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 & Stephanie,
We do not know you, but most definitely feel as if we do. My family heard of your situation from multiple family friends we have that you attend church with. We were asked to include you in prayer. I am the oldest of six kids and am currently homeschooling the younger ones. Each morning we get together and pray for those in need and your family was added to our prayer board this morning. As our mom was showing the younger children your family picture (so they could see who they were praying for) I noticed your last name and realized that I worked with who I believe to be your brother, Todd, for three years. What a small world it is. We are all so sorry to hear of what you’re going through and will be praying for God’s miracle with Stephanie’s recovery as well as peace and comfort for you all. Brad, your blog has been such an inspiration to many of us already. Your story offers much hope and is a blessing to others. Many of us have a lot to learn from you in regards to faith. All our thoughts, prayers, and blessings to the four of you.
The Humberson/Lance Family
Forgive me – I read the post wrong, I thought it was your child not your wife. Forgive the mistake. I am still praying!
I remember sitting with Stephanie for hours on end at Friendly’s just chatting and sharing our lives and our minds with each other. She was always such a wonderful listener and so gracious and encouraging. And when she would share her heart, it was always to be a wife and mommy. I am eternally grateful to God that she had the chance to be those things and do them so magnificently.
I will always recall with joy the image of Amy and Stephanie “bumping bellies” at a family baby shower I hosted for Amy. Probably the boys’ first introduction. Both moms – to- be were filled with anticipation and energy…a joy that rivaled any in the world. I was so blessed to witness this event….and to supply the moms with their craving for Godiva pumpkin truffles!
– All my love, Aunt Margaret
Stephanie…I’m not sure how it’s possible for facebook to connect you so closely with someone who you’ve only been face to face with maybe 7 times in life, but I’ve always felt a kindred spirit with you. Ever since we became facebook friends, I felt that all your posts echoed everything I had similar interests in–cooking, faith, and parenting.
When we were pregnant with our first boys, I remember when we went to the “My girlfriend’s kitchen” to stock up on some meals. (I think I was surprised that someone with your skill would stoop to something like that!) I remember your struggle with your miscarriage between Brady and Halle–and the pain we shared with that. Then your beautiful little girl Halle came and another beautiful thing happened–you started making hairbows!! Boy. I am so glad you did. You know how I feel about your creations (I’m still waiting for my OSU and brown boutique bow!! :))
I always told Kory how impressed I was at you as a homemaker and wife. Kelly and I used to call you “Martha Stewart on steroids”…probably b/c we were really just jealous. :) You do EVERYTHING awesome!
This blog is a testimony of your life. Of your faith. And of your love for your family. Brad is lucky to have you. And you are lucky to have Brad.
Your whole family means the world to Kory and I. We love all of you dearly and stand here in support.
Brad and Stephanie- Sunday I run my first half-marathon. I’m dedicating this run to your lives. To the race you have set before you.
1 Corinthians 9:24 says ..”Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.”
When I’m pushing through on those final miles–with my body ready to give out, I’ll be thinking of and praying with your family and will finish strong reaching for that prize because that is how you are finishing your race. Strong and with your prize–our Jesus–so close.
Kory, Clare, Sam & Lila
Courtney from the Good Morning Girls told me about Stephanie. I’m heartbroken while at the same time SO thankful she has such a Godly and loving husband. My prayers will be going up for you, for Stephanie, and for your precious children. I have a sudden history of seizures myself, so this is particularly heavy on my heart tonight.
Blessings,
Toni
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, Brad. I, too, have never met Stephanie in real life. I met her on a parenting board back in 2006, when we were both pregnant with our first child. My second child is not much younger than your second. I could tell off the bat that she was a fabulous woman. I remember posting a photo of the bedding we chose for our crib, and she had responded saying it was one of her choices, but that you both had decided to go with the Noah’s Ark theme, which was part of a lesson my Bible Study group had yesterday, the day I first found out what had happened to Stephanie. I also shared Stephanie’s story, and added her to our prayer list. Reading through your posts have been inspiring in so many ways. The absolute faith you both have in God inspires me to get closer to Him. The stories of Stephanie being a phenomenal mother, and the love that she has instilled in your children makes me question if I am doing everything I can be doing to show my kids my love. Those are legacies worth leaving behind.
God bless you, Stephanie, and your entire family.
Not getting off the bus yet, and continuing to pray for you all.
Heather.
I don’t know you or Stephanie, but a friend passed along your blog to me. I lost my 25 year old husband to cancer in February. Though our circumstances differ…from someone who has “been there”, I can say this – God is still GOOD! He is with you in every moment, in every breath you take, in every tough decision, in every painful piece of news, in every up and in every down – He is there. He is holding on to you, He is holding on to your wife, He is holding on to your kids and He will NEVER LET GO.
I am praying for you! Praying you get your miracle, and praying for strength and peace no matter what.
Brad,
It has been a very long time since our lives touched, but I was your youth pastor’s wife when you were in Junior High. Although I never met Stephanie, from the many descriptions of her interests etc, I think we would be kindred spirits.
I am so touched by your honesty Brad, and your faith through this journey. When we have the body of Christ to see us through the hardest storms on our way, we have an unbelievable treasure. The following are words to an old simple chorus that the Lord gave me when going through the hardest time of my life. Maybe they will bless you just a bit. “The Lord knows the way through the wilderness, all I have to do is follow. Strength for today is mine always, and all you need for tomorrow. The Lord knows the way through the wilderness, all I have to do is follow. ” He loves you and Stephanie more than any of us can imagine. On this side of heaven we see so dimly. He will do exceedingly, abundantly, more than we can ask or imagine. As you say, how that looks…is up to Him. I pray for miracles. I pray for peace. I pray for comfort.
With prayers, Beckie (and much love to your parents and siblings as well, who are battling with you I am certain!)
Brad and Stephanie,
We remember as if it were yesterday the day that Stephanie came over to our home with a meal after the birth of our first child. Stephanie, I had met you only once before, yet you so lovingly offered to make a meal during that time of transition for us. You came with Brady, and not only did you bring a meal, but you brought some beautiful thank you cards that you had made, as well as an adorable gift for our son! We were amazed at your thoughtfulness and your creativity. And you made us feel as if you had all the time in the world to sit and talk and to just be available. As a mom, I know how challenging that can be, yet it seemed effortless to you. I also remember your lovingkindness and patience with Brady. He was almost two at the time, and he was enjoying pulling all of your credit cards out of your wallet and throwing them onto the floor. You just patiently allowed him to keep himself occupied and then picked them up, put them back, and let him start again. My son is two now and I realize that you were teaching me something without even knowing it; about grace and patience and selflessness. My husband and I both agree that you stood out, Stephanie. You touched us with your love in that hour that we were able to spend with you; we can’t imagine how much those who were able to truly know you were impacted by your ability to love and give beyond measure. This world needs people like you to be our example. And we will all keep praying and praying for a miracle. You are a precious, precious child of God, and we know that if He does call you home, you have run the race with endurance, and you have a “Well done, My good and faithful servant” coming your way. For our sake, may that “Well done” be many years away.
Brad, thank you for sharing your journey with us. We have learned so much from you, too… your courage, wisdom, faith and hope in Him is a testimony to what real faith looks like. I thank God for giving you such grace in all this, and we will be praying that He will continue to hold you up as you continue to walk this path. For those precious babies, we know that God will take care of them, but can’t help but have an aching/breaking heart at what they, you and your family are enduring. May you all rest in His tender, loving arms.
With love,
The Zaccardelli Family
Brad, we have never met you or Stephanie, but a good friend of ours asked me to get the word out to our prayer team to pray for Stephanie and your family. I just want you to know that Stephanie and your family are constantly in our prayers. We love you all with the love of Christ. I know God is not finished yet. It is remarkable how many lives have been touched already. We will continue to pray and follow along.
Brad:
Because I am family and because I, too, have lost a spouse young, perhaps my take on this may be different than some. If you are reading along, please don’t judge me too harshly.
I believe down to my toes that our God is able to save Stephanie even now and even after — he raised Lazarus and Jairus’ daughter from the dead. While Stephanie lives, that is my prayer. But the human side of me sees a need to comfort a brother in Christ as he walks the road of man — one of the duties and challenges of being a Husband and Father — protector and spiritual leader. Brad, if you are reading these, this is for Stephanie.
Stephanie, dear sister, barring a miracle, the Lord seems to be calling you home much sooner than you would have liked. It’s something about God’s eternal perspective that I will never understand and don’t know how to reconcile. I trust there will be a time where the answers don’t matter to me because I will share His eternal perspective. Sister, go in peace because you KNOW where you will be. “To live is Christ, to die is gain — to be absent the body is to be present with the Lord”
We cry for you now as we anticipate in the flesh what is to come. But know that your well-chosen husband is able and will care for your babies. He is a true man. An honorable man — gifted with special tenderness that shines through in his writings. He can be as you would have been to your children if he must. He can love and nurture them and raise them the way you would have wanted. He is better for having known and had you and you left the world such precious gifts so far in your life.
Should the Lord heal you, we will dance with joy and shout it from the housetops,but should He call you home, we will cry for a time and yet still dance — because we know you will be with Jesus and we will see you again.
Dear Brad — do what you must. A wise person told me recently — especially for me — someone who doesn’t decide things easily to “seek peace”. I think that may be the wisest advice I’ve been given in a while. As you are forced to decide things, make the decision that brings YOU the most peace. If that means to read some more, then read. If that means to pray, then pray. If that means to wait, then wait. If that means to hope, then hope. If that means to let go, then let go. And if that means to give, then give. There is not a doubt in my mind that you will do honor to your beloved spouse. You already have done her honor for a lifetime.
Dearest Brad. I am so very sorry for the difficult road you must travel. I pray for your strength and courage and I pray Supernatural Grace and Peace to attend you along the way. There WILL be a place of no more tears. You have those around who will pick up every loose end that you need them to. Be a little selfish in your needs and the needs of your children. Take some video for them later as they interact with Stephanie. Hold them tight and spend time the 4 of you.
Don’t be afraid. Perfect love casts out all fear. Love. Love. Love.
Brad,
I’m pretty sure Stephanie never knew that her nickname was “Mini Martha” (as in Martha Stewart) but that is how I often referred to her. I have to say that I love crafts and cooking but Stephanie took that to another level! From the kids birth announcements, to the elaborate birthday cakes, to Halle’s Hairbows–she was amazing! I specifically remember Kelly telling me of a birthday party Stephanie threw for you–complete with mini cheeseburgers and all of your favorite things. How truly thoughtful!
Her bright smile certainly lit up the room and she was so relatable and easy to talk to. I’m pretty sure I will never be able to cook/bake/craft quite like Stephanie…but when I make my attempts I will certainly think of her and smile.
My prayers for you, Stephanie and your children certainly do not stop here. I cannot stress enough how inspiring your courage and strength have been. May God give you peace and continued encouragement as you continue on this journey.
~Talie~
Brad and Stephanie, I remember being in youth group together and being in church together. I remember how nice you guys were to me even when I was going through difficult times. Which was my cancer and all the problems and complications that came with it! You were there for me and I will be there for you! I remember the beautiful cards Stephanie would make! They were gorgeous! I know that I have lost touch with you guys, but I have thought of you guys through the years! Your children are beautiful! I must tell you that you must never lose hope or faith! By all medical reasons I was suppose to die! I should not be living! But by the grace of god he decided to keep me here! He has a specific purpose for me! My doctors said it was a miracle I survived! But a survivor in you is there! He has a miracle for you just like you said! There are miracles everywhere! I am here for you if you need anything! We are having a get together on Sunday at panera on broadview rd in seven hills. We are gathering to pray for you guys and to talk. Everyone is welcome! Brad and Stephanie we are all here for you! We love you! Keep in touch and keep us posted! Love ya! :)
Sending prayers from Suwanee, Ga to the Luczywo and Hnat families. I’m a friend of Bill’s and have been touched and encouraged by your posts. May Stephanie feel the love and faith of a miracle that is being expressed through this site. Hold tight to precious memories (like your summer vacation in Ga and at the beach with family)…..God has you in his tender loving care.
Sincerely,
Lori Drake
STEPHANIE HNAT LUCZYWO – A DEAR YOUNG LADY WHOM I LOVE.
God has poured into Stephanie creativity and talents that she never once held back from Him. I can remember many times seeing her work on different projects from computer graphics and publications to hundreds of handmade paper roses for her own wedding some day. She loved to make beautiful things from ordinary ingredients, be it handmade cards, homemade beautifully decorated cookies and so on.
She loves the beauty that could be found in everyday items that most people might overlook. She is a kindred spirit to me in her love of things that have seen many long years on this earth. We both love old books. Stephanie loves to hold them, smell them, tenderly turn each page as if it was a fragile leaf; I understand that about her. We both had to smell the book first before we even opened it. It is as if the book could speak before even reading what the pages contained. I remember the joy I felt as I gave her one of my own favorite old books. It was an old friend that I was excited to give to this young, vibrant dear friend of mine.
We also share a love of old china; not complete sets of old china but the random piece that got separated from the rest somehow in its journey through the years. It was almost as if she felt compelled to rescue these random pieces from obscurity.
As much as Stephanie enjoys these small material blessings that God sprinkles around us, it is her heart for people that I love most about her. She took my daughter, Breanne, under her loving wing many a time during her adolescent years and treated her like a sister. She made the most beautiful box of scrapbooking supplies for Breanne that to this day holds more than just papers, ribbons and shiny things; it holds our hearts for the dear lady who so thoughtfully prepared it for a little girl who loved her!
What a wonderful mother Stephanie will make someday I would think in my heart. And now I can see that has come to pass. Halle and Brady, your mommy is loved by many. We all know that God has a special plan for all of us and that He has written every page of our lives in His book before we even took our first breath. And those pages, like fragile leaves, may go through many seasons but their Creator, our Father in Heaven, never loses even one of them as the bloom, flower, fade, fall and bloom again. We love you Stephanie, Brad, Brady and Halle.
In His Love, Cathy and Breanne Niswonger
Brad, my memories of Steph go back to the time she worked at the church office at Parma Heights Baptist. Whenever we would talk about anything she always had the brightest smile. She was always willing to help you when you needed the help. I enjoyed working with her in preparations for a women’s retreat in Amish Country. You two had just started dating and she was so excited about her life at that time. She was so crafty when it came to cards, cooking, etc. I knew that someday, she would be a caring, loving wife and mom.
It was always nice to stay in contact with her through her comments on Facebook. She would always share news about the kids, etc. Steph is a sweet and loving friend. We will continue praying for her and your family. May you feel the love of Christ, His strength, His peace and His grace through all of this.
Brad,
As the story of your family develops, I cannot help but to think of my brother and his family as well. He and his wife lost an infant daughter to a heart defect after three months of ups and downs. It was tragic and heart wrenching, but, really, what brings your two stories together in my mind, is the amazing, unexplainable testimonies that you both possess. Day by day, I followed his blog, just as I have yours. And day by day, more and more people were exposed to a simple, genuine faith in Christ, just as they are seeing today. Hers was both the saddest and most peaceful funeral that I have ever attended. It was a celebration of God’s grace and love. That was five years ago this December. I write all this as an encouragement to you. You remind me so much of my brother with a faith that will not be shaken under such intense, massive strain. Be encouraged and know that you and Stephanie are reaching out to more people this week than at any other time in your lives. And the opportunity to share Jesus with such a receptive, captivated audience of nonbelievers is never as great as during times like these. Your willingness to be so transparent on this blog has availed you that chance. Thank you, and know that we
have not stopped praying and pleading and crying over you and Stephanie, nor will we.
I don’t really know you or Stephanie very well, but I see her all the time when I am babysitting Denise’s kids (my cousins). Whenever she would come over while I was babysitting, we would usually have a brief conversation but I always thought how nice Stephanie is. She is a very good mom and she is always smiling. When I heard about this, it literally brought me to tears. It’s amazing how many emotions you can have for someone you barely know. I am praying very hard for her and your family. I hope with all my heart that this ends well.
Brad we are all praying for Stephanie, you and your sweet babies.
I remember when I was pregnant with my 3rd baby and she was pregnant with Halle. We were discussing baby names. I said if baby number 3 was a boy that we were going to name him Chase. I remember her saying how much she loved that name so much and that if it weren’t Brady’s middle name she would have loved to use it if she were to ever have another boy.
Our baby number 3 was a boy and his name is Chase and he has had a lot of struggles of his own with his health this last year and his recovery has been a true miracle. Stephanie was so supportive and I know she was one of many who prayed for him.
I know how much every prayer and offer of support was appreciated by us and we will continue to do the same for your family!
Stephanie, I remember all of the times that we would go over to your house and bake. We would make all sorts of things and then give them away–often accompanied by homemade cards! Both of us loved baking just for the joy of doing it.
As I have been reading Brad’s posts, he wrote about how hard you tried to make croissants for him and how strongly that communicated your love to him. Steph, my husband loves apple pie, which his mom is renowned for making. Up until now, I never made him a pie because I didn’t think it would compare to his mom’s. But when Brad shared how much your croissants meant, I realized that maybe it wasn’t really the finished product that mattered–what mattered was having a heart of love and a desire to bless your husband. I made an apple pie for my husband last night–the first of my life. I pray that I can love my husband well for all the days of my life, as you have done.
Stephanie –
I have always appreciated that you loved people for who they were. You always referred to me as your “funny” friend. How true that is on so many levels. You found the best parts in people and enjoyed them while being able to deal with the not so best parts.
It’s hard to imagine how we met so many years ago and really got to know each other working for hours upon hours in the church office. Looking back now, I know how awesome a friend you are. Who else would cut 120 laminated bats with me the night before VBS until 1a.m.? But you had a great heart for me and so many of the teenagers in the youth group we worked with. You made every effort to make sure everything wasn’t just done, but it was done especially for them, with their needs in mind.
I have so many memories of our friendship that I carry with me. I still have the little booklet you gave me as a gift on your wedding day….along with a finger elephant puppet you gave me when I went to college that lives in the armrest of my car to this very day. Thank you for being a good friend, who has been honest with me when I’ve needed it but still knew when we just needed to kick back and have a good time.
I’ve been praying for you, Ben and I both have, since we found out you were in the hospital. So many people are praying for you. Scripture commands us to encourage one another daily, to uphold each other. I know you may or may not be able to hear our words to you, but I know that God is able to encourage us in ways we don’t even understand. I pray that you are so strongly in His presence and that His peace is with you as only He can give.
Brad – Ben and I pray continually for you and your children. I pray that God renews your strength, courage and wisdom every day. We pray that he provides for you in ways that we cannot. We pray that he comforts you in all of your moments. We pray that He brings you peace in your spirit. We pray that he provides all of your needs as only He can.
We love you both. In Christ,
Kate
Dear Brad,
We won’t be getting off the bus – our prayers are with you now and will be with you going forward.
Each time I enter Kate’s old room at our house, I am reminded of Stephanie. They painted, ragged and stenciled the walls together – it is beautiful and feminine – and a lovely reminder of Stephanie for us.
love, Bonnie and Moorman
I met Stephanie the first time at a bagel shop on my way to work. Her cheerfulness so early in the morning caught my eye as well as her warm smile. She was super nice and easy to talk to and I knew that she would be an asset to BG. Little did I know that she would not only get a job there but become a good friend. I am so sorry to hear about her health and will send whatever good thoughts I can her way.
I’m so sorry you got such devastating news today. My continued prayers for a miracle.
Hey Brad and Steph, was listening to this song tonight and it is so fitting. It is called Never let Go by Matt Redmen;
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death
Your perfect love is casting out fear
And even when I’m caught in the middle of the storms of this life
I won’t turn back
I know you are near
And I will fear no evil
For my God is with me
And if my God is with me
Whom then shall I fear?
Whom then shall I fear?
(Chorus:)
Oh no, You never let go
Through the calm and through the storm
Oh no, You never let go
In every high and every low
Oh no, You never let go
Lord, You never let go of me
And I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
A glorious light beyond all compare
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
We’ll live to know You here on the earth
(Chorus)
Yes, I can see a light that is coming for the heart that holds on
And there will be an end to these troubles
But until that day comes
Still I will praise You, still I will praise You
Brad, when I heard this all that came to my head was your posts, and the hope and the strength that you have in Christ is just AMAZING!!! Prayers are with you! My heart aches! But praying for that miracle!
Ooooo, great song Dawn.. perfect..
Brad, our hearts are sooo heavy and saddened by the results. Our thoughts have been constantly consumed by Stephanie’s overwhelming condition, but have been met with fervent prayers and pleading with our Heavenly Father for a miracle. Your unwavering trust and faith during this time has spoken volumes to us and is a testament to your steadfast relationship with the One that holds this universe together.
Stephanie, we met you and your wonderful family during the summer of 2009 when we joined group. We are privileged to share in the immense love you have as a family and the touching ways in which they adore you. Your captivating smile and laughter remains contagious yet augments your graceful personality so elegantly. You thoughtfully go out of your way to please everyone and make them feel so special.
One of the key attributes we treasure about you is your kind generosity and caring nature. A memory we so fondly recall is how you so very sweetly went out of your way to make us feel at home by trying to hunt down the South African Buttermilk rusks that we always rave about and the successful sourcing of the much appreciated Tennis biscuits (cookies). You’ve tasted a few of the many rusk batch attempts to match the ‘gold standard’ BUT fortunately my Mom arrives next week and will be bringing the much talked about Melissa’s one’s over – you ARE so gonna taste those :) !!
You truly are an amazing woman and have constantly been an inspiration to us both. We love you dearly!
Hugs and kisses,
Janine and Shaun
Brad & Stephanie,
Katie & I sit and read/cry your blog each night and we think about you and pray throughout the day and night. We have not had the chance to meet Stephanie yet, but we have stalked your Facebook page to see the more recent pictures of your beautiful family. Brad, thank you for taking the time to post and share your experience with us. Your words echo the ups and downs we experienced a little over a year ago when Mary Alice was in the hospital. As difficult as it was, we continually suggest to one another how much more difficult your experience seems to us. We will continue to pray for a miracle to restore Stephanie’s life and for God’s loving arms of comfort to wrap all of you in his all-sufficient grace!
Ben & Katie
Dear Brad,
What a thoughtful husband you are to ask us to share our memories of Stepahine so you can read them to her. That is a true selfless act of love.
Dear Stephanie,
As a mother, when my daughter was small I prayed daily for her as I am sure you have done for Brady and Halle. I always prayed that the Lord would give her godly friends. I continually prayed this prayer for my daughter throughout grade school, junior high school, high school, college, as she married and as she became a mother.
The Lord was faithful and provided friends for her as needed. Stephanie, you were an answer to my prayer, too! My daughter is a close friend of yours. God has used you in my daughter’s life in so many very special ways. You two have shared your joys and heartaches, recipes and baby clothes. You’ve shared prayer requests and parenting tips. You’ve cried together and laughed together. You’ve lifted each other up and carried each other burdens. You’ve made meals for each other. You’ve changed each other’s children diapers! You’ve shared beauty secrets! I’m am sure your friendship has gone down so many other roads that I am not even aware of. Thank you, Stephanie for being a godly Christian friend to my daughter, for being such a good role model for her. Her heart is breaking now as she sees her friend sick and she is so helpless to help you. She is praying without ceasing. We are all praying for a miracle. She loves you and can think about nothing else but you and your family.
Thank you Stephanie for allowing God to work in you and minister to my daughter and give her the gift of your friendship.
With a thankful heart I sign myself a grateful mother.
Stephanie-
I didn’t get to know you as much as I know I would have liked to with so many miles between our sides of the family but in the short time I did I immediately knew that you were a good and caring soul. Having our first daughter born so close to your lovely angel Halle afforded us some brief time to interact. Your kindest and caring were evident from the first moment we were introduced and it has stuck with me.
Your journey now is unknown in the physical world but I have no doubt that your soul will live on and forever more in your children and adoring husband. I am not much of a religious person but have no doubt that the love that surrounds you and your family is GREAT! Fear not that they will be taken care of in the tough times ahead. They are in good hands and you will not miss a moment of their lives as you watch over them.
– Keith
Hello Brad and Stephanie,
I remember after you did that amazing bell song using like 12 bells soloing during last Christmas, we were all amazed, including Stephanie. I think she either said or wrote (Fb) “That’s my amazingly talented husband.” Another thought, maybe two years ago, you came to me asking how many residence at hospice. You continued to say that your wife makes greeting cards and she wants to make Christmas cards for all the residence. She did. They turned out awesome and I’m happy you were able to pass them out to residence for Christmas. While Megan and I are no longer together I remember asking her if Hallie was in the nursery. As time would go by, Megan would sometimes say, “Guess who was in the nursery today?” I smiled. “Hallie?” She nodded. But what topped it off was somehow your wife made those matching bows to match the her outfits. I told her sometime ago whenever I have kids one day you’ll have to make one. Stephanie smiled.
i have never meet either of you but from your posts i feel like i have known you all my life brad i am so sorry for what you are going threw but even with everything going on in your life you are focusing on the only person that can get you threw it and that is Jesus you are such an inspiration thank you for sharing your journey not only does this make me want to go hold my babies while i can but it has inspired me to get a closer walk with my king, Jesus you have made me realize i am not as close to him as i should be so thank you for that i understand you would prefer to have your wife with you raising your children but also know that just by reading your posts that even if she does go to be with Jesus before we want her to she will still be there raising her babies with you your memories will keep her alive with your children and your love for her is so obvious in your posts, that will show to your children my prayers are with you and Stephanie and the children and anyone whose life she has touch i pray for miracles from heaven Lord i lift this family up to you right now i pray that their needs are meet even though we don’t always understand why You do certain things or why You allow them to happen we are going to have faith that Your will prevails we know by Your word that you take all things and make them good for those who love you and i see this man and his family love you i pray right now that you will show him what your plan is and you will show them the good coming out of this i pray for these children i pray that even if their mother is not here on earth with them, that they will always have the memories of things they shared together and always feels her love for them i have faith that you make miracles happen and that is what i am praying for i am praying for the miracle that she suddenly comes out of this with no signs that it ever happened i pray that you touch her family and friends give them strength, courage, grace, and peace that only you can i thank you for these things in Jesus sweetname Amen
Brad & Stephanie,
I am a friend of Scott and Sarah. I have only had the opportunity to get to know you two through this circumstance. Stephanie, you are a wonderful wife and you are an incredible mom to those two little kids. God has used you to touch peoples lives.
I will continue to pray. God is good. There is no better place to be than in His loving arms.
– Doug
You guys don’t know me. I found your blog through a friend on Facebook. But I went back and read all of your entries about Stephanie. I’m sitting here in tears, unable to imagine what you must be going through and unable to find the right words to express how sorry I am that you and your family are having to go through such a difficult time.
I commend you for keeping your faith in God. Miracles are possible anytime should it be His will, no matter how grim the prognosis. We must never give up on prayers and good thoughts as he is alwas listening. I am praying for you and your family.
Stephanie, I never met you in real life as I’m over the ocean in Scotland, but know that you are a valued member of our wee Storkie “family”. I hope you can hear and feel the love in our messages through Brad reading them to you. Fiona x
Brad, I don’t know what to say, there are no words. Wishing you strength to get through this. x
Brad, we never met. Stephanie and I worked together many many years ago. I worked as the Graphic Designer at a company that many of the Hnat family worked for. Since those years I have kept up with her life as friends do…through other people that love her. I have always heard how happy her life is with you and the children. She is one of the most tender and creative people I know. She made the wedding cake for my wedding during a time that many of us were having a miserable time in life. We were all going to have to find new jobs. Yet, Stephanie never gave up. When my new husband and I walked through the doors at the reception and saw that cake she created with her two hands…it was breathtaking. She is truly blessed by God. I wanted to share that little memory with you because it is one of many that I think of daily as I read your blog. I read your words and think…you must be one of her angels…you have such pure love for her. I am honored to be able to read your words each day. I am humbled and inspired!
Although I only saw Stephanie one time – when you brought her and the kids into work – I do have one really, really, really tasty memory of her. Her goodies!!!!! In fact, Brad, had your wife not sent in goodies and Karen Couchey hauled me over to your desk for a taste, I may have never met you! Thank you so much for sharing those goodies.
As for getting off the bus, let me tell you this: you cannot get rid of us so easily. The Luczywo Prayer Warrior Team is with you for the entire journey. You and Stephanie and your family will be with so many of us, at least in our prayers, for the rest of your lives. No matter how this turns out on Earth, we will continue to remember and pray.
Hi Stephanie,
It’s been roughly a decade since our days at ViAtro, yet in some ways, it seems like only yesterday. It felt much like I was working with family while I was there. We had our fair share of laughs with Halloween costumes, teasing “Sir” (is that still a term of endearment for your dad?), and lunchroom chatter (not to mention you always baked the BEST desserts ever! What a skill you graciously shared with the office). You were always such a joy to work with and despite our age difference we could chat effortlessly about life, love and our futures. We were both “finding ourselves” back then, but we each had our goals set for the years ahead. I can remember your immense desire to have a family even back then. I can see from all the wonderful comments from your friends and family, you truly succeeded in life with a beautiful, loving and spiritual family. You often commented on how much you liked my name and now I see I share the same name with your gorgeous baby girl – what an honor. I wish we could have stayed in touch and introduced our families to one another. Maybe we will have that opportunity one day, as God truly works miracles. Please know you have a special place in my heart as a beautiful, caring, inspiring and creative soul. Thank you for those cherished memories. May God bless you and your family from today and for many years to come…
My heart breaks for you and your family. And yet, should Stephanie be called home, she will experience peace and restoration that is literally out of this world. No more concerns about why the seizures began in the first place, no more pain. And while I am still praying for a miracle that turns all of your (and our) worst fears around, I see the hope and joy in walking hand-in-hand with our Creator. Stephanie’s life is a testimony to not only her faith, but to her husband’s faith. Based on your blog I know that your children will be well taken care of regardless of the outcome. Our hearts and prayers are with you.
Brad,
I wanted to let you know that even though we haven’t spoken much outside from a few times as co-works at AG, that my thoughts have been with your & your family since I first learned about what you were going through via Kier’s post on FB. It might seem strange that I can’t stop thinking about you guys even though we hardly know each other but I think it’s having a family with small children that keeps us connected. It really hits home how difficult… impossible this must be for you all. I keep thinking of the wonderful photos of your family in your cube which I have admired the times I’ve come over to chat. I know that no matter what happens, those tender moments will always live inside you and comfort you forever.
I wish you & your family the best.
-Todd
Brad,
Your dear family has been in my prayers constantly since hearing the news on Monday. I continue to pray and will not stop.
Brad,
It’s been years since we last spoke ro saw each other! I love you and I miss you. Thank you for sharing, I will pass along prayer requests to as many people on the west coast in LA as humanly possible.
Stephanie,
I’ve been talking to you all week, but with each day I think of more things to tell you. Today, I made scrambled eggs the way you do…something silly, but I was thinking of you when deciding what to make the boys for breakfast. I pulled out my recipe box and grabbed everything in your handwriting-you are such an amazing cook and never gave yourself enough credit.
Today, I’m not sure if I can talk to you myself because the boys are sick, but when I woke up this morning I remembered walking to the pool in 90 degree heat when I was having contractions with Noah. Remember taking the boys to the pool and swimming while trying to move Noah along? You were making me laugh so hard that day that it made labor so easy-I was in the hospital that night.
I also thought of driving all over Detroit looking for a store that sold cds so that we could buy a cd that you were “craving.” Ha! We were not the smartest then, huh? Two young girls driving all around Detroit-but we found it, went to a wedding that night…danced for HOURS and fell on the floor in the hallway and laughed for no reason for about a half hour…what a fun day, huh? We always had an adventure together!
You always make me laugh…we can have all the kids going nuts and all the toys out and be sipping our iced coffees and laughing. More memories to share with you to come…just something that I thought of this morning.
Love you more than you can understand!
Brad and Stephanie,
We’ve never met but after reading your blog about Stephanie’s journey I couldn’t not let you know that I’m praying for you all.
All I can say is God DOES perform miracles! They may not be when we want them, where we want them or even how we want them but rest assured he has plan for our lives!
I’ve had first hand experience at those miracles and the life changes it brings. I’m praying for you all and that no matter what road he chooses for you stay strong in your faith and love with all your might.
Hi, Brad and Stephanie! Brad, I went to school with your brother Scott and was on the Aviso with him, but I started working at Malone in 2001 and remember you from those days. I have been following Scott’s facebook posts and praying for you guys constantly, as my children are the same ages as yours.
I am praying for a miracle for Stephanie and your family and pray that all of you are overwhelmed by love, grace, comfort, and peace and HEALING! I pray that other believers become Jesus with skin on for you…
I am not getting off the bus. I will be here every day, reading and praying for you all. Even though we have never met, we are all connected by our faith and hope for a miracle for Stephanie.
Dear Brad & Stephanie,
I don’t now you, but I am deeply sadened by what you are going through! I will pray for Stephanie to have a complete recovery. I am going through breast cancer and I know the fear in the unknown. Stephanie you fight girl. You have two little children that need you. You can do this. Prayers are very powerful and miracles do happen! I am praying for a miracle for your family!
Brad,We have met occasionally at CVC and PHBC and am sure you don’t remember but we have known your parents for many years. We just wanted you to know that we are praying for you and your family daily. It breaks our hearts to know what you’re going through but we are in awe of your faith in this difficult time.
Brad and Stephanie,
The entire Malone community is praying for you. May God meet your every need and keep you all in the palm of His strong and good hands.
Blessings,
Deb Robinson