Unfailingly Loved

Unfailingly Loved



Wednesday, August 25, 2010

A Victory Despite Difficulty -- He's My Son

On a cold October day, almost 16 years ago, my husband and I walked in to the hospital, carrying our 8 month old son. We walked out later, the day now noticeably colder, after hearing that he had Cerebral Palsy. We were heart broken. So many unknowns and so many fears.

Parker was born at 32 weeks gestation. He was in the ICU, had a prolonged hospital course and a complicated time when he came home, but we never would have guessed that he would be diagnosed with CP.

It would take volumes for me to write his story -- our story -- God's story, in regards to Parker's life. Needless to say, there have been many times of failure and difficulty. In Parker's words, "Having special needs is hard. It really stinks."

However, Parker is bright kid, a fun kid, and a determined kid. Today, I am not going to unpack the hardship, in which time and time again, God has been faithful, but rather share something of a joy. One time a pastor friend of ours shared, "Yes, the difficulties will be great, but the victories will be sweeter.

Below is a special video, recently made -- Teen with Cerebral Palsy Wins Powerlifting Medal. I posted it on Facebook last night and received an outpouring of comments -- comments that greatly encouraged Parker. Thank you to all of you who took the time to cheer him on with your words of affirmation.

Here is a shining moment in his life. Thanks for taking the time to watch it. I hope it inspires you. Please feel free to pass it on.

PS -- And to Coach Brown -- thank you for believing in Parker. God is using you greatly to impact his life. You are making a difference.

7 comments:

Jessica said...

Wow what an inspiring video, thank you for posting this, Andrea! It is so neat to see Parker talking about his journey and how he has become more confident!

We are so proud of you Parker! Keep up the good work buddy! God has great things in store for you if you will follow after him with all your heart! You never know how God will use the circumstances and experiences in your life to encourage someone else for God's glory!

Love you buddy!

Nathan, Jessica, and Caden Smith

Deanna said...

Andrea, what a wonderful video of Parker. I think I smiled the entire time I was watching it.

Juanita said...

Wow...I think I smiled the entire time as well, and I'm feeling spent tonight. I needed this! Those are amazing pipes Parker!!! My son likes showing his off too...he'll be 18 next week. You are inspiring!!
Juanita

Jen Walentowski said...

Wow Parker! What a fine young man you are becoming! It has been a while since we've seen you, but what a delight to see your maturity and perseverence.

I can't wait to show Anna this video. She's been visiting the gym a bit this summer too. Seeing you will encourage her :) Thank you for sharing.

Andrea K. Van Ye said...

Thank you, dear friends, for your comments and e-mails. Your support is an encouragement to Parker as he started back to school. Thank you for blessing his life in so many ways.

Kris said...

Wow - this brought tears to my eyes Andrea. Thank you for sharing this wonderful video - our whole family enjoyed watching this inspiring journey of Parker's!

Andrea K. Van Ye said...

Thanks, Kris! We appreciate your kind words!

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