Monday, March 22, 2010

Princess Johanna

Saturday evening I had the privilege of speaking at the Caldwell Pregnancy Care Center's Volunteer Banquet.  I am so honored that they would ask me to do this for them.  The theme of their banquet was "God's Princess".  It's a perfect theme for so many reasons.  The ladies and gentlemen that volunteer their time and resources are royalty in their own right.  And the ladies, men, and babies they minister to are also royalty because someone is taking the time to spread God's love.  The whole evening was a wonderful experience.  And the pastor that led the closing prayer just put the cherry on top of the ice cream for me.  I spoke about Johanna, Trisomy 18, and the decision to give Johanna life.  When this pastor stood up to pray he gave a simple illustration about how parents applaud all of the accomplishments of our children.  When they do something fantabulous(do you like that word?) we will proudly say "that's my son/daughter".  He simply reinforced that Chad and I have chosen the right path by saying that if JoJo could see us she would be saying "that's my mommy/daddy".  I don't if all that's true or not but it just made me even more proud to be her mom.


Had she lived, Johanna would have been 5 months old tomorrow.  I'm sure our lives would be completely different than they are now.  But God had a different plan for our family.  So for now we live without Johanna.  But one day we will be with her again forever.

5 comments:

christina said...

YES! i have often thought our babies would thank us for being an advocate and fighting for their lives in a world and seemingly medical industry that does just the opposite. We never gave up on them! what a great trait for a parent to have for their babies! And still we fight for their lives and an advocate for all babies in the womb!!! go you! so special you get to honor her and be honored too! amen!

Adrienne said...

I can't say enough how much I admire you and how what you did, choosing to give Johanna the live she deserved has totally changed how I would do things if in that situation. I've always been against abortion but there was that fine line like "if the baby is incompatible with life" I thought to myself- what would be the point? But now I totally see. Thanks again for sharing your beautiful story and Johanna's life!

Kelly said...

You are such an amazing woman! I can't tell you what a blessing you are/have been to me. I was praying for you on Saturday- so glad it went well!

Heather said...

I just want you to know I was thinking of you all. I can't believe it has been five months...the strength you have shown encourages me daily. I'm praying for you. Love~Heather

Holly said...

I'm sure your story touched many at the banquet and hopefully your story will one day help someone also to choose life for their baby.

Happy 5 months Johanna!