something completely new was brought up once, twice, or even three times? This happened to me when a certain disturbing topic was brought to my attention through a family member and also through "Pinterest" (of all things). It is a frightening genetic disorder for babies called EB or Epidermolysis Bullosa, which is often very lethal. These children are often referred to as "Butterfly Children" because their skin are so fragile that is bursts open at the mere touch, causing painful sores. They often have to be fed with feeding tubes because they have difficulty swallowing, as well as, using the restroom.

When I saw a picture and read a story of this particular Mom with her child, I just wept. Wept because of this child's pain. Wept for the mother being powerless to take it away. Lastly, I wept because I have a child that  is healthy and her greatest challenge right now is a little bit of a spit-up issue. This woman's story truly gave me a new perspective on thankfulness, but also the conviction that I don't like knowing about these issues. In some instances, I would rather remain ignorant so I don't have to do anything about it; guilt and responsibility free. God won't judge me for something I don't know, right? Surely, ignorance is not a sin? Or can it truly be called "ignorance" when the access to knowledge is all around me? Am I simply unwilling to seek out truth to drive my apathy? These are questions that have raced through my mind this week.

Honestly though, what can I do about this situation? I am DEFINITELY not intelligent enough to come up with a cure. I don't live close enough to lend a personal helping hand. However, I do have an appointment for Carlee this week at the pediatrician's office. So, how is this related? Even though I can't meet this particular child's need at this time, I am sure there are many other sick children with struggling parents that come into my local pediatricians office on a daily basis. It may not be with EB, but still the financial strains of even a minor problem can be great!

I was reminded of this because a dear friend of mine has a baby who has been struggling with health problems for 4 months now. Thankfully, last week doctors found out that her baby was suffering from a rare zinc deficiency problem. Her baby has made drastic improvements since this discovery! Praise God! Unfortunately, this has been a very costly venture for them with $45 copay and weekly specialist visits. This is just one of the many, many testimonies of insurance paying individuals who have to continue paying over and beyond when a loved one gets sick.

With all of this weighing on my heart, it lead me to this weeks project. I decided to help pay for a child's copay at the doctor's office. Although I am sure it was just a drop in the bucket to help pay for someone's medical bill, hopefully it at least encouraged them in a small way. I know that when Kyle was going through his medical problems, a large anonymous donor(s) helped to pay on our vast medical expenses. It was the nicest thing anyone has ever done for us, and we will never forget it!

I realize that most of us cannot afford to take on wide scale projects, like paying off someone's medical bill. However, anything helps! Just the small gestures and prayer can make a huge difference in someone's life. So, my conviction is to not be content in ignorance, but to always be willing to "mourn with those who mourn, and rejoice with those who rejoice"  (Romans 12:15) Recognize that I can make a difference!