R.I.P Isla Rose

Expected to live only twenty four hours, we had the priveledge of knowing this delightful child nine months. October visit to specialist, the news that the drug regiime had not worked, a new drug for her enlarged heart and the prospect of heart transplant had shocked her parents. They diligently coped with life a day at a time. Baby Isla's progress was amazing as if she wanted to imprint in our memories her skills, at times in pain, but a real warrior, she crept into our hearts with her smiling chuckle.

My prayer life became very disciplined. I felt that Isla's life underpinned by God's love and care. A common cold led to breathing problems and Isla's home once again was Ward 3C. With great medical care, her breathing improved by Monday morning. We all heaved a sigh of relief but a chest infection was too much for Isa's heart and after extensive resusitation, her parents took the couragous decision to let her go. Parents, grandparents witnessed these emotional moments and scattered in their grief (I found a God-Given strength to stay with my granddaughter). I wrapped her fingers around my finger; a bond established from the Royal Brampton Hospital days. I stroked her hair, talked and prayed over her. No longer in pain, at rest in God's hands. The nurse was concerned for me but I explained that my faith is strong. God is with me; I am fine. Isla looked beautiful in her rest. God knew that Isla's life on earth would always be difficult and painful. Each time tears engulfed me, I found myself comforter to all the family (quite a few) as they passed her around cuddling her in their grief and saying goodbye I realized how priveledged I had been to be at her cot-side so soon after death. The Isla of later was not the Isla I saw. Had I witnessed her spirit go?

Isla was buried on a cold frosty day before Christmas with close family members wearing red t-shirts with Isla's face emblazened on the front and the family on the back. God protected me here too, I have a fear of slipping on the ice. My husband was the coffin carrier. Two young men took the responsibility of caring for me going and returning to a beautiful service incorporating poems to an endearing child, a warrior and dedications and prayers to Isla's joy of life.

Two weeks earlier at the same church a thanksgiving service for Isla and Freya. Freya, her gentle and accomodating spirit through all this has been a wonder to behold. A child already touched by God. I prayed for God's strength and love of her parents to endure all aspects of this event, they were both amazing in different ways. A real complement to each other. But I shall never forget my son placing the earth back over Isla's coffin. When I spoke to him about this he said he was completing his job as a father; putting Isla to earth's rest. I stand in the middle of this knowing I am under God's protective tent. Such words of comfort, encouragement and wisdom has surprised even me. There will still be issues to deal with, but love conquers all. Isla has gone, waiting in heaven for her Nana, but Freya is my hope now and I look forward to the journey.

Thank you for your prayer support. Knowing my church family was there is very comforting. Witnessing prayers answered was uplifting.

Enjoy each day. Count your blessings. Love one another.

God bless,
Joan