She has only been with us a few months but it seems like she has always been part of our family. Zoe is my four year old granddaughter; the daughter of Tori & Derek Jones (my daughter & son-in-law). Her name not only means life but she is FULL of life. While the other grandkids refer to me as Tato, she refers to me as Cha-Cha for reasons known only to her.

Her beautiful dark Ethiopian skin, brown eyes, and pearly white teeth really set her aside in a family full of blondes and blues. She has a laugh that is infectious, a smile that is contagious, and she is as quick as a cheetah. So how could any such child possibly need medical attention?

A few days ago during a routine physical the doctor spotted something that caused him concern. He scheduled additional tests for Zoe which led to even more test. Bottom line is Zoe is now scheduled for surgery on October 27 at Vanderbilt Children’s Hospital. It appears that 75% of her stomach has pushed it way into her chest through a hole in her diaphragm. While this is not a life threatening situation at this time it is something that has to be corrected immediately. So once again our family could really use your prayer support. The doctor has told us to prepare for a least a five day stay in the hospital, so her first Halloween may be courtesy of VCH which I understand throws a great party for their kids.

That same week Carrie is expecting her fourth child, Lucie, who is due to make her arrival also at Vanderbilt. So as you are praying would you please consider placing our family on your prayer list? We do believe in prayer. Already we can see the hand of God in the fact that Zoe is here and can get the medical attention she needs, so we are counting our blessings even as we face our challenges. Blessings to all.

Rick