Very few people would understand the deepness of the sorrow you must feel for the child you are carrying. And even fewer the joy you must feel about the child you have worked so hard to help survive. You are dear and rare and loved.

I just read from yesterday’s post and I’m so sorry. Thinking of you on this special day. Love, Laura M.

not sure what to say for this purpose… just for you to know that thoughts are with you.

Ella’s birth, development, and growth seemed to be THE story of your lives. Perhaps it was just an introduction. Perhaps all life events are introductions to a story about an unfailing God in a fallen world. I’m sure that at times (perhaps many times) you would rather have someone else tell the story. However, God has chosen the West family to reveal a part of Himself. I’m praying for God’s peace and comfort upon you.

Yesterday as I was praying for you and crying and crying, I felt God telling me “Just think about the truth.” The truth is the baby Tina is carrying is a person, an amazing little person whom God desires to spend eternity with us all in heaven. In heaven, that little person’s body will be whole and perfect. Eternity is a marvelously long time to spend with this baby, and time on earth is short. That is the truth. I am so thankful for the baby you are carrying, Tina. I just hate that we all will have to wait so long to meet him or her. I hate the pain and the questions and the unknown, and hurt for you to the bottom of my soul. I’ll be praying for you, sweet Wests. Think on the truth…I know you are. I love you.

Josh & Tina, It has been along time since I read your blog…. my heart is breaking for you all. I think so many have said it so well that you are in His hands and in His perfect will for your lives. He has given you such a tough road to travel but you know you are not traveling it without Him. He obviously has great confidence in your love and faith for Him. I pray that His Holy Spirit will be constantly pouring over you all and that your feet will not touch the ground. God will bless your unborn child in ways that we will not know on this side of eternity. You know guys what ever you are feeling as you walk this new path is okay. God is good all the time. We may not understand but His purpose is not to harm us. (can’t remember the reference for that scripture) He loves you so much and you guys serve Him so well!

Our hearts are broken for your new life in the womb but happiness arises knowing God is in control of all our lives and has a purpose for each one of us. Have a blessed Easter as we celebrate the Resurrestion of our Lord and Saviour. Dan and Nancy

Keeping you all in prayer. God Bless, Christe

I am so sorry my friends. No words can express what my heart feels for you. Will keep you in prayer. Love you.

I have been so blessed to be “connected” to your family. You have shown me, and my boys, so much through your trials. While it may be hard on your family to have such a “needy” child, you have been an example to my children and grandchildren; whenever they can’t do something, I remind them of Ella (and others I have met through your site). I also remind them of God’s people being persecuted every day in other places. It usually works. We are blessed here in the U.S.A. to be able to praise and worship and reach out to others. I understand that there is not a lot our family can do here in NE Washington for your family, EXCEPT to pray and to enjoy the life that He has blessed you with. As we go to Resurrection Sunday, we are reminded of all sacrifices made by Him and by His people. While I don’t consider your life a “tragedy”, I do see it as one of God’s ways to reach and teach all involved. Blessings to your family.

I just went back and read your post about your baby. I am so sorry, and yes, this is a tragedy. The Lord gives and takes away. I know we are not to understand His ways sometimes. At times like these it can be even harder. I am so glad that y’all still hold to the faith so strongly, while others would have buckled by now. Is CDH a hereditary thing? I, too, lost a baby when I was 6 1/2 months pregnant. Her heart just stopped working. While my “Victoria Rose” is within the arms of Jesus, it is still hard, even 22 years later. He has blessed me with a daughter and four sons, along with 6 grandchildren, one on the way. I don’t know why, for I am sure that their are others more “deserving”. I pray that a miraculous healing come over your body and baby, Tina, and that your heart and spirit stay so loving. God opens and closes the womb. I pray, also, that your womb is open for more and more (all that you desire) with no more difficulties. Again, I am sorry for insinuating that your life is not a “tragedy”, for I don’t know what else you would call it now that you are experiencing this heart-ache. My heart reaches out to you for all it’s worth.

Be at peace knowing that He loves you so deeply, knows your hearts and the hopes, pain and struggles you face. The joy of His resurrection reminds us all that nothing is insurmountable when He is at the heart of everything we do. Lord Bless and surround our precious West family with peace, rest and the knowledge of you everylasting presence. Happy Easter – Steve and Joan

I have logged on to this site three times today – each time anticipating I would not read the same words I read yesterday. I am at a loss for words, unable to pray, my heart aches, my mind is dizzy with disbelief. Heavenly Father? I cry out for complete healing for this precious family, this precious life! West family, you are such an inspiration to me and so many! Much, much love and my commitment to pray for you daily, (as soon as I find the words through my tears)

No words…. Thankfully God knows our hearts. Blessed Easter

Ella, You sure can work the camera and all of us too. Nice to see you having a normal day and hope you have a nice Easter. Love, Grandpa!!!!!!!!!