A special little girl needs your prayers
In the coming days, weeks, and months, we are asking you to join us in fervent prayer for a very special little girl and her mother. Their journey is one of heartache, perseverance, and hope—and it reminds us of the power of prayer and God’s providence.
A MEETING THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING
During a ministry trip to the Central African Republic a couple of years ago, I met a little girl who was desperately ill. She suffered greatly, and all her grieving mother could do was hold her close. My heart broke as I realized how limited my options were.
At that time, Julie’s Heart Cry was able to provide pain medication and antibiotics—small but lifesaving steps. Beyond that, I felt helpless. I carried the weight of that encounter with me long after I left.
What I didn’t know then was that God was already writing the next chapter of her story.
GOD’S PROVIDENCE AT WORK
Fast forward two years. Through God’s providence, a compassionate doctor from the U.S. visited Irene’s Home of Hope/City Light in Bangui. Immediately, I asked our in-country director of Julie’s Heart Cry to arrange for this little one to be seen. That simple step opened the door to a series of tests—X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, and blood work—that revealed the heartbreaking truth: a growing tumor deep in her throat at the base of her tongue.
Soon afterward, medical professionals from around the world began volunteering their expertise. During Zoom calls that crossed time zones, a team joined forces to consider humanitarian options and treatment possibilities for Natasha (name changed to protect her identity), now a precious seven-year-old.
CLOSED DOORS, OPEN DOORS
The path forward was not easy. With medical resources extremely limited in Bangui, we began searching for hospitals abroad. For a time, it seemed that a hospital in San Diego might be able to take her. The possibility lifted our spirits, but with costs exceeding $15,000 and other logistical challenges, that door closed.
But when one door shuts, God has a way of opening another. And this time, it came through an organization in Rwanda that agreed to provide Natasha with a medical evaluation and possibly surgery. On Sept. 17, Natasha and her mother will take this next courageous step in their journey.
STANDING WITH NATASHA
We now invite you, our faithful supporters, to stand with Natasha, her mother, and our director Michael as they prepare to travel to Rwanda. This journey is filled with unknowns, but also with great hope.
Please join us in praying for:
Wisdom for the doctors and medical team.
Strength and peace for Natasha’s mother, who carries a heavy burden.
Safe travels and provision every step of the way.
Comfort and calm for my own heart, as I so desperately wish I could be there alongside them.
UPDATE
We have wonderful news to share!
After carefully reviewing all of Natasha’s test results, the team of six doctors in Rwanda confirmed that her surgery can be done right in Kigali. They even shared that a child with a very similar condition was successfully operated on there—a tremendous encouragement for us all.
A surgery date will be set for one month from now.
In the meantime, Natasha, her mom Jasmine, and Michael, the director of JHC, will return to the Central African Republic before going back for the procedure.
Jasmine shared that she feels at peace and is hopeful that her daughter will soon enjoy a healthy and normal life. This is truly a miracle in the making, as the tumor growing in Natasha’s throat is life-threatening.
We give all glory to the Lord and thank each of you, our JHC supporters, for your faithful prayers and encouragement. Please continue to stand with us as we prepare for the next phase of this journey.
Stay tuned! God is at work!