Spina Bifida Worldwide Day of Prayer

Did you know?

"October is Spina Bifida Awareness Month, and we SB moms have on our minds, more than anything, the precious unborn babies who are so often terminated before they even have a chance to prove their lives have meaning and value to the world.


To say that 50% of all Spina Bifida affected pregnancies are terminated is a conservative estimate. But we SB moms know there is no reason to terminate a baby because of SB. Our children are beautiful and intelligent gifts from God who have every opportunity to live full, productive, and totally normal yet extraordinary lives.

October 20 is Spina Bifida Kids Worldwide Day of Prayer. We believe in the power of prayer, and we are excited at the prospect of many people praying at the same time for these unborn babies. We moms can make a difference individually and collectively, but that is nothing compared to the change that can come if we have God on our side." { For more info }

This weekend as we waited for our hospital discharge instructions, I spent time reading through the extensive notes in our file documenting this pregnancy, delivery, and time in the NICU.  I was struck by something specific I read in a note from the high risk specialist to my OB.  Tucked in the middle of a letter full of medical jargon was the following, "Patient was counseled regarding termination and refuses based on religious beliefs.  She attends XYZ church" {of the crazy people who hope in something brighter than doctor diagnosis.} {On that note: What the heck does the name of my church have to do with my decision?  But, that's a whole 'nother soapbox...}

Thinking back I was reminded that even my own doctor threw out the T-word in his first three sentences when explaining our original ultrasound. In fact, I was conditioned to dread my prenatal appointments as they gave repeat opportunity for defending my rationale for carrying my sweet baby to term.  The doctors' tone, during my time in each office, was often that of a dreary funeral procession instead of the joyful ballad of new life.

We are so thankful for our joy in hope, patience in affliction, and trust in a perfect plan for our baby boy.  We recognize that he was knit together just the way he was intended to be.

This little man, "who will likely have breathing problems, endure multiple surgeries, spend extended time in the hospital, need a feeding tube, have cognitive impairments, never walk, have kidney problems, have no control of his bladder and bowels, worst case...worst case...worst case..." is our own little miracle. We will never venture to imagine our lives without Gabe.

He has already brought our family closer together. Introduced us to an amazing new community of love and support. Encouraged us to lean on our faith.  Solidified our relationships with some amazing friends.  Brought hundreds together in prayer.

Because of him, and Him, we will join in prayer again today.

For unborn babies.

For kids with spina bifida.

For all children.