Zion is a warrior. She spent nine months in the womb and nine months on this earth, bravely facing surgeries and obstacles that would have challenged anyone. Despite her complicated medical condition, including a major heart surgery for a birth defect, Zion defied the odds and survived longer than the doctors ever expected. When she finally came home, she needed far less support than anyone thought she would. She was happy, pain free, and filled our days with her beautiful smiles and laughter.

Zion’s personality brought so much light, laughter, and joy to the nursing staff and to our family. She was incredibly expressive and so sweet, saying a whole lot with no full words—just sounds and smiles. She had a smile and laugh that would light up a whole town. Her name means Holy place, and that’s exactly what people would feel in the room when they came into her presence—the presence of God. In her short time, she changed the way the hospital sees children with certain medical conditions, showing that not every child is the same. Some are built different, and many have the strength of God within them.

Then, in a way none of us could have prepared for, Zion suddenly passed away at home from cardiac arrest after surviving her heart surgery. She was so peaceful the whole time, never showing a sign of distress—she simply went in her sleep. We miss her deeply. In her short time with us, Zion touched the lives of so many, from the hospital staff who cared for her to every member of our family. Even after she passed, she looked like an angel.

We are now facing the difficult task of saying goodbye. The support from this fundraiser will help us cover funeral and memorial arrangements, and provide comfort as we grieve. Thank you. We are grateful for your help in celebrating Zion’s life and sending her off the right way.