Cheering for Little Joe
Late last fall, we were asked to help a newborn baby boy who had been found with his intestines on the outside of his body (a condition called gastroschisis). We named him “Little Joe,” and he was rushed to the provincial children’s hospital to begin the process of putting everything back where it belonged.
We were all very worried about Little Joe, as part of his intestine had dried out when it was exposed to the elements. The surgeons explained that he could have a much more difficult time than a baby whose organs were immediately protected after birth. But this strong baby boy quickly showed us just how resilient he was.
Joe in the ICU
We were overjoyed when he was able to be discharged from the hospital to our Anhui Healing Home, and he quickly got down to the very important baby business of eating and sleeping as much as possible.
The nannies in the healing home soon began telling us that Little Joe has a personality that is pure sunshine. He has a smile that can light up the entire room.
Joe’s absolute favorite place to be right now is safely in his nanny’s arms. And of course we are very happy to let him have his way!
Today we send our deepest thanks to everyone who supports our work to heal orphaned children. We hope you all realize that it is a group effort and only works because we all come together to change the lives of children in need.
Isn’t Joe the most wonderful little miracle? Because of your support, we are able to immediately say “Yes — we will help!” and move babies for emergency treatment without delay.
Just look at the contentment and joy on Little Joe’s face. YOU made that possible, and there just aren’t words to say how grateful we are!
