Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Urgent Prayer Request For Amden

Pray for Amden

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I come to you with a full heart, asking for prayer. My great nephew, Amden Alecole Horne was born on Monday, February 15th, 2010. He is a beautifully handsome little man, weighing 7 pounds 2 ounces and 19 inches long. He was born to young parents who love him very much, Jordan and Amber.

Today, Amden was diagnosed with Down Syndrome. They will run more tests tomorrow to verify or rule out this diagnosis. This is a devastating diagnosis! Please pray for Amden and his parents.

My family has come to understand that I look at things differently. What one person sees as devastating, I see as a part of GOD's divine plan. I see the good in strange or difficult things. Don't get me wrong, my heart breaks for my nephew Jordan and Amber. I know they must be scared and overwhelmed.

As I prayed this afternoon, GOD spoke clearly to me! This is what I heard:

"I will use this precious life to teach your family and many others what real love is...when you look into Amden's eyes you will see the love of Christ. He will be a blessing in your families life."

With love and prayers,

Andrea

PS: I am sorry I have not been able to visit with any of you, today. As I finished typing this, the phone rang. My daughter in law's estranged father was tragically killed in another state. This is another difficult situation. He has not been a part of her life. He was in and out of jail and lived homeless for some time. Please also pray for Jennifer. She has some tough decisions to make regarding his body, her siblings, etc. She is only 23 years old. Her mother abandoned her as a small child and she has buried her grandparents who raised her. She belongs to Doug and I, now. We promised her grandmother on her death bed that we would always be here for her. I thank each of you for faithfully praying for my family, extended family, and all those I love!

112 comments:

Kwana said...

I am so sorry for all you and your family are going through. My prayers are with you.

Betsy Markman said...

Lord, please be with this family in extraordinary ways during this extraordinarily painful time!

RefreshMom said...

Such a lot for one family at one time! I'll be praying.

If Jordan and Amber would like support from one who has been there, please let me know. A sweet friend just celebrated her lovely Down's Syndrome daughter's 9th birthday on Valentine's Day. She is a wonderful support and advocate for other families who find themselves on this unexpected but blessed path.

Cathy said...

Praying about all these needs, Dear ~

Mike Golch said...

Prayers are being ofdfered,and I will post a prayer request on my site as well.

Unknown said...

I will be praying for the young parents. I know their sorrow mixed with joy. Praying for your daughter in law that God would give her peace and wisdom.

Love and blessings,
Patricia

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry about all that your family is going through...

Father, I ask that you hold Andrea's family members in your arms of love tonight. Please give them strength. Thank you Father that you hold each one as they pass through the waters.

Hugs,
Tammy

Samantha said...

Lifting your dear family in prayers.
Hugs and love to you dear one.

Parsley said...

Prayers of course. Please keep us updated.

RCUBEs said...

May God's comfort and strength cover you all sis.

Saranne said...

Holding your loved ones in prayer tonight...OXOX

karen said...

Prayers will be offered up , Andrea.. If it's ok, I will be posting a prayer request to my prayer group 911 here at home, for little Amden, and Jennifer tonight.. Just Rest, sister... You are loved...deeply.

Anonymous said...

I love what God shared with you regarding your little great-nephew and soooo believe it! I'm praying for your requests.

Denise said...

Bless you dear one, I am very sorry for all your family is going through right now. I am praying, love you.

American History said...

your prayer touched me. I'm praying! I found this site helpful www.holylandprayer.com Check it; maybe it gives you a relief. God bless.

Crown of Beauty said...

I will keep the new baby Amden, and your daughter in law Jennifer, in my prayers.

What God spoke to you is awesome!

Love
Lidj

Formerly known as Frau said...

Prayers and warm thoughts for you and your family.

Regina said...

I join you in prayers Andrea.

Ruth said...

My heart goes out to you right now, Andrea. May God's peace reign in your heart and your family's as well. Prayers are lifted now.

Just Be Real said...

Andrea, thank you for sharing. I marvel at the strength that God has given you and what He has shared with you. I pray for you and your family that God will pour out His love through this child to all involved. Much hugs to you dear one.

Claudia Medeiros said...

Dear Andrea,

A child is always a gift from GOD.
GOD has sent Amden with a beautiful mission of love and peace, I'm sure !!!
His parents are in my prayers :) I'm a mother and GOD uses to give a special attention to mother's prayers ;)

Get well, dear friend. That's why we're here : to learn, love and share :)

Love and prayers,

Claudia.

Nikki (Sarah) said...

I have a few friends who have mentally challenged children. They claim they have learned love in ways they never could have without their special needs child. Praying and believing the same for this young couple. I too don't see this as devestating but a gift. Praying they will come to see this baby as a wonderful gift. Stay strong out there.

Terri Tiffany said...

Oh Andrae, I'm so sorry too for all this that is going on around you but I know you will be the greatest blessing to them all! Praying!

Old Time Cindy said...

Andrea,
Keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers. Blessings...
Cindy at Lakewood

T said...

Praying for your family through the difficult times.

Anonymous said...

Praying for the precious new life that entered this world and for your daughter-in-law at the loss of her estranged dad.
Hugs and prayers,
Deb

Wylie @ Shout A Joyful Noise! said...

Praying sister!!!
Wylie

Anonymous said...

May God be with and bless you all!

A Mother Always said...

Praying for your strength and for your loved ones to find solace .


BM

Kelly said...

I am so sorry! You are having one tough week. The sweet couple with the baby need to get hooked up in a DS community. My friend recently had a DS baby, and joining a support group has meant the world to her. I pray this young couple have that community as well. I also pray for your precious DIL that she will feel God's love during this tough time.

Be blessed.

Courtney at SL's No Ennui said...

What a beautiful and encouraging assessment.

Prayers for your family and precious Amden during this time.

Nel said...

Prayers going up!

until next time... nel

Jackie said...

Praying, praying!!!

Standing in the gap with you for sweet Amden and dear Jennifer!

He is faithful!!

Luv, Hugs and Sweet Blessings!
Jackie

homeschool101 said...

Bless his heart. He is so adorable. I am praying for you and your family. This little bundle will be mighty in Christ. Many prayers to heaven and I snatched the code above. Blessings my friend!

Holly said...

OH Andrea,
I will be praying for the family and your Daughter in Law.....

You are right.
God will use all things for our good... He is still an amazing blessing from God...

Anonymous said...

He is precious. Prayers being said now!

Pet said...

Praying for you and your family.

Heart2Heart said...

Andrea,

As I stated in your email that God always makes things work out for His good and according to His will. Praying that this little angel will enlighten this family with God's love and in time, nothing but good will work out.


Love and Hugs ~ Kat

Anonymous said...

God bless you and your family and lift all up in comfort and strength through this time!

*Hugs* Just said a prayer for all!

Tea with Tiffany said...

Father God, we know Your plans for baby Amden are good. His life is not hidden from You. You knit him together in His mother's womb. He is beautiful and precious and loved by you. Completed loved. I agree with Andrea and what you shared with her. You will use his life as a way to show Your love. Praise the Lord. We love You, Jesus. Shine brightly in this families' lives right now. Calm their anxious hearts. Give them Your peace. Send hope again. Bless them today right where they are. Cover them in healing love. Wrap Your loving arms around them.

Be with Jennifer. Show Yourself strong on her behalf. Allow her to make wise decisions about her enstranged father's death. Grant her peace. Comfort her during this time of loss. Turn her tears to songs of joy, Lord. In Your time. Until then, hold her close. Let her know she is never alone. Your eye is on her. You are well pleased. Amen.

NanaNor's said...

Dear Andrea, I agree with Tiffany and her prayers...I echo them and say amen. I've worked with Down Syndrome children and it is not like it was in the 50's. These special gifts from above give unconditional love and while there may be challenges the blessings outnumber them. Praying for Amden's parents and also for Jennifer and the Father's grace and comfort for her.
Hugs today.
Noreen

Unknown said...

I saw your comment on Deidra's blog and wanted to let you know that Amden and his mommy and daddy are in my prayers. He is beautiful!! I believe that God has plans for this little guy. Hold on to your seats. It's going to be a beautiful adventure!

Also, continue to wrap Jennifer in your arms. She must truly feel alone in all of the decisions and thoughts going through her mind.

I'll pray for comfort, love and peace in her life.

Kristie said...

Oh my Andrea-so much at once....I will be keeping you and your family in my prayers. Many, many hugs being sent your way :-)

By the way-Amden is beautiful! :-)

Warren Baldwin said...

Wow, your family has a lot on you right now. Yes, we will pray. God bless.

Joyce said...

Oh lots of heavy things...I'm sorry for all these trials. I will pray for your daughter in law...it's amazing how heavy the burden is for some people but we know that nothing is too big for God.

And your little nephew too...I'm sure these are difficult days but I pray his parents can find peace and joy in this little boy. He is beautiful.

The Red Brick Farmhouse said...

You are all in my thoughts and prayers!

I have posted on my blog as well as on the prayer list on my sidebar!

Blessings, sweet Andrea~
Laura

marylea said...

It's so inspiring to see so many comments already, Andrea. I am really touched by these two unrelated stories that affect your family today. That precious little new baby, your great nephew, Amden, has the most perfectly contented look on his sweet face! I bet his parents are worried about him. And for your daughter-in-law, Jennifer's, most recent loss, you can also count on my prayers. For them, and for all concerned. God be with you and bless you and those you love. How comforting those words from him to you must sound! I believe they are true, too.

Rebecca said...

Praying, Andrea. Will keep returning to hear how God is blessings and sustaining you as you minister to your daughter-in-law & these new, young parents.

Jennifer {Studio JRU} said...

Amden looks like the sweetest little baby I have ever seen... like an angel! I'm sure he will be a blessing straight from God! I will be praying for your family!!

Diane Shiffer said...

As a mama of two lovely children with Down syndrome, I will certainly be praying for little Amden and his dear parents and I just want to tell you- in the warmest words that I possibly can- that Down syndrome is nothing to fear. In fact, to my way of thinking having a child with Down syndrome has been one of the most incredible gifts of my life. It's a bit different because I adopted my children with Down syndrome, but still. My husband once said about our daughter, "Millen isn't handicapped... she's a higher life form." (the man has his faults but the man is smart;)) Amelia once said, "We need Millen. Without her we wouldn't be who we are." Even Noah cherishes her... he feels that God gave him to Millen as a special brother to "take care of her."
Millen is a ballerina, a princess, a prayer warrior and I literally thank God for her every day. If only every family could be as blessed as we have been♥

And I will be praying for your daughter in law as well... how blessed she is to have you in her life☺

RaD said...

I saw your urgent prayer request message on Homestead Wannabes and popped over. We'll be praying!

Anonymous said...

Oh Andrea, I am praying for your family. I, too, know that God's creations are all perfect in HIs sight.
Working with profoundly handicapped infants years ago who would never progress past 1 month of age no matter how many years they lived, I found the beauty within each little heart. They were precious in God's sight and became precious in mine. One mother told me that I was the only other person that had ever loved her Tracy, truly loved her. And I did.
I have a nephew-in-law who is Down's and he is the most loving and delightful young man. He is 30 years old now and lives in a group home thrilled that he has "a room in a house of his own".
May God shelter each one in His Presence and grow them in His love.
~ linda

Girly Muse said...

Oh, Andrea! My heart is heavy for you and yours. Will be praying for Amden, Jordan, Amber, Jennifer and all who love them as you go through this together.

Love and prayers,
Lori

Debby@Just Breathe said...

Andrea I will pray for Amden and his parents. Also when you have time and maybe when his mother has time you need to read this story.
http://enjoyingthesmallthings.blogspot.com/2010/01/nella-cordelia-birth-story.html
I am so sorry about the death of you DIL's father. I will pray for her as she goes through this difficult time in her life.
You take care and I will keep you in my prayers too.

Deborah said...

Andrea, I have tears in my eyes for you. I'm praying for Amden and your daughter in law's estranged father. The sad thing is,as you know, he is still her father, good, bad or indifferent and the feelings, even negative ones can be so sad. We had lost my husbands estranged daughter five years ago, although we tried to help her so many times, Leah just never wanted the help. She died 5 years ago from a drug overdose and this has effected my husband greatly. They were some what estranged and didn't talk the last year of her life. But the hurt was still there and is still there. He is finally going to conseling for his feelings of loss and despair. I will pray for Jennifer as she must feel so overwhelmed right now.
I also believe the Amden is a gift from God who will teach many great things.
Blessings,
Deborah

Raymonde said...

Hello Andrea, Baby Amden and his family are in my prayers, what a cutie, he is going to be such a blessings on his parents.
And your daughter-in-law and her family. Thank God she has you.

You know where your comfort comes from, still big hug (((♥)))
Take care. xxx

Jilliebeanie said...

Blessings to you and your family. As someone who comes from a home with a special child (my brother is mentally handicap), I can attest that things won't be easy for this young couple, but their child will ultimately bring them great joy and blessing beyond what they ever imagined. People with Downs are so sweet and lovable and truly have purpose.

Mary Ellen said...

Lifting your family up in prayer. God bless.

Mary Ellen

Unknown said...

I am praying over both families. Please keep us updated!

Kathleen said...

Such difficult situations; and so very painful!

Thank God they have YOU in their lives to be the hands & hugs of God - the light that will burn so brightly in what must seem to them utter darkness.

Praying for all of you,
Kathleen

P.S. What a precious word from the Lord.

Rosemary said...

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Rosemary

Sheryl said...

wow!! love the word that God gave to you.

know that i will be praying.

Heckety said...

I'm sorry for your Jennifer and the decisions waiting on her, she has my prayers.
Regarding Amden: from my experience with teaching 'Down Syndrome' children the verse you were given is absolutely perfect-their hugest greatest most amazingly wonderful gift is to LOVE! His parents have tough times and decisions before them but from my view they also have a lot of laughter and fun and adoring love ahead of them.

Cathy said...

Praying Andrea!

Debbie said...

This is a lot to be dealing with at one time and I am definitely lifting you all in prayer. Our God is mighty and I too believe He has given your family a special gift in the form of Amden. Your daughter-in-law certainly has a lot on her plate right now and I will pray that the Lord give her wisdom, comfort and His perfect peace. Hugs, Debbie

Attic Clutter said...

Amden - oh he is so sweet I will pray for you all Andrea..
blessing to you..hugs,Patty

Tracy said...

I've prayed for Jordan and Amber and their new son Amden as well as Jennifer and the decisions she needs to be making right now. I'll continue to pray.

May you be strengthend and encouraged as you're here encouraging these you love.

Anonymous said...

He is a Beautiful Baby :)
Gods special gift.

Sorry for the loss in the family.
I will be praying for the family.

Ellen Sallas, TAM said...

Many of God's saints have Down's... it is scary but this little boy will represent Jesus like none other. And he will bring many people into the Kingdom of God with his perfect and unspoiled love. May God bless you and this wonderful family!

Alice Grace said...

You and Amden's parents will find him a perfect angel. All the children that I have seen are like angels of God! They are precious! Of course, they will be handicapped for doing all the things that his parents had hoped for, but I pray they will find peace with this, because Amden will be so precious! I love the children with Down's Syndrome. I do sincerely pray that Amden and his parents have hope and joy in him as he grows and shows the world what a wonderful person he is. God bless your entire family at this time.

Diana Ferguson said...

Lifting the entire family up!!

Nicole said...

May God comfort you in this most difficult time

Rebecca Evans said...

Thanks so much for pointing that out! I missed your post somehow! I will keep this lil guy in my prayers! God has his purposes for why things happen.. I look at things that way too! God Bless ya Andrea...

I will keep Jennifer in my prayers too!!

Fliterary said...

My prayers are with you and your family.

Gentle hugs,

Lisa

Anonymous said...

I send prayers lifted on the wind to soothe and comfort you and your loved ones. They seem to just pile up as issues do.. leave them on God's door step and ask.

with love,
Olivia

Mari said...

I know several families that have children with Downs Syndrome and say they are the biggest blessing of their life, although it's hard to take in at first. I'll be praying for Amden and for Jennifer too.

Anonymous said...

I am praying for all of you.

Barbara said...

Praying for you and your family during these trying times. You will be the rock in both these situations...your faith can pave the way for God to move.

Lynn said...

Andrea, I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time..

I have Amden on my blog for urgent prayers too..

Blessings,
~Lynn

~Sandy said...

Prayers going up for your family.(((hugs))

Andrea said...

Oh my gracious, your yoke is heavy today. I will be praying for you and your family.

Monique said...

Your family is in my prayers.

Simple Home said...

Andrea, I'm adding these to my prayer list. I'll be praying.
Blessings,
Marcia

Sharlyn Guthrie said...

I'll be lifting these precious family members of yours up in prayer, Andrea. I have no doubt that Amden will indeed be a blessing to all who know and come to love him.

Kelly L said...

I will lift your family up in prayer today - I agree with you that Amden will be a blessing - God does NOT make mistakes.. His will will be glorified.. but I do understand the pain - I will pray for peace and comfort. I will also pray for your daughter in law - and the loss of what could have been and the sadness that is happening.
Love to you as always.
Kelly

MYstory of HIStory said...

What a beautiful baby. And I know from experience that if indeed he has Downs Sydrome...your assessment is so true/right on here. You are just so right!

Praying for him & his family.

Skoots1moM said...

we work with special needs teens in our youth group and they are christ's eyes...so sweet and loving.
prayers coming your way
love god's words to you
you will be able to convey it to them in very special ways...when the time is right
prayers for jennifer, too
remind them not to miss the lesson in the suffering, being aware of god blessing them through it

Marsha said...

I grabbed Admen's button off of Edie's site last night. I continue to pray for him.

And now your daughter in law. Bless her heart! I'll be praying for her as well. AND for you. You have a full plate right now.

Carla Gade said...

Oh, Andrea. I'm so sorry to hear of all this heartache in your family right now. You are all in my prayers. The Lord knows. He knows.
{{{{ hugs }}}}}
Carla

Lisa Smith said...

I will pray without ceasing for Amden, his parents and you and his entire family! Praying for wisdom for doctors and peace and healing!!! The not knowing is so, so hard. Psalm 40 is what i clung to today. love you, lisa

Nel said...

I am putting the prayer button on my sidebar. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you!

Rita said...

Dear Andrea, your family is going through so very much right now and it is very difficult to watch it happening. I pray that the baby will be a great blessing in their lives and that your niece will be able to overcome the tragedies that have come into her life at this time. But not only for them, but for you and the rest of the family as well. Down Syndrone babies can be such a treasure in one's life. I have a friend who has a beautiful daughter in the same condition and she has delighted them through the years.

Saleslady371 said...

Praying for Amden and Jennifer. May God give you wisdom as you help her make decisions. Bless you.

COUNTRY MOM said...

Andrea, Many Thoughts and Prayers are with Amden and your family. He is a beautiful baby boy. Update when you can. Blessings my Friend,

Dayne Gingrich said...

I'll definitely be praying!

I have a 1 yr old who's completely changed my and my wife's life. Never knew LOVE COULD FEEL LIKE THIS!!!

God bless you and your family.

Dayne

Margaret Metz said...

Praying for your family.

Lyn said...

Dear Andrea, praying for little Amden, and his Mommy and Daddy.

love,
Lynne

Purple Flowers said...

Warm thoughts and prayers are with you.

Cathy Bryant said...

Prayers & hugs, Andrea! I believe with all my heart that Amden will be a blessing to many! (Also praying for your daughter-in-love!)

christy rose said...

Andrea, I am so sorry to hear about your daughter in laws father. I will be praying for her and for your neice and nephew in leaning upon the Lord to get through this time in their life and take each day one step at a time in His grace!

Jackie said...

Hey Andrea.....Just stopping back by to let you know that you and yours are on my mind and heart and continually in my prayers!

He is Faithful!

Luv & Hugs
Jackie

Unknown said...

Andrea,

Got the prayer request out at Glass House and the button on my sidebar.

Praying!

Cheri

HeartsMakeFamilies said...

Prayers to you and your family and extended family. My heart goes out to you during this trying time.

Karen said...

As a parent of a child with Down syndrome, I pray for this wonderful family. I know that Amden will have all the love he needs and he will be a tremendous blessing to everyone he meets. Love and prayers for you and your daughter's situation also.

LuLo Designs/Blue Eyed Tango said...

Amden and Jennifer as well and you and your husband for wisdom to guide these young adults. They have wonderful mentors in you both! Blessings and God's love.

LuLo Designs/Blue Eyed Tango said...

I was meaning to type that I'm praying for you to have wisdom!

Aine Willis said...

Andrea, my heart goes out to you. My sister and her husband have a little girl touched by Treacher Collins. You are so right ... Special Needs children are a blessing ... they do bring beauty into our lives. They do teach us more of God's love than we can ever imagine. God bless your family as you cope with this diagnosis. Also, your daughter in law as she goes through this time of grieving over her father. I am so sorry you are hurting.

Chubskulit Rose said...

I am sorry for responding so late Andrea. Our internet connection is going on and off these days. I understand how stressful it is for the family about Amden's situation. Before my son was born, the doctor recommended me to a specialist because they suspected that he could have a down syndrome and they wanted me to go through Amnio procedure but my husband and I are firm believer and We held strong to our faith in Him. I did not submit to the said Amnio but now our son is healthy and normal. Doctors can be wrong sometimes. Will continue praying for your nephew!

Rose

LauraLee Shaw said...

Father, overwhelm this family with Your perfect peace and presence. Surround them with Your people to pray, to love, to help and to pray some more. In Your name, Amen.

SmilingSally said...

Blessings, Andrea.

Jenny @ flutterbyechronicles said...

Praying for them.

quietspirit said...

Please know that God is with you and your family as you and they face these times.