Notes from Nana!

Our Haley will soon celebrate her 10th birthday! God has blessed us with this child. Our family appreciates the prayers and support so many who have given on her behalf. As she continues to grow and deal with her life experiences, we ask that you remember her.

This week she will undergo another surgery, this time on her feet. Her surgeries now number in the double digits. When Haley walks with her walker or canes, she drags her feet and is plaqued by toe infections. She also wears out her shoes in less than a month. I was able to find a pair of her favorite tennies yesterday on a great sale. They are black, covered with pink stars and sliver glitter! She has become quite the fashion Icon! Loves bright, outrageous clothes. They make a statement and so does Haley's life. She shines bright in the midst of her physical tribulations, putting most adults to shame over our minor complaints! This Nana has learned much from this child.

I have recently finished a book about Haley, "The Heart of a Child" and we are in process of trying to get it published. The profits from the book will go to help Haley and a portion from each sale will benefit MakeAWish Foundation.

The book includes a reprint of the Chicken Soup article from Chicken Soup for the Nurses Soul, a Second Dose. In the original story, Haley encounters a young boy disfigured by burn scars. It was a chance meeting we believed that was ordained by God. We did not even know the childs last name of have any expectation of meeting him again. This past spring God miraculously brought these two children and their families together again. Haley's book is one of encouragement that uses humor and heart tugging stories such as this to help all who read it to persevere in times of trouble.

Please take the time to pray for Haley. Her needs are both physical and emotional as her condition is ever changing and she is growing into a young lady. We thank God for her strong will, outgoing personality and determination that serves her well. Also pray for her mom, stepdad and siblings. Those who have family members with disabilities understand the unpredictable pressures that accompany such families. There are also pressing financial needs at this time. Haley needs a foldable wheel chair especially suited to her specific needs, that would allow her to be more independent when she is in a position where her motorized wheel chair cannot be used. She misses out on many opportunities to be with friends and family because the motorized chair can only be transported by the family van.

Haley is hoping to take art and music lessons this fall and monies donated to Haley's Heart fund will provide that opportunity for her. Art and craft activities are the things that she is able to do and enjoy especially in times of recovering from surgeries. She has keyboard that she wants to learn to play and she spends time composing songs. Our goal is to help Haley have as normal a childhood as possible. Again, our thanks to all of you who are interesed in this child. We give special thanks to Lynn James and her family and the support and help they give.
You can reach me through barbarahaile.com.