Our story began in 1995, Charlie and I were married... we expanded our family in 1998 with the birth of our daughter Hannah. The years that followed we tried to grow our family and the only other time we became pregnant we had a miscarriage. Last December we decided we were meant to be a family of 3 (plus as many animals as Charlie would let Hannah and I rescue) and that we would stop trying to have another child as we celebrated my 40th birthday.
In May, imagine our shock and surprise when we found out we were expecting a child in January 2010. There were nerves, smiles, tears, thankfullness, and much joy. When we started all of the tests, we had passed our first trimester and we had no worries. The first set of screening tests came back fine and when did the final quad screening, we did not expect the results we received from our doctor.
On August 4th we were given the news that our child screened positive for Trisomy 18 (a fatal chromosome disorder) that if our child was born would have a very short life. Trisomy 18 or Edwards Syndrome is the third copy of chromosome 18 created in the cells and impacts organ and growth development. During the following few weeks, we visited several doctors and had a Level 2 Ultrasound and an amniocentesis, we found out that we had been blessed with a son and that our time with him was not going to be what we dreamed. Please know that we will never regret making the decision to make this journey... through all the tears we have laughter and peace, every day is tough - but "little" Charlie is a gift and worth every moment. Our son kicks and moves all of the time and has already let everyone know around us that he is a fighter and he is in this with us.
Our blog is about our hope, our faith and our dreams for our son and our family and for any other family who faces this challenge... we thank everyone for their love, support, and prayers!
He said to them, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."
Mark 10: 14-15
We miss you Baby Charlie...
Always.
Posted by: Annie Hsu | 03/29/2010 at 09:43 AM
Alsie and family.
My brother and his wife lost little Patrick 10 years ago from a premature birth. He was 1 lb and 8 oz when he was born. We had him 8 hours before God took him home. I remember teling Mark I was so sad Patrick did not get to live a full life. Mark looked astonished and told me that Patrick did live the full life that God intended for him. I believe the same is true for your little Charlie. Though his life was short, it was the full live God intended for him. My the Lord be with you and Big Charlie and Hannah as you grieve for little Charlie. We will all wrap you in our love and our prayers until your strength returns and you are able to stand alone. Terri From Colorado Springs
Posted by: Terri Glaude | 01/04/2010 at 03:15 PM
Happy Birthday to Charlie! He will celebrate his birthday with loving arms and kisses from his family. Cherish this blessing and may you hold him close to your hearts forever! It was a special Christmas meeting him at the party. Our prayers are with you, Dawn, Daddy Charlie and Big Sis, Hannah.
Posted by: Kim and Buck Leonards | 12/28/2009 at 11:59 AM
Dawn & Charlie and family,
Alice and John,
May God wrap his arms around you tomorrow as you meet your precious son and grandson. My prayers and love go with you tomorrow and always. Love, Cousin Julia Ann
Posted by: Julia McDowell | 12/27/2009 at 08:46 PM
The Deebs, I look forward to seeing yall in the office, and getting updates on our Charlie. May God give yall continious strength both mentally and phsically. Thank you, for letting us share with you, the joy of Charlie!
(Amy with Dr Jacoby's office)
Posted by: Amy Brown | 11/26/2009 at 11:12 PM
Hi Girlie,
Just wanted to send a quick note to let you know I am thinking about you. You are never far from my thoughts, and always in my prayers. I admire your grace and stregnth. Love ya!!
Becki
Posted by: Becki Girouard | 10/29/2009 at 04:22 PM
Shout outs to my beloved God-baby!
Posted by: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=745463168 | 10/16/2009 at 02:21 PM
Sweetie, you looked awesome today! Charlie was just moving this morning of course drinking Star Bucks Tea. God loves you and so do I! I pray for your family and their continued strength and happiness...What love you have Alise not just what you have to give to your family but others.....You are a true inspiration to all who know you.
Posted by: Rochelle Mitchell | 10/13/2009 at 02:01 PM
Hi there Deeb Family,
Thank you so much for sharing your journey. We love you all & know that God has a special plan for your family. You all are continually in our prayers!!
Hugs, The Girouards
Posted by: Becki Girouard | 10/12/2009 at 05:22 PM
Hi Alise,
the most amazing journey in live is to become a mother. I will keep your and your family in my prayers. I know Charlie and Hannah will support and give you strengh throughout your journey.
Posted by: Roswitha Ried-Korpas | 10/10/2009 at 02:16 PM
Alise -
The courage and strength of your family is amazing. I will be praying that God give you comfort, peace, and joy this morning as you are at the doctor. To me, one of the greatest achievements in life is touching lives of others. Little Charlie has already touched many lives in his journey that your family as well as God have given him. I will continue to pray that God fill the hearts of your family with peace and joy through this journey. I wanted to share a verse with you that I hold onto for peace and comfort especially when I come upon road blocks. I hope if gives you and your family peace as well: Romans 8:28 "And we know all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose."
Posted by: Debbie | 10/09/2009 at 11:14 AM
Hi Alise,Charlie and Hannah, You all the best parents I know and you all are amazing and strong wish you much love Max
Posted by: Maxine Dee | 10/04/2009 at 02:14 PM
All of our love for little Charlie, daddy Charlie, Hannah and especially for the you.
Posted by: Greg Phillips | 10/02/2009 at 11:42 AM
Well, I am sure he did love that Alise! He is so cute. I love the ultrasound picture. Just remember, he is very lucky to have all of you as his family too! I know in my heart that he feels all your love!
Posted by: Kathy Starr | 10/02/2009 at 10:08 AM