Although we are not family by blood, we are "family" by heart.  I have had the honor of being a part of Christopher's life from the time he was just a few hours old.  He is now a grown man with a wife and 3 very young boys.  The love of his life, Melissa, suffered a very serious, life-threatening event yesterday.  She suffered a stroke at the young age of 30.  Although she is improving, she remains hospitalized at the hands of multiple specialists.  Melissa and her precious young family will have a long road of healing ahead of them. 

The youngest member of the family, Ezra, is only 4 weeks old.  Chris took time from work to be with Melissa and the boys to bond at the time of Ezra's birth.  Unfortunately, there are no remaining resources for him to take additional time off during this crisis.  His presence is greatly needed to be at Melissa's bedside and to care for their boys.  Of course their families and friends will support them in any way they can.  However, I know Chris well, being the responsible, amazing father and husband that he is, I fear that he will worry about how to support his family financially, and be there for them as well.

Perhaps if each of us contributed, even a small amount, we could lift a huge burden from the shoulders of this most deserving family.

May we all find peace in remembering that our father God is holding Melissa in the palm of his hand. 

With warmth and gratitude,
Lori Perry