After I started writing this blog, I thought about the day when I would read all my entries to Stephanie, and I would take such joy in showing her the love I have for her. I know she felt loved immensely by me, and I certainly felt loved so much by her. But I was excited to tell her how I was showing the world. And then you all started commenting and expressing your love for me and so much for her and our kids. Many of you don’t know us and have never met us, and I was so excited to read all of that to her.
I won’t get the chance to hear her response. The results came back and she showed no response to any stimuli. She also has been having anoxic myoclonus, which are muscle spasms reminiscent of seizures, but they happen because the higher brain functions aren’t available to control the spasms our bodies naturally want to do. It basically means the abilities of the top of her brain aren’t available, and that’s detrimental.
I’m still going to read to her. I’m going to read every post and every comment, until we have to decide what happens next. If you have any special memories of her you would like to share, please comment here, and she’ll get to hear them (and so will I, which I will appreciate).
A miracle is still forthcoming. God can still heal her body. I have no doubt about that. But, if that’s not the miracle He has in store, than it’s going to be some other miracle like nothing anyone has ever seen before. I know it in my soul. Thank you all again for your prayers and encouragement. This is not the end of my posts, but I understand if you get off the bus here.
Brad,
I met you today when I came to visit with Nancy. Stephanie and all of you have been in my thoughts and prayers ever since I spoke with Nancy on Monday morning. I have been so heavy hearted for all of you. You are a true man of God, living the test of faith. I believe that it’s never too late for a miracle. I have just shared your story with my friends, so many more will be praying. May God but His loving arms around you and comfort you during this time and in the days ahead. My prayers will continue.
Brad,
I don’t know if we ever met, but I am a cousin of Stephanie’s dad, Bill. Steph’s grandma, Mary Ann, and my dad are brother and sister. I have been following your blog and have been praying for you and Stephanie. I remember Stephanie as a little girl. We would come in from Michigan for the holidays and would always get together at Aunt Mary Ann’s.
Miracles do happen, and we will continue to pray they do. I admire your courage and strength at this time. Know that we will be thinking about you and Stephanie and your precious babies every day.
The Amrhein’s
Brad, a homeschooling friend shared about Stephanie – I am keeping all of you in my prayers.
Hanging out at the W. 54th house before life had real responsibilities like marriage, kids, and career. Playing cards through the wee hours of the night. I no longer eat at Applebees because we ate there way too much back then. Thank you for loving Brad and making him so happy.
We are lifting her up in prayer and your family. I don’t know your wife well, I just remember the times I saw her in the office at church- always smiling always cheerful.
Don’t hope God does a miracle, expect Him to do no less. We love you guys in Christ and are at the throne for her behalf.
Ryan and Dawn Kraidich- written by Dawn
Brad and Stephanie –
When Brad started at IAC it was weeks to his wedding, and his excitement was obvious even through his reserved nature.
Through the years at IAC and into our move at AG, we were blessed with Stephanie’s baking, shared in the joy of the birth of Brady (Oh, I remember the anxiety of a diaper cake gift, you so talented – would it look chinsey?), mourned with you when you lost your baby, anxiously waited for Halle’s safe arrival and rejoiced when the day came.
Steph – you felt like an old friend with the first conversation. So attentive to each person you spoke to, so proud of your family, so beautiful and vibrant.
And you shared your love constantly with Brads work families through your baking, your leftovers. I recall a birthday party with all miniatures and we reaped the benefits of the “extras”.
Your care and love for Brady and Halle is visible at every turn, and i’ve enjoyed seeing their pictures on your profile.
As important as anything – I saw so clearly the love you have for Brad – always concerned with his well being, always sharing a cute story of you together. A trip to the airport when Brad and I went to Kansas city for work – excitement of trips you were going on together. And we get to the airport and Brad pulls out a LARGE Tupperware container of decorated sugar cookies. The only thing better than the smile on his face was the smile on mine when he shared :). I’m certain the cookies rang out to him – but no doubt the love notes you dropped into his bag were sweeter than any bakery you ever made.
Stephanie, I’m sure your only worries right now are for Brad’s well being and your babies. I know that your family, church family and friends will no doubt take care of them all as best they possibly can. I know it will never be quite the same as what you can provide. Please know that his work families (IAC and AGI) will be there for Brad and Brady and Halle in every way we know how.
Your courage and bravery over the time I have known you both is inspiring and I hope I can learn something from this experience.
In the meantime, Stephanie I will pray for your miracle and will do my best to be a good friend to you both.
And I will do my best to do justice to your Tiramisu cupcakes. I think you would make them for your work family, so I’ll do it for you this time and hope I can come close to your perfection. Seriously, we used to grab some early and stash them away so as not to lose an opportunity…) I’m grateful that your selflessness extended to recipe sharing.
And Brad – as for this getting off the bus, you have a fleet of riders with you – and we aren’t getting off. There is no other way to say this friend – YOU ARE AMAZING.
We are here for you both – just ask for what you need.
With continued hope and prayer and love for you both….
-Karen
We love you both and you are constantly in our prayers! There are so many memories and moments that we could not possibly post them all!
Still praying! May you know God is there right side your side! I can’t help but think of this song as you go through this storm!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGPS8sa-bRQ&feature=related
Prayers for healing, peace and comfort!
Julie
We met on a parenting website when we were pregnant with our sons. They are just days apart in age. Over the years we went onto exchanging recipes, parenting tips, marriage, exchanging christmas cards, discussing hobbies and daily life and even talk of one day getting the boys together to meet as we really don’t live that far apart geographically. The last time I had planed a day trip to Ohio it fell through. Stephanie has always been so thoughtful and supportive to me and I just adore her. She truly is a precious gift and I am quite honored to have her as a friend.
Becki Stevenson – Butler, PA
Brad,
I don’t know if you remember me but I was a bridesmaid in Kelly’s wedding. I have been kept up to date on you and your family through the years as Kelly and I are still best friends. There is one thing that stands out in my mind about Stephanie (through the stories Kelly has shared with me) and that is what an amazingly godly mother she was to your children. I have 4 boys and if I can be half of the mother that she has been to Brady and Halle then I know that my children will benefit greatly. Please know that I am lifting you and your family up daily to HIM and will continue to in the days that follow. May you find rest in the shadow of His wings during this time. And if I may share my favorite scripture with you, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us” Romans 8:18. I share with you in that God has a great plan and His glory will be revealed in this situation as it has in so many areas of yours and Stephanie’s lives.
On His Behalf,
Kimberly
Holding you all close in thought and prayer. My heart is breaking for you and your family. I, too, however still believe in that miracle!
One of my favorite memories of Stephanie is when she was working at the church and would put together the binders for the worship team. We’d leave each other notes on post-its and I always looked forward to seeing what she would leave for me. It was all very silly fun, and I always loved thinking about how she must be laughing at my crazy notes! I don’t think we ever talked about it in person, but I hope she enjoyed it as much as I did. HUGS to her, you, Brady and Halle.
Love and prayers~
The Comb Family
Brad, When we first heard about Stephanie and what had happened to her I called my husband who is working in Denver right now. After telling him he said is that the girl who was in the office who always had a beautiful smile on her face? I said yes!! And it is true, When Stephanie would come into a room she would light it up with her smile and her always cheerful disposition. That is what I remember the most about her. Our hearts and our prayers go out to you tonight! We Love you Stephanie!
Brad,
Words cannot even begin to express my feelings of sadness. I had the honor of working with Stephanie at Britton-Gallagher and the pleasure of remaining friends with her after she left. I cannot tell you how many times she and I would discuss her choice to leave the 9-5 routine and devote her time to being a full-time homemaker. You, Brady and Halle are her world. I love that about her.
Stephanie and I would talk endlessly about baking, cooking, entertaining. Even though there is almost a 25 year difference in our ages, we always seemed to click — I’m pretty sure dear, sweet Steph clicked with everyone! — you couldn’t NOT click with her! :) We would have great conversations, given our common interest, at one point, even discussed the idea of catering together. I remember us sitting at Pannera’s having lunch, brainstorming about how fun it would be to start a catering company!
I was sooooo excited for her when she started posting the pictures of her “dream kitchen” makeover. I was bursting with excitement for her because I knew how much that meant to her. We would talk about everything — appliances, flooring, backsplash, the cabinets. I couldn’t wait to see the finished product! You and your Dad have done an amazing job. I know that it was built with lots of love. That will always be a special room in your home, I’m sure.
Stephanie is such a sweet, caring, talented woman that I shall never, ever forget. Know that I am praying like I have never prayed before for Steph, you, your adorable children and the rest of your family.
The bus line does not end here my friend. We are all in it for the long ride.
With a heavy heart,
Ruta
Steph,
I haven’t talked to you in a long time I don’t like that the most recent thing we shared was our analysis of 500 Days of Summer over facebook. I wish it were a conversation where I told you these things…
You are dear to me, you have shaped so much of my faith and who I am. I remember driving over to the church right after school to come hang out in your office and talk about boys and bibles all the time. You and I could always talk about anything and everything for hours. I love that you have such a warm heart but also such a sharp intellect. I loved the hours we spent critiquing, analyzing, and reveling in the mysteries of this world.
You blessed me so much as a high school leader, as a personal mentor, and as a friend. I love how you not only listen to me but you share with me. I often live by your example because to me you are the most ideal type of woman, sugar and spice.
I know I have been living in other states ever since I sang in your wedding or saw your baby boy, but it gives me such a sense of closeness and deep joy when I think about the amazing wife and mama I know you are but have been too far away to see.
I love you a lot Steph and I am so thankful that the impact you have on my life is strong and thriving, it is something that can never be taken away.
I am sending love and strength to you and your famimly through my prayers.
P.S. I still watch Lord of the Rings all the time :)
Brad,
I am a friend of Anna Heinz, and I have been reading your blog since she posted it on Monday. I had the pleasure of meeting you, Stephanie and the kids at Noah’s first birthday party back in March. I enjoyed talking to her, the little bit I did. Both our girls are the same age.
There are no words that I can write that will take your pain away or express my deepest condolence. Just know, I am and have been in constant prayer for you and your family. I have wept many tears for you and especially your children. I trust God will use this for His glory in some way, shape or form. If nothing else, you have been such an example to SO many people reading, Christians and nonChristians. You have shown us the proper way to endure trials, and further yet, praise God through them. I know God can heal Stephanie, no questioning that, and I will continue to pray for that miracle and pray for rest, peace, understanding and wisdom for you.
God bless.
Oh the baked goods, how delicious! Brad always sent out emails to hurry over for a yummy treat. I’ve even got some recipes sent to me. I’ll never forgot not too long ago when I missed an email to come on over for chocolate chip brownie cookies :) Too bad I was not at my desk and didn’t get any. Walking out that day I joked to you how disappointed I was that I never got one. The next day after returning from a meeting, wrapped neatly in saran wrap was my own special square. Written on a post-it note “because you missed out yesterday”. I shared that note with several people because I thought it was so sweet! Though I don’t personally know Stephanie, I can say with confidence that the Luczywo family is so very special.
Stephanie,
You are one of the sweetest people I know. I know we only met up a few times at Kelly’s house but each time I thought you were so kind and genuine. You make awesome hairbows and headbands that my girls wear almost daily! I am praying for you and your family daily. I am so sorry this is happening to you.
God bless,
Kristy
Dear Brad & Stephanie,
We will not stop praying and we know that God is ever-present, and we pray that you both will experience Him in ways you could never have imagined. We have so many special memories of Stephanie, we love how you would always smile and I am sure that you didn’t always feel like it, but we never would have known. You continued to send notes of encouragement and love to us after Pat’s death, they always seemed to come when we needed them most. I think Steph you were very aware of the Holy Spirits promptings to reach out and love people. Thank you for taking the time, it blessed us so. We will be there for you and your family, and we keep our eyes on the one who is ever-present with us. We love you all so very much. In His grip, Terry & Sue
Still praying for a miracle for you and Stephanie! I miss seeing her sweet smile at PHBC and have so enjoyed reconnecting with her on facebook, seeing pictures of your beautiful kids and I will think of her every time my daughter wears her specially made hairbow! I keep reminding God that we need Stephanie here on earth for a whole lot longer!! I hope His plan is the same as ours but He does know best and I am inspired by your faith and trust, Brad. Thank you for sharing this difficult journey with all of us. I tagged you in a note on my page with the words to a song I heard to day. It brought tears to my eyes as it made me think of you and your precious family!
Stephanie has always been like the wattage of the sun when I think of her and the love and goodness in her heart and soul. Her beauty… creativity… she just shines wherever she goes and whatever she does. I’ve never known anyone like her. When we reconnected after losing touch for awhile, it was such a blessing to be able to share with her since our kids are the same age. It was so awesome to see her at my 40th party with little Halle (what a sweetie!). Brad, we are definitely not getting off the bus and are continuing to pray and ride along. We wait expectantly for a miracle!
Brad,
I’m not getting off the bus. We are with you in spirit and in prayer.
Dear Brad and Stephanie,
We are friends of Scott and Sarah’s in Charlotte. We have been praying for you since Scott first told us they were coming to be with you. We have two little ones – also 3 and 1. A hundred times a day I look at them, and pray for Brady and Halle. I pray a miracle for Stephanie and strength for you, Brad. Our hearts are breaking over what your going through.
Holding on to hope,
Brian and Jen Catoe
Brad, I am a friend of Scott’s from Malone & although I have never met your family, my continued thoughts & prayers are with you, Stephanie, and your daughters. You have such strength in the Lord during trials such as this, & your testimony has touched many (including myself). You are trusting in God alone, not that you know the outcome of your situation, but you are trusting God alone to carry out His plan for Stephanie & for your family. The God of the universe cares about Stephanie & your family & is with you always. Your story has touched me in such a way, that I can honestly say I have never prayed for someone I have never met as much as I have prayed for Stephanie since knowing about her seizures. God is drawing His people closer to Him, of that, I am sure. Continued prayers, Keep the faith.
Dear Brad,
I will continue to read your blog and will continue to lift you all up in prayer.
I have so many fond memories of Stephanie from my high school years… we did so many things together. I remember driving around all of Greater Cleveland just trying to find Triple Thick Shakes at McDonalds when they first came out… Me, Steph and Kristin… everywhere we went, there were none! I don’t even remember if we found a store that wasn’t out… all I remember is the great fun that we had!
I also was so blessed to go to Brazil, where we all roomed in a converted workshop that smelled like rotten bananas for two weeks. We tried chicken heart for the first time together in an ethnic Brazilian steakhouse (and hated it!… or at least I did!)
She introduced me to Hollo’s Papercraft, baked amazing brownies and was always such a sweet friend. She greatly influenced the woman that I am today. Although I haven’t talked with her for awhile, she will always hold a special place in my heart.
Your family is in my prayers… I am still holding out for a miracle. Nothing is impossible for our great and wonderful God!
Love,
Alexandria B. Crites Scott
I do not know you or your family. I am Aunt to Kimbely Gallagher by marriage. She was requesting prayers for Stephanie, whick led me to your blog. I have never witnessed such strong and beautiful faith as I see in in you, Brad. May God keep his shinning light around Stephanie and your family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you all.
I first met Stephanie on our mom’s board, Storknet. We were both on the babies 2007 board as Brady is the same age as my Elizabeth. Later, Stephanie and I became friends on facebook. Stephanie helped me get started in making bows for my little girls by showing me some places to get instructions. None of mine ever turned out as beautiful as hers. I was so inspired and so impressed by Stephanie as a mom and wife. She was an amazing cook and obviously loved her family, especially her children so very much. Although I never met her in real life, I considered her a friend and will miss her. I am so sad and heartbroken by this. There really are no words. I am very very sorry that you and the kids are going through this. Although I don’t live close, please let me know if there is anything you all need.
Brad, We went to high school together and I just wanted to let you know that your posts have touched my heart. Your wife seems like an amazing woman. How lucky you two are to have each other. I have mentioned to my family about your family and we are uplifting you all in our prayers during this difficult time. May God wrap his arms around you all.
– Alison
brad god bless you guys. i loved going to church with you and i loved working with stephanie at arabica. she’s always been a sweet and godly lady. if god doesn’t spare you guys from taking her; the miracle may be that your prayers and acceptance of his will would be a blessing to everyone who hears about it. i hope god gives you all the peace and comfort he can, and if he does take her, we should all be thankfull for the blessings she’ll receive with him. holy crap my heart’s broken….
I am so sincerely sorry :-( I have been praying daily for you and Stephanie and the kids. I met her for the first time when Kelly brought her to a scrapbooking party. She had beautiful pages and was so sweet and enjoyable to chat with for hours while we worked. My heart breaks for you. We will continue to pray.
(((Hugs)))to all of your family and extended family.
Courtney
Brad,
I am another Storknet sister. I want you to know that a whole website of women has been moved by Stephanie and what all of you are going through. Many of these women are women of faith and we have lifted you in prayer. We will continue to do so. I am not sure what God is up to, but may He be glorified. Yes, I believe in miracles, too.
Brad – I know we don’t know each other very well outside of being co-workers, but once I heard about your wife’s condition, I started thinking about you and your family and how awful and overwhelming this must all be. I am really saddened to read this last post. Like I’m sure everyone reading this was hoping for a miracle.
Whatever happens, know that people are all thinking about you and praying for your family. God bless and I hope you can find some peace and comfort in the coming days.
Brad, I am praying for God to give u strength and peace through this horrible nightmare. I have kept up with the blog once Todd posted it on facebook. Stay sting and focused on your kids and God , and he will take care of it all. You are showing an unbelievable amount of strength and know that this blog is planting seeds for the unchurched readers! I will continue to pray for u and your family. God bless!
Dan Winar
I knew Stephanie in high school (maybe even Jr. High?) and she found me on facebook a few years ago. I always thought she was one of the nicest and most beautiful people (inside and out) that I have ever met. I regret now that I didn’t write her more, but I have enjoyed reading all of her posts. As I expected, she became a wonderful wife and a loving mother to two beautiful children. I so enjoyed hearing about her experiences and I was always sad for her medical troubles. She definitely touched me and if God takes her I will truly miss her. Brad, I’m so sorry for all of this and I’m glad you have God in your life to turn to though this terrible time. I so admire the strength of your faith and both of you have been an example to me. I have been praying for all of you and I’ll continue to do so.
I have been following this since I found out. I have been praying for all of you and even when I wake up in the middle of the night. May God Bless all of you, Your love for each other just pours out in your words. My biggest memory of Stephanie is she baked the most wonderful cake for my parents 50th anniversay. And always remember all the goodies that always came to IAC. My thought are with all of you and always sending prayers.
I so wish I would have been more awake when Stephanie’s phone accidentally called me 5 times so we could have taken the time to catch up!! Stephanie was our Bible study leader when I was in high school and I never forgot the impact she had on me through her loving, genuine spirit. Every thing she did, she did straight from her heart. She always made home-made cards, gifts, food – just like it was nothing. She gave every person her full attention to let them know that they are truly cared for and understood. Stephanie is so beautiful in every sense of the word. She has so willingly been used by God and to me, she will forever remain the epitome of His love poured out through us.
I have just as much hope as you do, Brad. I feel like God isn’t ready to give up this battle yet!! You and Stephanie are constantly in my prayers and we’re all ready for God’s miracle to happen. Strength and blessings heaped upon you!!
In His Love,
Meredith
get off the bus are you kidding?? i just got on and this is the perfect time for a few more prayer warriors ( people you will never meet or know ) to keep you and stephanie in our thoughts and prayers. we all know God can do anything at anytime. anything / anytime !!!
in His mighty name,
dave
since Kelly shared your blog with me I have been following your story, and praying for you and Stephanie.
continuing to pray.
Continuing to pray for a miracle. So encouraged by the responses from believers all over the states who are praying. That’s what the Body of Christ does.
Brad,
My heart goes out to your entire family. I am so terribly sorry.
Many blessings.
Lea
I met both of you at Cuyahoga Valley. Brad, you were in my first small group and I believe that we met at your parents house. Stephanie, I remember meeting you and being impressed with your maturity and sincere joy. You always stood out from amongst a crowd. When I found out that you two were together, I thought ‘What in the heck is she doing settling with a guy like Brad?’ (Kidding, Brad!). I would see you two together in the foyer of CVC and smile softly to myself because I thought, if there was a couple the reflected God’s love it was you two. Your natural, effortless love for each other is inspiring to me. I hope Abbey and I can love each other like you two love each other.
Praying always for God’s greater glory, and joy beyond understanding. You give me renewed hope to “hold fast”, to “persevere”, to “run the race for the high calling of God in Christ Jesus”. I know God is “exceedingly and abundantly” able, and God has already and will continue to do a good work through you and your family. All our best we are sending in your direction,
Abby
I can see you both sitting on the left side of the sanctuary. So much in love, both with each other and God. We are lifting your family up and will continue to do so. We’ve asked others to lift you up as well, some you will never meet this side of heaven, but as your brothers and sisters in Christ they are on their knees praying for you at this time.
Stephanie,
Thank you so much for being my friend and mentor so many years ago. You helped shape me into the woman I am today and I am forever grateful to you for that and I pray that I can do the same for another young girl.
So many of my memories are from when I was in high school. I loved being in your Bible study, you loved us girls so much. There was nothing you wouldn’t do for us or wouldn’t share with us. I remember your love of the seasons and holidays and how you always had a card and little homemade craft for us, I still have many of them. It was a joy being your “administrative assistant” for the couple of years that I was. I looked forward to the afternoons I got to spend in the church office with you talking and laughing about life.
Going to Brazil was an experience of a lifetime and I am so thankful that you were on that trip, even though getting there was a miserable experience for you. Nobody else on that trip understood me like you did and it was an honor serving the Lord beside you and loving on those kids. I called you on my 17th birthday because I saw there was a JoDee Messina concert that night listed in the Friday section of the paper. It was a Friday night, but you at a moments notice went with me. It was such a fun evening and one I still tell people about. Switchfoot was playing a concert in Stubenville and I got to road trip out there with you and Brad, I thought it was sweet of you to let me tag along.
I wish that I had more spent more time recently with you, but moving away does that. I loved that you shared your life on facebook and I checked your page often for pictures and updates. It was evident how much you loved the Lord and your family. I pray that I can be as wonderful of a wife and mother as you are. I took your peanut butter brownie recipe that you had posted once. I want you know that all my friends in Columbus LOVE it and I’ve had a recent request to make it for an upcoming dinner. I will always think of you when I bake it and as I bake it I will pray for your family.
Thank you for loving me and being my friend.
Brad, I have been praying for you, Stephanie and your family since I read Clare Ring Smith’s post a few days ago. I went to the same Jr High and High School as Clare and was touched to tears by your warm, spiritual posts about your wife, God and your story. I will never understand what or how you feel, but I know what you are going through, I see it very often were I work, the neuroscience unit at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus. But I do know you are loved immensely by your friends and family, I see that in the posts that people have left and I know our heavenly Father is going to take care of you and your family. Take care, and peace be with you!
Memories of Stephanie…I don’t even know where to start. Stephanie was so instrumental in my life when I was in high school. She lead a girls’ small group that I was a part of. I remember so many nights sitting and talking about life, friends, guys, struggles, and how our faith guides it all. She was my friend, mentor and role model all in one. She taught me how to delight in God, how to pursue Him while single and how to honor Him in marriage. I am so thankful to God that He put Stephanie in my life. I love her so much.
Stephanie…the first time I really got to know you was when we carpooled to orlando for scott and sarah’s wedding. I had Kayley (4) and Cole (1). I remember we got pedicures and joked around about our ugly feet. We had some time to talk when everyone else was doing “wedding things”. The more we talked, the more we realized how similar our backgrounds were and we definitely clicked as friends that weekend. Through the years at family gatherings, you and I would inevitably end up with a cup of coffee, talking about everything. I will so miss you. I love you like my sister and I will cherish you in my heart forever <3 Kelly
Hi Stephanie,
I saw you on Tuesday, and I felt God’s warrior angels surrounding you. I’m imagining where your mind is right now, and I’m imagining peace. I bet your mind is doing some of your favorite things: You’re probably cooking, or crafting, or holding your children. And I bet you have some McDonald’s or Starbucks or whatever fancy coffee drink in your hand. And you might be about to eat a bowl of sugary cereal. Oh, but I bet you’re in a beautiful kitchen. Maybe watching the Duggars:)
My heart is breaking, Stephanie, but let me tell you one thing: I am not losing hope. No matter what. Hope does not disappoint. We need you here with us, and we know God hears our prayers, but we also know that we can’t see the forest because of the trees…We can’t see His big picture, but we can trust.
As so many people have said, when I think of you, I think of you with your children. They are your life. And wow did I love sharing my pregnancy, delivery, and the first 5 months of Logan’s life so far with you! We shared so many experiences, and you give THE BEST advice. I have a lot of emails from you when you encouraged me that I could be a successful working mom, that I would finally lose the pregnancy weight, that it was normal for my c-section scar to hurt for a long time…emails where you tell me how much you love Logan’s smiles. Emails where you sent special messages just to ask how I was doing. When I went back to work, you emailed me to let me know that you prayed for me EVERY DAY at lunchtime! I can’t tell you how much that means. Did I ever tell you? Did I ever tell you how much you mean to me? Did I ever tell you how I feel that we are connected? I did. I read an email from Brad earlier today and he said that you felt we were kindred spirits. My heart melted at that b/c I felt it too! I still do. It’s not over.
So, when I think of you, I think of you with your kids. And you know what? Even if you are forced to temporarily leave Brady and Halle in the blessed hands of your husband and your family (and us!), you’ll still be taking care of your babies. I remember you telling me that you believe the babies you lost through miscarriage are in heaven waiting for you. I’m picturing you rocking them, Stephanie, and holding them, and getting to know them. And while we want you here, we know that you will be so very happy there, whenever it is time for you to go, be that soon or, as God’s miracle can work, many years from now. I wonder what you will name them. I bet they’ll be the best dressed kids around!
I’m believing in the miracle, Stephanie, and I’m comforted knowing that God has already worked miracles through this situation. Have you heard how many people are hearing the message of salvation? Have you heard how many people are renewed in their prayer lives?
You are a beautiful woman, and you make all of us better when you are around. I remember that you like to pray using scripture…I love that. And I’ve prayed scripture over you all week long. God’s word is powerful, and you know that. We are pleading for God’s mercy, Stephanie. We are pleading on your behalf! We love you. We love you. We love you. I love you.
Aren’t you proud of Brad? You always talked about your beautiful marriage. I remember you telling me that you even love his snoring! I initially didn’t believe you, but then I got to know you and realized you meant that! You are honest about your marriage, and you know that you have absolute true love despite any bumps in the road. Your heart must be bursting with pride right now as you realize how amazing he is and how he is leaning on Christ and receiving His supernatural power. Your children are in good hands, no matter what.
You are encouraging beyond words. Your encouragement is always so sincere, and I will treasure the emails I have from you forever and ever. I look forward to receiving even more.
I love you, and I pray for your rest and recovery in Jesus’ arms.
Love,
Leslie
Brad,
I don’t think we ever met. I am a cousin to Stephanie’s dad. My dad and her grandma are brother and sister. I live in Michigan. I have read your blog since the beginning and will continue to do so. You are an amazing man with a lot of strength and love. Stephanie’s was so lucky to find you.
My memories of Stephanie are mostly from Christmas time a long time ago. My family would spend Christmas Eve with the Hnat’s. I remember when Stephanie was just a baby and then how we got to watch her grow. We used to play together as I am not that much older than her.
I am sorry that over the years we grew apart. Distance tends to do that. Please note that my prayers have and will continue for Stephanie, you, Brady, Halle and family.
Love,
Denise
Brad,
I think you are going to need a bigger bus as you have many, many riders that want to travel this journey of faith with you. Miracles come in many forms and I hope that you and Stephanie receive your own special miracle made just for the two of you. All of your family members both at work and home are there to support you on this bus ride.
Stephanie was a very influential person during my youth group years. 1 Timothy 4:12 “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.” Stephanie was all those things to me. She never made me feel like I was less of a person, or less of a person because I was just a teen. She totally set an awesome example of what a Christian woman should be. Thanks Stephanie.
Brad,
I have only heard about you and your blog tonight through a friend. Thank you for inspiring all of us to dig deep into our faith.
If you are going to read these out loud to your precious little girl, please read this from a book I’ve read my daughter since she was born.
I love you forever, I like you for always. As long as I’m living, my baby you’ll be. (I made up a little tune and sing it to my little girl)
I pray that the Lord performs a miracle in her life and your situation. I also pray that regardless of God’s outcome, that this faith and peace of yours only grows through this trial.
In the meantime, I will be praying. And I just got on the bus.
~Clara