UPDATE (10/31): Message from Alyssa's Dad, Tim

"I just wanted to let you know that our daughter, Alyssa, gave birth to our little Grandson Asher Gabriel Cook. But she was only 23 weeks along. It all happened very fast. At first he was stable but after about a day and a half he started to decline.

At 4:55pm, Oct 31, his time on the West Coast of Canada, he slipped into the arms of Jesus. Alyssa and Samuel were able to hold and cuddle him for a couple hours before he slipped away.

I was not able to be with them, as I am in Spain for meetings, but Kathy was able to be there. In God's Grace I was able to walk with them by messaging and pictures till shortly after Asher passed away when my internet cut out.

This has been a painful journey, yet we have so sensed our Lord's presence! Samuel and Alyssa have kept their eyes on Jesus, but hard to describe the pain of watching your son slip away while in your arms. They had two very precious days together.

I long to be with them, and would so appreciate you holding us all up in prayer.

Your Brother,

Tim:

*Needs now may include: funeral arrangements, meals, housing payment, compensation for missing work for both Alyssa and Samuel, gas, and many unexpected needs.

Dear friends and family,

On October 29th, Alyssa Cook (Tim and Kathy Whatley’s daughter) went to the hospital in Vancouver due to some complications with her pregnancy (23 weeks along).

The intention was to be monitored for a time.

However, God had different plans for this sweet baby.

Samuel (Darren and Mary Cook’s son) and Alyssa welcomed their son, Asher Gabriel Cook at 10:00 pm last night weighing 1.46 pounds.

He is stable and well cared for. Alyssa is also doing well. There is no doubt some pretty big concerns amidst the joy. Please be praying for the family, that they will experience God's peace at this time.

Needs may include: meals, housing payment, compensation for missing work for both Alyssa and Samuel, gas, many many baby needs (diapers, stroller, clothes, bassinet, etc), and more

May we rally around this young couple as they begin this journey of growth for baby Asher and healing for Alyssa.

Love, her family