Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. (Romans 12:15 NIV)
[This update was posted on the social media page of the mother of “Cora,” the young girl who had extensive brain surgery in August to remove a slow-growing tumor. She has made a great recovery, overall, but still struggles with hearing in her right ear and facial paralysis. Please continue to pray for her and for her family.]
“We have already been very busy with appointments for [Cora] this year, and we wanted to share an update with everyone who has been praying and following her journey.
“She has continued faithfully going to therapy 1–2 times a week for her VitalStim treatments to help with her facial paralysis. She is working so hard, and we are so proud of her perseverance through all of this.
“Her plastic surgeon at [the area children’s hospital] requested an EMG to test her nerves in preparation for nerve graft surgery. We attempted the test, but unfortunately it was too painful for her to complete. That was discouraging in the moment, but God continues to guide each step.
“We then met with a new plastic surgeon at U of M, and she was truly amazing. After a lot of prayer and discussion, we have decided to transfer Cora’s nerve surgery there. The plan is even more comprehensive than before. Not only will she perform the “babysitter” procedure that was originally planned, but she will also take a nerve from Cora’s leg and connect the facial nerves from the left side to the right side. This was something that had been discussed as a future surgery, but we feel very encouraged that it can all be done at once instead of putting her through two separate operations.
“Her surgery is currently scheduled for April 21st, and she is also on the waitlist in case an earlier date becomes available.
“We also have a huge praise — she has finally reached her pre-surgery weight again! Praise God for His provision and for strengthening her little body.
“Today we met with her neurosurgeon to address the limited range of motion in her neck. She has referred us to another neurologist to evaluate possible Botox injections in her trapezoid muscles and has also recommended muscle relaxers and additional physical therapy.
“We are trusting the Lord with every step, grateful for wise doctors, and so thankful for all of your prayers, encouragement, and love for Cora. Please continue to pray for wisdom, smooth scheduling, and complete healing in the months ahead.”
Great Physician,
Today we rejoice with “Cora,” her parents, and all who love her. Thank you for your protection, provision, and healing in her life, and for giving her the strength, energy, and stamina to continue on this road of recovery. We are grateful for encouraging reports from doctors and for hopeful expectations surrounding her upcoming surgeries.
We recognize that while you have given wisdom and knowledge to these medical professionals, your ways and your thoughts are far higher than ours. So we thank you for the ways you are working through this situation for your greater good in the life of this family who loves you.
In the name of Jesus, we pray for complete and total healing from the facial paralysis and for restored hearing in her right ear. Whether you choose to bring this healing through modern medicine or through a miracle, we will praise you for it.
Today we also pray for continued strength, stamina, and grace for her parents and for all who stand with her. Provide everything they need, according to your riches in glory, as they care for this precious child and help bring her to full health and renewed energy. We ask these things in Jesus’ name, AMEN.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28 NIV)
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19 NIV)