When Shawna Amick learned that her unborn daughter Sarah had Down syndrome, a serious heart defect, and other genetic abnormalities, she begged God for healing. After Sarah was born, she was immediately taken to the neonatal intensive care unit, where her family waited anxiously as doctors determined the safest time for open-heart surgery. At six weeks old, Sarah was prepared for surgery. Just hours before the procedure, a nurse disconnected her from life support long enough for Shawna to hold her daughter skin to skin for the first time. Unsure whether she would ever have another opportunity, Shawna treasured that deeply emotional moment. Now, 21 years later, she can look back on a journey filled with medical, emotional, financial, and relational challenges. Through every difficulty, Jesus Christ has been the family’s constant source of strength and hope. Shawna explains that Jesus has done more than carry them through hard seasons—he has made their lives beautiful. Drawing on Isaiah 41:10, she encourages anyone facing a frightening or seemingly hopeless situation to call upon Jesus, trust his faithfulness, and wait expectantly for him to work. You can find more information about Joni and Friends at www.joniandfriends.org.
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