I am a mom of a cutie pie (very biased). And I wanted to share my experiences with others (including my cuties grandparents, great-grandparents, numerous uncles and other relatives). I love being a mom and can't imagine doing anything else.A request from "Pa"
If you were to scroll down to the bottom of this page you would find a counter which shows, at this moment, 14,586 "hits". This suggests that a whole bunch of people are reading my daughter Emily's blog. I am sure by the time you read this entry there will be many more hits. This counter was placed there by Uncle Will just a few weeks ago. I had encouraged Emily to get a counter because, although we knew many people were following the lives of our precious Livi and her parents, I knew it would bless them to see just how many read it. It truly has been a blessing.
It would appear that the adventure that has been Alivia's illness will take a different turn this week. Admitting Alivia to the hospital for the bone marrow transplant is something we had hoped to avoid, but is now upon us. To say that there is no fear or trepidation would be a lie. However, we have an awesome God that sits on the throne of grace. He is sovereign and is committed to the bonds of love that are promised in His Word. In Him we trust, for He has nothing but good for us. There is no reason to think that his faithfulness will not continue to sustain us. If all goes well, Alivia will be in the hospital for 40 days (see Emily's entry titled "Eye exam" from Monday, February 19). During the many hospital visits Alivia has had during the last 11 months she, and we, have had the run of the entire hospital. We have made every hallway, lounge, playroom and cafeteria our home. The interfaith chapel is a wonderful place for Livi to toss pennies in the fountain. However, that will not be her experience this time. Alivia and her mommy will be confined to her hospital room with very few of us being able to be there with them.
Now to my request. I would like to encourage you to comment on Emily's blog. As encouraging as it is to see the number of hits, Emily, James and the rest of Haughery/Allen clan are encouraged by your words, even when it is a short "I am thinking and praying for you". Through your words we experience God's mercy, compassion, kindness, goodness, grace and love in a tangible way. You can express your thoughts, prayers, well wishes or whatever.
Some of you may be as technologically challenged as I am, (this is from a guy who still plays records on a turntable) but go ahead, give it a try. Some might say "I am a stranger, they don't know me". If you are reading this lengthy entry you obviously are interested in Alivia and her parents so you have every right to comment. You are fighting the good fight with us, and are no stranger. Some may say "I don't know what to say". Well, simply saying "I don't know what to say, but you are in my thoughts", will suffice. If this sounds like a plea from a loving father/grandfather it is. Please try to visit Emily through this "cool tool" she calls "Who's the cutest girl in the world". Most sincerely, Pa
posted by Alivia's Momma @ 9:25 PM
108 Comments:
Dear Haughery Family,
Your thoughts tonite have encouraged me to leave a message, as I am one of probably hundreds who have been following Alivia's story since the day my friends and I signed up for the bone marrow registry in Lancaster. I have been so touched by reading about your daughter and her journey, and I am praying that her transplant will be a success and all will go well. Thank you for continuing to keep us updated, God is working through your family. Blessings, Donna
Pa, let me start by saying,you are the best!
Dear James, Emily, Alivia, the wonderful Allen family, and the dear Haughery family...
My how we love you all and lift you up daily. You are never far from our hearts and you never fall short of our prayers. Emily, in your small room there will be a symphony of thoughts and prayers from the multitudes who love you dearly. You are not alone, my friend! You are NEVER alone.
Alivia, you are the bravest person I know! (followed closely by your mama and your daddy) How good it is to know that you are in the infitely large hand of our Heavenly Father. How adorable you must look there and how He must cherish you. Be at peace through this, Sweet Livi!
With so much more love than there are words to express,
Julie (on behalf of the Garner Fam)
James, Emily and Alivia,
I have read your blog everyday for the past 10 months and my heart has fallen in love with your little Alivia. She is beautiful and precious. I will be praying for you all this week.
Sara from CO (Ang's Sis)
Psalm 71:1 In you, O Lord, do I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame!
2 In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me;
incline your ear to me, and save me!
3 Be to me a rock of refuge,
to which I may continually come;
you have given the command to save me,
for you are my rock and my fortress.
4 Rescue me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked,
from the grasp of the unjust and cruel man.
5 For you, O Lord, are my hope,
my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
6 Upon you I have leaned from before my birth;
you are he who took me from my mother's womb.
My praise is continually of you.
7 I have been as a portent to many,
but you are my strong refuge.
8 My mouth is filled with your praise,
and with your glory all the day.
9 Do not cast me off in the time of old age;
forsake me not when my strength is spent.
10 For my enemies speak concerning me;
those who watch for my life consult together
11 and say, “God has forsaken him;
pursue and seize him,
for there is none to deliver him.”
12 O God, be not far from me;
O my God, make haste to help me!
13 May my accusers be put to shame and consumed;
with scorn and disgrace may they be covered
who seek my hurt.
14 But I will hope continually
and will praise you yet more and more.
15 My mouth will tell of your righteous acts,
of your deeds of salvation all the day,
for their number is past my knowledge.
16 With the mighty deeds of the Lord God I will come;
I will remind them of your righteousness, yours alone.
17 O God, from my youth you have taught me,
and I still proclaim your wondrous deeds.
18 So even to old age and gray hairs,
O God, do not forsake me,
until I proclaim your might to another generation,
your power to all those to come.
19 Your righteousness, O God,
reaches the high heavens.
You who have done great things,
O God, who is like you?
20 You who have made me see many troubles and calamities
will revive me again;
from the depths of the earth
you will bring me up again.
21 You will increase my greatness
and comfort me again.
22 I will also praise you with the harp
for your faithfulness, O my God;
I will sing praises to you with the lyre,
O Holy One of Israel.
23 My lips will shout for joy,
when I sing praises to you;
my soul also, which you have redeemed.
24 And my tongue will talk of your righteous help all the day long,
for they have been put to shame and disappointed
who sought to do me hurt.
May this Psalm revive your hearts, knowing that he will not forsake you when your strength is spent, he will increase your greatness and comfort you again. I am praying that you would find comfort and peace when you least expect it during the time of Alivia's hospital stay. May you cling to his promises, for they are yours to claim by the blood of Christ! My prayers will be with you all during this difficult time.
Emily,James and Alivia,
We just finished House Church and we lifted Alivia and family up in prayer. Like David I hoped that this day would have been avoided because of our Farthers loving intervention. Now we join you in trusting in His sovereignty,love and wisdom. Your blog has been a continual help to keep Alivia,James and you in our thoughts and prayers.
Love the Malito's
James, Emily, and Alivia,
I, too, have read your blog every day for the past year. We've never met, but I laugh with you, cry with you and am touched daily by your strength and courage. What a beautiful, sweet little girl you are raising! The three of you are truly amazing people and you will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. Take care and God bless.
With love,
Julie Duffee
Indiana
Is. 41:10
10fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Matthew 6:27
27And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?
I pray that your family will experience peace during this trial knowing that your God will lead you through this time with His awesome strength and power.
I'm praying for miraculous and wonderful success for the transplant for Alivia.
I am praying for you all this week. I know that our Almighty God can do more than we can think, ask, or imagine. I can imagine Livi having a perfect transplant, I can think of her being perfectly content in her confined quarters playing with the people she loves most in the world oblivious to all the changes around her and I am asking that she will heal quickly and go home ahead of schedule. Praying you will experience His perfect peace and our prayers will be answered. Vicki G.
Emily,
You and your family continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Deb B
Dear James, Emily, Alivia and Family,
I have been following Alivia's story since this all began last April. You have traveled a rough road and you still have a distance to travel. Yet through it all, you have been a living testimony as to how God will keep you and sustain you in all circumstance.
Emily, you have so humbly shared your concerns and fears about the future and your disappointments about the past, but you have also shared your faith and trust in God as he gives you strength to perservere. So many lives have been touched by you sharing your life story.
Our small group is studying Max Lucado's book, "Facing Your Giants" We are learning that there is no Giant too big to face when we know God is on our side, that he loves us and that he has a plan for our lives. You and your family have been a witness of that to the thousands of people who know Livi's story and who have been reading your blog. Your testimoney of faith is just as awesome as David's when he stood before Goliath, knowing God was in control. You are such a blessing to those of us who crumble at the sight of our giants.
My prayer and the prayers of many in our church is that God will fight this battle for Livi....that the transplant will be successful, and that Livi's life will be restored to one of wholesness and good health. We trust GOd to continue to wrap his loving arms around Livi and your family and carry you through the next 40 days and beyond......
Blessings,
Claudia Curry
emily, james, alivia, and everyone...even tho i cannot be there physically with you, i am there with you every step of the way thru prayer...last night i was reading psalm 68...(vs 10)
"in your goodness, O God, you provided for the needy."
i love you so much,
beth
Praying for strength and endurance for you and your family this morning as you get everything ready and prepared for tomorrow. May you be carried by his continued grace. love you- jamie
Here we go Livi, Here we go....
What a good idea Pa. I wish you could physically see all of us standing behind you. (like your network) You are not alone.
Love,
Diana B
Indiana
I pray for you often, but I also rejoice because I know that God's grace is sufficient for you, for his power is made perfect in weakness. (II Cor 12:9)Don't fear how weak you feel...rejoice that God is strong. "Trust in LORD with all your heart, and do not lean not on your own understanding.In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. On Tuesdays, Diana Hughes, Sue Minich and I will be praying for you all.
Emily & James, About a year ago Ang Stoltzfus shared your story with me. Since then I've been checking your blog, thinking of you, and praying for you! I will continue to pray for you everyday!
I just started working for IASD in July 2006. Since then I have come to love a little girl that I only know thru your blog. My daughter isn’t much younger than her and I cannot imagine going thru what your family has. You are such an inspiration to me. With everything that you have been going thru, you still find the room in your heart to take care of others.
I took some words from your “Day 4” post in January and posted it at my desk and keep a copy at home. When either one of my kids is testing my patience, I have your words to remind me of what I have.
I have also sympathized with you when you’ve talked about how Livi sleeps, eats, etc. You weren’t alone. My daughter, now 18 months old, still gets up several times at night. She hated baby food. She is finally eating table food, but only when SHE wants. Which may only be once or twice a week. In those aspects they are so much alike.
A beautiful, strong little girl is always in my thoughts and prayers, as is her family. Take care and may God be with you.
Shannon
James, Emily, and Alivia,
Our Covenant Discipleship Group in Indiana will continue to pray for you and your extended family.
God Bless You---
Gail Maples
Dear Emily, James, Gretchen and Dave,
Claus and I have read your blog just about everyday. We have marveled at your ability to handle whatever has happened and have even maintained a sense of humor. Alivia is so precious and has been such a trooper through all of this too. We fervently pray that this transplant will be successful and you all will be able to go on and enjoy a normal life with Alivia. You and the Haugherys are all very much in a prayers this week and we will anxiously await any news for how things go. Peace be with you.
Ann
I've been reading your posts and praying for Alivia since I stumbled upon your blog in August. My family will continue to lift ya'll up in prayer, especially this week. May you feel the Lord's sustaining presence through it all.
"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord 'My refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust'..." Psalm 91.1-2
Checking this blog has become a daily routine for me, as is praying for Livi. Weekly, I update my women's Bible study on Alivia (and Ian) and we pray for you guys. We won't stop praying.
~krissy evans
(pittsburgh)
loving you all & praying. xoxo
To all the Haugherys and Allens,
I do read this blog each day and lift up Alivia and all of you in prayer. Praying you will know the prescence and comfort of Our Lord. Much Love, Sue Minich
Haughery family,
I check this blog everyday for news on Alivia and your family so that I can be praying for you. Emily, I admire your humility in sharing your struggles with all that has been going on in your life. The Lord has blessed you so much with a godly husband, in-laws, and parents to be there with you. Alivia is blessed to have a mommy like you. I will be praying in earnest for you during this time that He will give you strength during the upcoming long days in the hospital. I pray smooth progress for Alivia.
In prayer,
Emily Shaheen - Living Hope Church
DEAR HAUGHERTY AND ALLEN FAMILIES !
I pray everyday for you ~ You are CONSTANTLY on my mind-
GOD BLESS YOU --
You have Heartfelt thoughts and MANY prayers coming from INDIANA PA.
Phyllis Miller
Praying for you all
God Bless you all~
The Drago Family
Emily, James, Alivia and the rest of your clan,
I will continue to pray in the weeks ahead. I will continue to check for updates multiple times a day! I will continue to watch for Alivia's miracle. I can't wait.
Hey Emily, James, and Liv, we love you guys so much and will be praying nonstop this week for all to go well. Can't wait for the time when we can take our girls on vacation together and just hang out. love, joe, kelly, cam, bailey, and little joe
I faithfully read this blog. I got the link from Briana's blog last spring. I'm from the Sov. Grace church in Knoxville, TN
I have "hit" this BLOG many, many more times than I have commented on it. I have prayed for Livi, Emily and particularly for James many, many more times than I have hit the BLOG.
Your family has been the focus of my family's prayers every single day for quite some time. And when we pray together at the dinner table, if the evening's designated pray-er forgets to mention Alivia the rest of the six of us faithfully lift her up to the Lord before the eating commences.
Tomorrow starts a time that we were all praying the Lord would miraculously make unnecessary. But by His sovereignty here it is. Trust Him in each moment. Don't be intimidated by an unknown future as it lies in the hands of your tender Father in heaven.
Doesn't Romans 8:26 take on more meaning in this moment than ever before?
"Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words."
With so much love,
Tom Bueche and the whole family.
Livi, So many are praying for you. Emma's kindergarten class has been praying for you, as well as my homegroup. I've passed your page to some of my friends and they are encouraged by your mom & dad's strength and trust in God. Even though you are just short of being two years old, I pray that you will feel God's hand upon you during the upcoming weeks, though you may not yet know the words to describe it to anyone.
And to Pa, thanks for your words of kindness. I'm sure it is encouraging for all to see the "count" of people on here and the words of the many who read this blog often. It is neat to see such a large web of believers coming together in prayer. (I think I just made that web thing up.) ~Beth
We continue to pray God's merciful blessing of healing to Alivia and that Emily, James, and all the family will have patience for the process and peace for the journey. His promise is His presence. You are not alone, He is with you ALWAYS, in the hospital room, during the transplant, in the middle of the night, even to the ends of the earth.
Deb and Rick Gilgore
(friends of Julie and Dan Garner)
James, Emily, Alivia and Family - praying for you all! - Jenn Grover, Pittsburgh
To Alivia and those who love her,
My family has been praying (and reading the blog) since we first heard of Alivia's illness through Nora Shank's blog.
We pray for you all daily and will be thinking of you even more as you face the continuing journey this week.
God bless you all
Ashley
Praying for you in Connecticut. This is Lyndon Sentz's mom and I have kept track of you by blog. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God is in control. Lean heavy
Love, Karlyn Sentz
Praying for you.
Pauline
Dear Haughery and Allen families,
You will all be in our prayers this week, especially Alivia. Praying that each step of the process will go better than planned. Praying for no side effects, and a happy-- at peace Alivia.
With love,
the Fedelis
I check your blog everyday. I can't imagine what you're going through and am amazed that you take the time to write about it. We're praying for you and your family. Mona
Dear baby Alivia,
You don't know me, but my family and I are members of the Reading church and we have been reading about and most importantly praying for you since the summer time. Please know little baby that you will be continually in our prayers these next 40 days.
With love, Danielle and JOel Madison
Dear Emily,
I know it's been a while, but you have not far from my thoughts and our families prayers. ( And Jess has kept me up to date) I am praying for peace inspite of deep pain, and trust in the midst of fear.
Cara (Slothower) LaFauci
I'm praying for you all.
Love you,
Maureen
Emily, What a great dad you have! The King family is praying for your whole family this week! Love & Blessings, Brandi & Family
Dear Haughery family,
I work for Michael Allen and I have been following your blog. I wanted you to know that me, my family and my church family are all praying for you and your family. We are specifically praying for a miracle, which we know God can do.
Wow, Emily! I'm post number forty-something. I guess when "Pa" speaks, folks listen!
Praying hard for Livi, you, James and all of your family this week.
Romans 8:32:
He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?
Mary Ann K.
Emily, James, Alivia, Dave, Gretchen and Haughery family,
Our prayers will be with you constantly as you enter this next step towards restoring Alivia to good health.
Love The Mikes
God bless you all you responders, and non-responders. If you are praying, we are carried on those blessings. As we begin this trip to Livi's new health we truly treasure your friendship, faithfulness and care. You are all wonderful! Much love, Gretchen (Gigi)
I'm always praying for you, Haugherys. Being one who knows both the Indiana and Lancaster side of your lives, I am in prayer for you constantly. Even though I cannot be there, I pray for the Haugherys, who I know as my family's current pastors, the Allens, who I know as pillars of my first church, and in particular for James, Emily, and Alivia as they have to deal with this trying time. May God be with you, comfort you, strengthen you, and may he heal Alivia through this.
Brandon Minich
45 comments so far! I guess we're listening!
I am praying for Alivia often and am thankful for this 'cool tool' Emily has used so well. May God bless and strengthen you all as you walk through this valley and may Alivia come home healthy and well after this difficult chapter.
Emily, James, and sweet sweet Alivia,
You and your families are in our constant thought and prayers...especially this week. I know of many people in the Reading Sovereign Grace church praying on your behalf. We're not far away...please let us know if there is anything we can do to serve you during this time!
xoxo, The Ross Family
I think it's all been said through words and heartfelt prayers. You guys are much loved and supported. We will keep at it, too, Livi's army. I am proud to be one of her troops.
Super-duper luv to you all.
Lisa
James and Em,
We've got you covered down here in Northern Va- aka: "Land of .5 inches of wintry mix that shuts down the city as soon as it's forecast." I check your blog every few hours and Rach supplements it with what she knows. I've got my family and friends praying right along w/ me. Ask Rachel about what I told her IRT a personal angel that I feel Alivia now has. Stay strong and we've all got your back.
Love and prayers,
Steph
Emily, James and Alivia,
I read the blog everyday! You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Jeremy (Tuba) hasn't taken his baby Livi bracelet off since he has gotten it so many months ago. When you are in the hospital just take a second to think about that beautiful jacket you and kelly got me for Christmas...haha. Hopefully it will put a smile on your face!
Love,
Stephanie (Tuba's Lady)
We love you guys and continue to pray. We look forward to the day when Alivia and Benjamin can play together, without him making her cry!
The Kim's
Both the Haugherys and the Allens are near and dear to our hearts! We read your blog every day and have been - and will be - praying fervently for you all. God has always been faithful to His beloved children and ever will be.
Love from the Charlotte Sweigarts
Hannah loved seeing Livi's picture. She pointed to it and got pretty excited. Maybe she also recognized Livi's sippy cup because she has the same one too!
We're all praying for you.
love,
Viv
I am one of those that is a faithful reader/non-commenter. You are all always in my thoughts. Thoughts and prayers will continue over the next weeks. We will pray for everything to go extremely well.
Natalie Murdick :)
I am a friend of Julie Garner's and found the link to your website from her's. My son developed a mass on his lung at week 4 of gestation, came 7 weeks early at 3 lbs 4 oz, and had to have surgery to remove the entire lower lobe of his left lung when he was only two and a half months old. We became aware of the mass at our 20 week ultrasound, and we kept praying and not understanding why he wasn't immediately healed. I remember the heartache and discouragement along with the glimpse of hope and the promises from God that He was still in control.
I am happy to say that Joshua, our son, is alive and well. The surgery went extremely well, and we literally sensed the presence of angels around him. I also see so much good that has come from the situation. People have been praying for our son and his health ever since he was diagnosed. We treasure our miracle baby more than ever before! In addition, it has brought our extended family closer. More than that, it has made us rely completely on Jesus and put our full trust in Him and not the things of this world. We discovered a new-found relationship with our heavenly Father and creator through the entire situation. What the Devil meant for destruction, God turned around for His glory!
I fully believe that you have the same type of powerful testimony through the victory you are about to realize in this situation. There are many people who love you and are praying for you - and those prayers aren't just for the immediate time but for Alivia's entire life! She is sure to reap blessings she may otherwise not have known because of these prayers due to this situation. May God receive all the glory and praise for the amazing outcome that is about to happen! Blessings to you and your family. We stand with you in faith! Love, Valerie
Emily,
We are forever bonded through our childhood memories, and our families commitment to God. I am so thankful for that. I love you dearly, and am praying for you always. love, leslie M.
i am praying for alivia and family over here in italy!
<3 cori bitterman
I donate platelets every 2 weeks. I do this to contribute to those like Alivia who need them. Alivia will never get any of the platelets I donate, but that's OK. Today the procedure became uncomfortable. I did get the gal to make an adjustment and we continued. It made me think of your little gal and my small un-comfort reminded me to pray for her. A friend and I go every 2 weeks to do this in Johnstown. I will continue as long as I can to help all those "Alivias" out there.
I encourage anyone to do this. It is as easy as giving whole blood and the staff at the J Town center are quite helpful. They have evening hours for those who would need them.
If you would like to try donating in your area, call 1-800-542-5663.
R
As a family we pray for you every night, and I pray for you and your precious daughter every time I think of you during the day. We will keep praying for you.
Melissa Stoltzfus
I have been praying and will continue to pray for your sweet girl. God is so good to remind me to pray for Alivia many times in a day. (I read the blog everyday too!) Thank you for the wonderful example you are of incredible faith in a sovereign and immeasurably good Savior.
Emily and family,
Wanted to let you know that Jer asked me before school today what he could as his classmates to pray for. I told him about the week you had before you. He took your sweet girl and her family with him and together with Grace Christian School in Kittannin PA has laid you all at the foot of the Cross. We all love you, The Kimmels
Emily and family,
Wanted to let you know that Jer asked me before school today what he could ask his classmates to pray for. I told him about the week you had before you. He took your sweet girl and her family with him and together with Grace Christian School in Kittannin PA has laid you all at the foot of the Cross. We all love you, The Kimmels
wow - so many people love you guys.
I am praying for you. Alivia's picture is always the desktop of my computer and i pray and think of her many times a day.
cant wait till this is something from her childhood she knows happened only because you told her about it. im praying for full recovery and long wonderful life after this for Alivia.
i love you three so much,
love
rebekah
With tears in my eyes I sit here wondering what to say. I'm praying for you. Everyone I see, I tell them your story and ask for more prayers. God is the same today as he was the day Alivia was born. His love is the same. His grace is the same. Thank you God for your steadfast mercy for the Haughery/Allen family. And thank you that they can lean on you and each other. God Bless. Kim Cranmer
How can we say "no" to Pa?
Please know that Alivia is in my daily prayers. I'm praying for her, I'm praying for all of you. God bless you guys!
I am so amazed. When I read this post, I looked to see that there were 68 comments already. Wow. You have hundreds (probably more) praying for you all and especially little Alivia. What a wonderful family Alivia has to call her own. God sure has blessed all of us by your posts, your prayer requests, your thankfulness and most importantly your love for our Savior who has time and time again carried you all through this. Praying and then praying more!
Love,
Beth in Joppa, Maryland from the Chespeake Church.
"Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
Psalm 73:25-26
I am sitting beside Ian's bed tonight, and we are lifting you up in prayer. Remember to begin your day tomorrow at the foot of the cross.
love
larissa
Dear Haughery/Allens,
Being technologically challenged, I haven't commented until now, but I have been reading your blog for many months now. In addition to LOLC, I attend a women's Bible study at Graystone Presby.. We are a praying bunch of ladies, some of whom used to work with your dad.
Livi's name (and yours) have been on our pray list every Wed. since we first heard about her condition last spring. Ours prayers are with you, and you are on our hearts.
With love, Mrs. LeBlanc on behalf of the Image Bearers
PS There are ladies in our group who remember when your parents shared with them that they had just found out your mom was pregnant with you, Emily.
To the Haughery Family and the Allens,
I want you to know that you are in my prayers. I have read your blog for the past months and and will continue to do so. I will continue to lift you all up in prayer.
Chris Minich
Seeing the number of posts made me think of this passage of scripture. It is from 2Kings 6, when the prophet, Elisha, was in danger of being captured by the king of Aram.
[15 When the servant of the man of God got up and went out early the next morning, an army with horses and chariots had surrounded the city. "Oh, my lord, what shall we do?" the servant asked.
16 "Don't be afraid," the prophet answered. "Those who are with us are more than those who are with them."
17 And Elisha prayed, "O LORD, open his eyes so he may see." Then the LORD opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.]
All of the people who pray for Livi, all of the people who visit this blog, are a brief glimpse of a bigger, invisible army of God.
This battle is being fought on all fronts and we know the One to whom it belongs. To Him be the glory.
With Love,
Alicia Joy LeBlanc
In God We Trust.
Dear Emily,
My family and I have been keeping up with your Alivia, praying for her and thanking God for His emense grace. My youngest, Clara was born on Feb 13, the same year. I will often look at her and think of you.
We await the day that all is well with Alivia.
Blessings,
Jennifer Good Hanson
Lake Stevens, Washington
Our pastor's message this week was "In God We Trust: Expecting the Best." Guess who I immediately thought of? Please know that you continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. You are surely surrounded by God's loving presence.
Cathy S.
I am guilty of soaking up the encouragement, the faith, the glorious glimpse of the Savior at work in this situation with Livi. How selfish I've been taking these things from your blog and not responding in kind! As I think of what a hero is, each member of your family comes to mind. You inspire me to a greater level of faith in God.
As you continue on this journey with the Lord, I am reminded of Zephaniah 3:17 "The Lord your God is with you, hHe is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you. He will shower you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing." May you feel the undeniable comfort and peace of the Lord during this time.
Mike M.
Emily
What a sweet movie of Alivia you made for Jeremy about his car. He said,
Mom come watch this, and we just watched and smiled. What a cutie! I check your blog probably 2/3 times a day. I will pray many times over the next days ahead for you James Alivia and your families. May your faith be strong and may Gods grace surround you every step of the way.
Carol Landis
James and Emily,
You have been blessed with a faith that is immovable! Your complete dependence on our Saviour is a testimony of His unfailing grace and mercy on your lives.
As you enter into this difficult trial, continue to press into the truth that has sustained you thus far. His words are nourishment for your souls. His promises bring rest and comfort for those who are called heirs.
Alivia... when you are grown, you will see that the Lord has given you a mighty testimony. Your story is a gift to you. It is one that will build faith in many. Your childhood bears the markings of our Saviours love being lavished all over you. His kindness and mercies have kept you thus far; and His mercies will be fresh and knew for you each morning.
Pa and Gigi, Bill and Cynthia... you have been an incredible support for your children and granddaughter. A true example of what grandparenting looks like! Thank you for your example. Pa, thank you for your touching words of encouragement.
During these next several months, my prayer is that you would continue to feel the immeasurable amounts of grace being poured out upon you. I pray that you would experience the peace that passes all understanding. I pray that the doctors would be given an abundance of wisdom and skill during these procedures. I pray that Alivia would experience all the blessings that her heavenly Father has for her. But more importantly, I pray for God's will to be accomplished in each of your lives.
With love and fondness,
lb
I was praying, flipping through my bible and thinking about you all, and thinking about what a source God is. He is a source of comfort, strength, wisdom, refuge, the source of our lives. He puts my heart at ease when I start to worry about Livi. I am so glad God is here and carry you all through the months ahead. Know that I’ll be praying without ceasing and anxiously awaiting September when there is an alternative to the Travel Lodge to be found, when Emily and I can dress alike with out planning it, and when Livi and I can read books about kitties together.
Love to you all.
Love, Erin
My Mom asked me to post here and tell you that she has been praying for you and continues to do so. I am so moved by the response to this request; I know you are crying tears of joy with each comment posted. I'm so glad for you of this response, because you can be sure of the HUGE amount of people....strangers and friends alike...that are praying for your Livi. She has touched so many lives! God is good. May you feel his peace tomororw and for the next several weeks (and long after!)
We love you and are praying for you.
The Parmer Bunch and Dana's Mom!
Wow! As I look over the number of hits you have since Pa made the request for your supporters to write words of encouragement, I realize that over 1000 people have read your blog in the past 24 hours. You been a witness and a blessing to so many others as you have shared your faith. Now you have an army of believers who are standing behind you in this battle. If every person who reads your blog is a member sf a praying family, a prayer group or bible study, or a praying church....you must have thousands of individuals praying for Livi and your family. What an Awesome God we Serve. I pray that you feel God's presence as he carries you through the days and weeks to come and that you are blessed with constant reminders of His endless and abiding love for you and your family.
God Bless
C Curry
Praying for the days and weeks to come. Grateful to be able to trust you to our Savior!
--Andree and Becca (Price) Kless in G'burg Maryland
Hi Haughery's. Wanted you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Recently, our 6 year old, Claudia, told me that she prays for Alivia every night before bed. She prays that God would heal her. We hope and pray that your transplant is smooth and God's healing for baby Alivia.
Love,
Lori Heitland
I am praying for you emily. I am praying that God will give you and James the strength you need to go through this next stage in life. I am praying for his protection on livi during this time. I am praying that the docs will have wisdom. I am praying for a complete healing for your precious livi. You will be in my thoughts and prayers over the next couple months.
lots of love,
moriah
I admire your strength and faith. I pray for healing for Alivia and comfort and peace for all of her family. I know God will be guiding the doctors hands during her transplant. God bless.
James, Emily, Alivia and family,
I want you to know that I will continue to pray for you all in the days ahead for strength and faith in God and a wonderful, healthy future for your precious daughter.
James Maresco
Gaithersburg, MD
You've been in my prayers for the last several months, and will continue to be in my prayers as time goes on. I pray that God will strengthen and uphold you and especially Alivia.
Kiera
I pray for your sweet Alivia often.
After Pa's encouragement to comment, I thought perhaps the Lord might want me to share with you what He taught me today. (from A W Pink’s chapter on the Decrees of God in “The Attributes of God”)
I pray that it encourages you.
We serve a God whose every decree is wise.
I have doubted this, when I cannot reconcile a situation to my notion of what is good and wise. But it is a very small part of God’s works which fall under my observation, yet I must proceed and judge of the whole by the specimen, of what is unknown, by what is known.
"Can you search out the deep things of God? Can you find out the limits of the Almighty? They are higher than heaven- what can you do? Deeper than Sheol- what can you know? Their measure is longer than the earth and broader than the sea.” Job 11:7-9
There are no limits to the Almighty. No limits to His knowledge. His power. His love. It is into this limitless Almighty God’s hands that I entrust you and your sweet Alivia.
Emily, James, Alivia, Allens and Haugherys,
We are joining with the thousands of others who are lifting up your sweet little girl before our Mighty God! I am so aware of the kindness of the Lord to place your family on so many hearts... and the privilege that he gives each of us to pray! I know that He is hugely at work and I can't wait someday to sit down and chat with Alivia ... hear her testimony about the nearness of God during this season in her life... hear her esteem her family and their faith in our Awesome God... and hear her give praise to God for all of the many lives that were touched through reading her story!
We are praying, we are praying, we are praying!
Much love,
The Calvetti Family (Pittsburgh)
Karen keeps me abreast of your goingson about Alivia. I think it's wonderful that you have such a fantastic support network! We're lucky to get 5 comments! Of course, GLA provides 90% of our total comments, which really keep us going.
I understand that Alivia is soon to be getting a transplant. You've already made it this far. I know that you all already have or will be facing challenges of all sorts, but it's encouraging to hear about little girl with so much spunk who is surrounded by nothing but love. You are definitely in our prayers.
Arm yourselves with enough information to stay grounded. Stay positive, never stop fighting, and lift all your burdens and worries up to God (I know, often easier said than done). In comparison to your little one, I'm an old fogey and I'm doing alright...
So go forth on the wings of angels. We are with you.
Joe
James and Emily,
I am a friend of a Julie Garner's and have been following your blog for over a month now. I feel like I know you and your family. Really, we are in the same family - we are all brothers and sisters in Christ! Please know that my husband, 6-month old son, and I are praying for you and your precious Alivia! (Love the bangs, by the way!)
Kristen E.
James, Emily and all the rest of the family. I am another one guilty of reading often but not posting comments. Thank you for allowing us to follow along on your journey with you and see the mighty hand of God at work in your lives!
"The hand of our God is upon all those for good who seek Him, but His power and His wrath are against all those who forsake Him. So we fasted and entreated our God for this, and He answered our prayer." Ezra 8:22b&23.
Several times in both Ezra & Nehemiah you find reference to the "good hand of God" being upon him. Be assured that God's hand is also upon you for good and that His ears are attentive to your prayers. I will be praying often for Livi and all of you in these coming days.
-Ann Gatchell
James, Emily, and Alivia,
Although we do not know you personally, we have known Bill and Cynthia for years. We have been reading your blog for months and have been praying for you.
Isn't it wonderful that we serve a Savior that knows each of us personally and intimately by name. He has foreordained every day before it even has come to pass.
Thank you for the way you have honored the Savior through this trial that He has taken your family through. May His name continue to be glorified through your lives and testimony.
We continue to pray for you!
Tim & Cindy Campbell and Family from Covenant Fellowship in Philly
"That is the way in which faith reasons. It says: 'All right, I see the waves and the billows but'—it always puts up this 'but'. That is faith, it holds on to truth and reasons from what it knows to be fact. That is the way to apply faith… Whatever the circumstances, therefore, stand, wait for a moment. Say: 'I admit it all, but—' But what? But God! but the Lord Jesus Christ! But what? The whole of my salvation! That is what faith does. All things may seem to be against me 'to drive me to despair', I do not understand what is happening; but I know this, I know that God has so loved me that He sent His only begotten Son into this world for me, I know that while I was an enemy, God sent His only Son to die on the Cross on Calvary's Hill for me. He has done that for me while I was an enemy, a rebellious alien. I know that the Son of God 'loved me and gave Himself for me'. I know that at the cost of His life's blood I have salvation and that I am a child of God and an heir to everlasting bliss. I know that… Faith reminds itself of what the Scripture calls 'the exceeding great and precious promises'. Faith says: 'I cannot believe that He who has brought me so far is going to let me down at this point. It is impossible, it would be inconsistent with the character of God'. So faith, having refused to be controlled by circumstances, reminds itself of what it believes and what it knows… Whatever your circumstances at this moment, bring all you know to be true of your relationship to God to bear upon it. Then you will know full well that He will never allow anything to happen to you that is harmful. 'All things work together for good to them that love God.' Not a hair of your head shall be harmed, He loves you with an everlasting love. I do not suggest that you will be able to understand everything that his happening. You may not have a full explanation of it; but you will know for certain that God is not unconcerned. That is impossible. The One who has done the greatest thing of all for you, must be concerned about you in everything."
– Marytn Lloyd-Jones in Spiritual Depression: It's Causes and Cure
Your faith is beautiful...and so encouraging. I have loved reading your blog (from Maryland) and seeing how God is working in your sweet families life. Continue to fight the good fight of faith!
Love Laura
James and Emily,
I check for updates (& new cute pictures) nearly every day. I have Alivia's x-mas picture hanging on my fridge at home as a constant reminder to pray for her. And also because that cutie brings a smile to my face on a daily basis!
Danielle
Haugherys and Allens,
Praying for you all...
Things will change, but God does not nor ever will change. He IS mighty, He IS strong, He IS sovereign, He IS faithful, He IS trustworthy...
2/27 Morning and Evening
“Thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation.”
Psalm 91:9
The Israelites in the wilderness were continually exposed to change. Whenever the pillar stayed its motion, the tents were pitched; but tomorrow, ere the morning sun had risen, the trumpet sounded, the ark was in motion, and the fiery, cloudy pillar was leading the way through the narrow defiles of the mountain, up the hill side, or along the arid waste of the wilderness. They had scarcely time to rest a little before they heard the sound of “Away! this is not your rest; you must still be onward journeying towards Canaan!” They were never long in one place. Even wells and palm trees could not detain them. Yet they had an abiding home in their God, his cloudy pillar was their roof-tree, and its flame by night their household fire. They must go onward from place to place, continually changing, never having time to settle, and to say, “Now we are secure; in this place we shall dwell.” “Yet,” says Moses, “though we are always changing, Lord, thou hast been our dwelling-place throughout all generations.” The Christian knows no change with regard to God. He may be rich to-day and poor to-morrow; he may be sickly to-day and well to-morrow; he may be in happiness to-day, to-morrow he may be distressed—but there is no change with regard to his relationship to God. If he loved me yesterday, he loves me to-day. My unmoving mansion of rest is my blessed Lord. Let prospects be blighted; let hopes be blasted; let joy be withered; let mildews destroy everything; I have lost nothing of what I have in God. He is “my strong habitation whereunto I can continually resort.” I am a pilgrim in the world, but at home in my God. In the earth I wander, but in God I dwell in a quiet habitation.
James, Emily and Alivia,
We pray for you and your families often. We are grateful to God for His steadfast grace and new mercies surrounding you. I thought of you when I read this recently ...
"More than anything else could ever do, the gospel enables me to embrace my tribulations and thereby
position myself to gain full benefit from them. For the gospel is the one great permanent circumstance in which I live and move; and every hardship in my life
is allowed by God only because it serves His gospel purposes in me. When I view my circumstances in this light, I realize that the gospel is not just one piece of
good news that fits into my life somewhere among all the bad. I realize instead that the gospel makes genuinely good news out of every other aspect of my life, including my severest trials. The good news about my trials is that God is forcing them to bow to His gospel purposes and do good unto me by improving my character and making me more conformed to the image of Christ." -M. Vincent
Thank you for your example in using this trial in your life to be more conformed to His image. We respect you greatly.
Love, The Herr's - Brian, Sarah, Hailey, Justin and Sydney
Dear Emily, James, and Alivia,
Since the day I joined the bone marrow registry at your Lancaster drive, my three children and I have been praying for your family. God's faithfulness is so far beyond our understanding, so we trust Him to do exactly what He wants to do in your lives over the next six weeks and beyond. May you have the peace that passes all understanding every day and night. With love, Elizabeth
Dear Friends,
We have been following your journey since Rochelle shared your urgent need for prayer for little Alivia. Many groups at Graystone are praying for Alivia and I know that just as the "Spirit of God hovered over the waters in the beginning, HE IS hovering over your room with you both, for the next 6 weeks.Thank You Jesus!! WE keep you all in our prayers and hearts....
Elaine G.
Emily and James, my husband Miguel and I attend the Sovereign Grace church in Joppa, MD. We have uphelp you in our prayers over the past months and will continue to do so as this process becomes harder. Praying for grace to endure.
Dear Emily, James, Alivia, Allen's and Haughery's,
Thanking God for Alivia and praying for her complete healing. Amazed at God's goodness in knitting so many hearts -across geography and generations- together in a beautiful harmony of prayers.
With love, MarieTrunzoWatters
Emily, James and Alivia,
Your strength is truly inspirational. You have so many people who love and care for you, and continue to pray for your safe (and healthy) return home... but please know there are others who are prepared to be there for you as well-- those who are quietly humbled as we watch you and take hope in your courage. God Bless You All.
Jen Van Buskirk, Jeff Eaton and Callen Wendler.
i am praying for you!!
Christi
Dear Haughery Family,
You have been in our thoughts and prayers for many months now, and we will continue to pray as God walks you through all of this. I pray that He pours forth his grace, mercy, and courage for the days and months ahead. Remember that He cares for you ( more than we understand) and will be there by your side and when it's difficult to walk He will carry you all! Blessings, Dawn Mellinger
James, Emily, Livi, Dave and Gretchen, and the Haughery's. Destiny and I check the blog regularly and are praying fervently. God is bigger than leukemia. We thought you would be blessed to know that teens in my brother's Bible Study are praying for you and Livi every Sunday that we meet. And there's a Christian Business Men's group that I goto that meets on Wednesdays, and we're praying for you there too.
Mike and Destiny
Love you all. You are constantly in my thoughts and prayers.
Jill P.
Indiana
You do not know me but our mutual friend Beth asked that we keep your family in our prayers and ever since then, I check your website every single day. I get a lump in my throat everytime I open your page. You are very strong people and little Alivia is a trooper. My thoughts and prayers are with you this week and always.
Praying for all of you! Just like you said, Our Father is Faithful and has wonderful plans for us...even though we don't always understand them.
God Bless,
Nate and Christie
(Friends of the Clemmers in Lebanon,PA)
Hello Haugherty Family
Your precious little girl has touched my heart deeply. You continue to be in my prayers.
God is so big and He is so faithful. All the time. He promises to NEVER leave us and to give us the strength to bear what happens.
Be encouraged and trust that the God who created all of us holds your daughter in the palm of His hand. He loves her more than anyone on earth ever could. He promises to have a plan for Alivia - a plan for good, to prosper her and a plan for life.
We will continue to pray!
Holly, Dayton, PA
blessed be the name of God and of our Lord Jesus Christ, Sovereign Father Almighty and Merciful Holy Holy Holy One of Israel, God of the Jew and Gentile, bless this family and touch this little one -Alivia- with Your merciful nature of Love and Compassion and Healing touch in the person of the Holy Spirit, taking away all infirmity in Jesus' Mighty Name, allowing for what is being taught to be taught and life to be lived in the Son of God, in the risen Christ Jesus' power through faith and grace amen!
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