You probably remember Pattie that I posted about last week with her grandkids. You know…the absolutely darling kids with her!

When I heard Pattie was diagnosed with Breast Cancer, I was taken back to the day when I found out my little sister, Emily, was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma (a childhood cancer) at only 8 years old. I re-lived a lot of those memories for a week or so, and my heart just broke for Pattie’s family because I know all those feelings they’re experiencing. What my family and I went through those 2 1/2 years was tough and a huge test of our faith. So many people have asked me what got me through that time. # 1 was my faith in the Lord, that he was going to take care of everything and he was where I’d find my comfort, strength, and peace. #2 was my sister Emily. Even though she was the one that spent all the nights in the hospital, had numerous surgeries, several rounds of chemo, several treatments of radiation, took countless pills each day…SHE WAS MY STRENGTH. It blew me away how much faith an 8 year old could have in the Lord. She was never scared, and she always had a smile on her face and kept the family laughing, even up to those moments before she passed away. When Emily knew she didn’t have much time left she told my family, “Jesus and I will be waiting for you in heaven.” Hearing her say that gave me so much peace. She knew God was going to take care of her. Losing a sister is not easy by any means, but I’ve held onto that phrase she told us and it makes me so excited to see her in heaven someday.

All this to say, I really felt God put it on my heart to help out Pattie and her family. I find it so easy to connect to families that are going through what I’ve been through, and I count that as a blessing. So here’s a little way for my to give to Pattie’s family using the gifts God has so graciously given me since she won’t be able to work during all of her treatment.

Please pass this on to all your friends and family, and keep Pattie and her family in your prayers. Thanks so much!