My beautiful cousin Jen, and her precious husband Rob, are soon to be parents to a little girl.  I've watched Jen with children in various settings over the years, and then as an aunt to three nieces who adore her.  I can't imagine that anyone is more cut out to be a mother; having a family has truly been her heart's desire for some time.  At the age of 38, we were ecstatic to find out that God blessed her with a positive pregnancy test!  We can't understand why a woman so equipped for the task and ready to love a child had to wait years to become pregnant.  As is the case in many situations beyond our understanding, we just have to trust that God's timing is perfect.  
Regretfully, Jen has been faced with recent challenges to her pregnancy.  At 20 weeks, her body has started to dilate because her soft cervix doesn't seem to be able to hold the baby.  She has undergone surgery to stitch her cervix, which the doctor thinks will give her up to 7 more weeks without labor.  After this time, we pray that bed rest will continue to delay labor and allow the baby to grow.  We confidently put this situation in God's hands knowing that He hears our prayers and will comfort our family.  
This situation does bring undesirable and unexpected financial strain.  Not only are there medical costs to consider, but also lost wages from Jen's inability to work while she focuses on her and her baby's health.  I ask you to prayerfully consider contributing to this cause in order to alleviate undue stress during this difficult time for Jen and Rob.  The Bible says "...all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be passionate, and humble (1 Peter 3:8)."  If you feel called to make a love offering to the Chandlers, please do so here.  May God bless you for your thoughts, prayers and support.