Some of you may wonder why I blog so much during this ordeal. Quite frankly, I eat, breathe and sleep Gracie and this blog helps me feel connected to her when I am home at night or even when I am by her side in the hospital. This is my journal of every detail of her life to remember always. I was a journal writer when I was young and into my young adulthood. I think it helps me deal with challenging times in my life.
Dr. K was here this morning and decided to go in again and wash out Gracie's chest because of the bleeding. He also turned down the flow on the ECMO machine to see if her little heart would take over and do some of the work.
It didn't.
Her little heart is just not going to recover. We are out of second chances. They have done all they can do. Her body is wearing out.
If it were up to me, I would keep Gracie on ECMO for a month just to see her sweet face, touch her delicate hand or rub her cute little toes. But we have to let our sweet girl go, for her sake. Luckily, it is not a decision we had to make. She made it for us. She is not in pain but her body is suffering.
She is still having a tremendous amount of bleeding. Her body has had enough. Our hearts are aching.
We came home tonight and had a little family council. What a difficult thing to tell your children that this time, for sure, Gracie is not coming home. To see the tears on my children's cheeks is almost too much to bear. I knew a long time ago that if Gracie passed away that it would be difficult for Tom and I, but I DREADED dealing with three grieving children. Two mornings ago Max asked me first thing when he woke up, "Mom, how long does MOURNING last?" I told him that it can last a long, long, time. After our meeting tonight Max made Gracie a sign that said "We Love You Gracie" with a big red heart to take with us to the hospital tomorrow. I think she will like it.
So tomorrow is a very dreaded day. The day most parents hope they will never have. The one where they say goodbye to their little one for this lifetime. In the morning, we are going to take the kids up to say goodbye then they will be taken home while Tom and I stay up there for however long we feel we need to.
We have come full circle. The reason I say that is because one week ago we got the call that we thought would change our lives for the better, forever.
It wasn't to be.
Now, we have the chance to donate some of Gracie's organs. Wow, what an experience.
Because of this, we won't get to be with her after her passing like we would want to. Our donor family didn't get to do that either. I envisioned being able to hold her for as long as I wanted to after her passing but you can't do that when you are an organ donor. They will let us be there when she passes but will have to take her immediately to the operating room. I feel like it's the least we can do. We are so grateful for the family that gave our daughter a new chance at life. We hope that Gracie can do that for someone else too.
Thank you for the tremendous outpouring of love and support to our family. We feel the peace that your prayers are bringing into our lives.
WE LOVE YOU GRACIE GIRL!! You have changed our lives for the better and we will strive to live our lives in a way that we can see you again in heaven. You have been a pure blessing, an absolute treasured gift.
Dr. K was here this morning and decided to go in again and wash out Gracie's chest because of the bleeding. He also turned down the flow on the ECMO machine to see if her little heart would take over and do some of the work.
It didn't.
Her little heart is just not going to recover. We are out of second chances. They have done all they can do. Her body is wearing out.
If it were up to me, I would keep Gracie on ECMO for a month just to see her sweet face, touch her delicate hand or rub her cute little toes. But we have to let our sweet girl go, for her sake. Luckily, it is not a decision we had to make. She made it for us. She is not in pain but her body is suffering.
She is still having a tremendous amount of bleeding. Her body has had enough. Our hearts are aching.
We came home tonight and had a little family council. What a difficult thing to tell your children that this time, for sure, Gracie is not coming home. To see the tears on my children's cheeks is almost too much to bear. I knew a long time ago that if Gracie passed away that it would be difficult for Tom and I, but I DREADED dealing with three grieving children. Two mornings ago Max asked me first thing when he woke up, "Mom, how long does MOURNING last?" I told him that it can last a long, long, time. After our meeting tonight Max made Gracie a sign that said "We Love You Gracie" with a big red heart to take with us to the hospital tomorrow. I think she will like it.
So tomorrow is a very dreaded day. The day most parents hope they will never have. The one where they say goodbye to their little one for this lifetime. In the morning, we are going to take the kids up to say goodbye then they will be taken home while Tom and I stay up there for however long we feel we need to.
We have come full circle. The reason I say that is because one week ago we got the call that we thought would change our lives for the better, forever.
It wasn't to be.
Now, we have the chance to donate some of Gracie's organs. Wow, what an experience.
Because of this, we won't get to be with her after her passing like we would want to. Our donor family didn't get to do that either. I envisioned being able to hold her for as long as I wanted to after her passing but you can't do that when you are an organ donor. They will let us be there when she passes but will have to take her immediately to the operating room. I feel like it's the least we can do. We are so grateful for the family that gave our daughter a new chance at life. We hope that Gracie can do that for someone else too.
Thank you for the tremendous outpouring of love and support to our family. We feel the peace that your prayers are bringing into our lives.
WE LOVE YOU GRACIE GIRL!! You have changed our lives for the better and we will strive to live our lives in a way that we can see you again in heaven. You have been a pure blessing, an absolute treasured gift.
508 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 401 – 508 of 508My friend Mimi posted about your sweet family. I can't imagine the pain you must feel. Know that Heaven is rejoicing to greet your sweet Gracie. This is a celebration day more wondrous than we can possibly imagine, since here we are left with sorrow beyond belief. My brother and his wife had to make the agonizing decision to take their sweet girl off of life support more than 15 years ago- and they miss her every day. I hope that you can feel strengthened by the people who love you and by the Lord, who has brought your story to so many believers. We heart Gracie!
Dear Gledhill Family,
Words cannot adequately express our sorrow for your family today. Thank you for sharing your story of sweet Gracie for all of us to read. Many, many people have been changed by watching your sweet angel endure this life. Although we prayed and fasted for a miracle yesterday, I guess it wasn't meant to be. We now pray that you will feel the Savior's arms wrapped around you as you say good-bye to your sweet little girl. May you feel her spirit close by as the angels usher her into heaven where she will watch over you from above. You are an eternal family and now that means more than anything - you will see your sweet Gracie again. We pray that you will feel peace and comfort.
Love,
The Anderson Family
Alan, Kristi, Parker, Ashleigh and Carter (ASD, VSD, PDA, Down Syndrome)
WHAT A CHOICE YOU HAVE HAD TO MAKE. GRACIE IS ONE LUCKY GIRL TO HAVE GOODLY PARENTS AND SIBLINGS. SHE WILL BE YOURS TO RAISE IN THE HEREAFTER. MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOU. I LOVE YOUR BLOG. PLEASE CONTINUE AND THEN LET US KNOW HOW TO JOIN YOUR PRIVATE BLOG. YOU HAVE TOUCHED ONE LURKERS HEART FOR THE BETTER. SANDY MERRILL
I came upon your blog through the Simmons blog. Oh my heart aches for the loss of life here on earth with your daughter Gracie. Isn't wonderful to have the knowledge we have that you can be with Gracie again. I loved that you shared this, I had tears streaming down my face as I read. I appreciate hearing your strength and love in your writing. And will pray for your family as you go through this experience, this journey of life right now! Thanks again so much.
Wow, I see how much Gracie is loved by the enormous amount of comments left here. My son has HLHS also, and although I have never been in your shoes, I do know the pain of having a sick child and watching them suffer, and almost losing them. I don't know the pain you are going through right now though, but I can say that I will be praying for you and your family. Gracie is such a beautiful little girl, and I know she will be missed.
God bless,
Millie and Colin-HLHS
I am so incredibly sorry that you all are going through this. I have been following your blog for several months because of my neighbor. Her sister-in-law is a good friend of yours. Gracie has so touched our lives and the lives of so many. She has been an inspiration to us all! I just cannot begin to express the heartfelt sympathy and emotions I'm feeling for your family. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers in this tremendously difficult time for you.
I am so sorry to hear this. A friend of ours son was born with the same condtion and died when he was 4 months after his second surgery. His mother has done many wonderful things in his name as this was their only child. I pray for your family in this time of need. She has a website set up in case you ever want to see it. www.jordanhackett.org
This has to be one of the most heart breaking posts I have ever read. I pray for you and your family...for the longs years ahead...until you meet your sweet little Gracie again.
I've been thinking about your family all day. I'm sure the Comforter is with you but know you have thousands here on earth praying for your family as well.
Thank you for being such a strong example of faith in the plan of salvation.
We will continue to pray for your family.
Each life that touches ours for good. Gracie is a gift and your story of faith has touched us all for good. May God continue to be with you always.
I came across your blog this morning for the first time. As I read. I don't know what else to say other than, I'm sorry your family is having to go through this. I'm amazed by the strength you have and your ability to try to see the best in a very sad situation. I admire your decision to donate Gracie's organs to hopefully give another baby a chance at a better life. I'm praying that your family finds strength in each other and God to get through this immense pain and sadness. May your families memories of your shortened time on Earth with Gracie be happy and stay with you forever! You are all in my prayers.
With love and prayers from Miami, FL.
Elisabeth
My prayers are with you and your family. What a story you have told it touches me deeply. May you feel at peace at this time. Thank you for this lovely "journal". Good Luck in the days, weeks and months and years to come. I have enjoyed checking in daily and will feel a void by not. God Bless you and your family.
J. Bingham from Idaho
Thank you for sharing Gracie's story with us. We're all humbled today-not to mention the perspective-I think we're all enjoying the simpler things today-for myself, it's in the form of a new found patience for my 3-yr-old who won't go to sleep tonight.
Thank you for your strength. My deepest prayers and sympathies go out to you and your family tonight.
Blessings and love from snow-covered NH.
Sabrina, Paul, Sienna and Luna
Dear Gledhill Family,
You don't know us, but we feel like we know you. We are so saddened that you must say goodbye to your precious Gracie for now, but are greatful for a wonderful plan that allows families to be together forever. Gracie's life on earth has been so important, to bring so many people to their knees in prayer. We are grateful you have shared her with us, and pray that you will feel comforted by the prayers of so many who strive to bear one another's burdens. We will continue to pray for comfort for your family.
Sincerely,
Dave and Gretchen Brown and Family
You are in my thoughts and prayers!
My heart is aching for you and your sweet family. We have been praying for Gracie ever since she was born. She has brought our family closer as we have prayed for her and your family each and every night. May the spirit of the Lord be with you and your family during this difficult time. Thank you so very much for letting so many of us be apart of your sweet Gracies life. Even though I did not get a chance to meet her, she has truly been a blessing to me in my life. Thank you Gracie for your sweet spirit.
Much love to you and your family.
Carrie and Philip Valadez
I have read your blog for months, and came across it through a friend. I have cried many tears for your sweet family. May you find some sort of comfort in knowing just how special your sweet Gracie Girl is and forever will be. I know that she has touched my life more than I thought was possible, from a baby I have never met. She has made me hug my daughter a little tighter at night and treasured her little moments. I am confident that you will see your little princess again one day and be able to live those moments with her in heaven. May the angels welcome her home and surround her with love and laughter. As I walked outside tonight thinking of your sweet angel, I looked up and saw the most beautiful PINK sky, as the sun set. I do not know if she has yet left this earth, but I have a feeling she is already home brightening up the heavens, making it the most loveliest place to be with her sweet smile. I am praying for your adorable family and hope you know how special you are to have had this darling and shared her with so many.
but who would have thought that somebody so small could have an impact so great on the lives of so many for good. The hearts of so many people have been softened and are turning to the Lord because of Gracie.
"when such a friend from us departs, we hold forever in our hearts a sweet and hallowed memory, bringing us nearer, Lord, to thee." ~Each Life That Touches Ours for Good~ hymn 293
I's so sorry for your loss.
Tom and Michele,
I admire both of you and your family, and the strength you all have shown this past year. I can't imagine the range of emotions you have felt. Thank you for sharing Gracie and your experiences with us all. Your family is always in our thoughts and prayers every day.
Alan
Your family is and always will be a Forever Family. I don't know you, but you have touched my life. Thank you for reminding me to cherish every moment I have with my own children. Heavenly Father will bless little Gracie and your family!
Thank you for sharing your story. I found your link on another friend's blog. I am praying for you tonight in Nashville, TN. May God's sweet peace be comfort to your souls tonight. This little one is so blessed to be loved as you have loved her. That's how our God loves His children. Rest in that.
I have not stopped thinking about you all day! I can't believe what today has felt like, knowing what you have been going through. I hope that you can hold each other tighter tonight and cherish the cute smile that Gracie has shared with the world. I am a complete stranger to you, yet feel compelled to follow this journey and learn from it every day. Thank you and I'm so sorry you are going through all of this. May peace and comfort be yours over the upcoming hours and days. Love, Marshelle
425 comments?! What eleven month old little girl has ever had this many friends? Her life has been a gift and blessing to all, her pretty face and sweet spirit will be remembered by so many. Bless you this night, we pray.
What a great example you are. "As I have been given much, I to must give." That is exactly what you are doing. I can't even imagine the pain and hurt you are feeling to go through this trial. My family will only have the best thoughts and prayers for your family as you let your "Heart Gracie" return to a better place. I do not know you, but I do know that Heavenly Father will connect our prayers to you, your family, and your little Gracie.
God Bless You!
The Solen Family
I am so sorry for this trial in your life. May Heavenly Father bless you with the comfort you so desperately need and your family. Thank you for sharing this story. We heart Gracie!!!
Oh Michele ~ I am sitting here reading your post with tears streaming down my face. Little Gracie is adorable...what a difficult thing for you to have to deal with. I found your blog from Kelly's and Harper...I will pray tonight for you and your family.
God bless,
Michele (weird...there's not many Michele's that spell it like we do!)
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I don't know you, I have a friend who is a teacher with my teacher friend in California . Our tiny foster baby just passed into heaven on Friday from her a-v canal repair. Everything went wrong and she was on the vent for seven weeks. She died in my arms and I'm so grateful to the Lord that she is no longer suffering. May the Lord be with you and your family as your Gracie girl enters into heaven. God bless your family. With love, Cindy
Dear Gledhill Family,
Almost a year ago we brought home our son Kai from China (Tetralogy of Fallot) who we believe had been repaired. He had not and was immediately just 2 rooms down from Gracie in the PICU.
I was stressing that it was spring break and I had already been away from my kids for 2 weeks while we were in China. That doesn't compare to the month that you had been away from yours at that time and that is why we didn't meet in the hospital.
We did meet at Target and I am so glad that we did.
Thank you for sharing Gracie's story. It has been beautiful.
Love
Kim Brown
I am so touched by reading your story. I am so grateful for this "blogging world" so we can share our stories and grow from each other...even strangers. Gracie is a beautiful little girl and although I can not understand to the fullest what you are going through, I can tell you that I know you will be blessed and will have the strength to help you family get through this. ...which it already seems you do. You're spririt is amazing. Thanks for sharing it. Sending prayers from Layton.
Dear Gledhill family,
I read your blog for the first time today and couldn't stop thinking about what you must be going through. You have amazing strength and faith. My hope for you and your sweet family is that you can feel the love of the Savior and know that you will be reunited with your sweet Gracie. Thank you for reminding me to cherish every moment with my kids.
Sara in Wisconsin
no profound words.
peace be with you.
prayers are being said in your behalf.
your Heavenly Father loves you.
I found your blog a while ago through a friends', and have checked periodically on Gracie. I am so sorry that things have turned out this way. I just wanted to let you know that you have been, and will continue to be in my prayers.
I found your blog from a post from Mimi's blog. And there isn't anything I can possibly add to the other 433 comments. All I can say is there is a young mommy of three girls in Utah that is thinking of you and your family tonight. I pray you and your children are able to have some sense of comfort and peace at this time. And may God bless you for your completely selfless gift of Life for another child. Gracie will always be loved and remembered
I have been reading your blog. I am truly sorry you have had to go through all this. Gracie will be a very special angel for all you. Maybe you have her spirit with you throughout all time! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Tom, Michele and family...
As you can see by the amount of comments that have been left, your Gracie is a very special little girl! She has touched lives all over the world and I am proud to say that I am one of those people. I fell in love with her the first time I saw her picture and feel privileged that I was able to follow along on her journey. Please know that as you face the difficult days, weeks and months ahead, I will continue to keep your family in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you all…
Your ability to express your emotions in a raw and very honest way touches us so deeply. We love your little Gracie, and your family so very much! Know that our faith and prayers are being poured out in your behalf.
Abby's Family (HLHS, Heterotaxy, Aspleenia)
I found your blog through a good friend of mine who is also a heart mommy. I am very touched by little Gracie's life. I wish I had some words to ease your pain. I wish I could say it will get better. I wish little Gracie didn't have to return to her Heavenly Father so soon...all I can say is that I will pray for you and your family. I will pray you find comfort and peace in the midst of all this sadness. It's obvious from reading your blog and all the hundreds of comments that follow, that Gracie touched the lives of so many people. Her mission continues as she serves with her Heavenly Father now. "We Heart Gracie".
PS May you always feel her powerful spirit lifting, guiding, inspiring, and watching over you!!!
Your sweet words have touched my heart and change the way I look at life. She is so beautiful! You are in my prayers.
Kristi Hill
You don't know me, but I was told about your family, and my heart is aching for you at this time. I'm sorry for your loss.... so sorry. I want you to know that I am so inspired by your faith and endurance through all of this. May you continue to feel His spirit, and know that He's been with you through it all... every single amount of pain and heartache... He's been through it. He's there for you. And now she's there with Him, in the best company imaginable! Thank you for sharing your story with us... may you feel His continued peace.
Your family have been in my thoughts for the last week as I have been watching your blog. I pray that you will always feel the comfort and peace that is available from our Heavenly Father. I am thankful for sweet Gracie because she has reminded me to love a lot strong, hug more often and NEVER take for granted the health and lives of my children. Thank you for sharing so openly with all of us. This experience has also opened my eyes and heart to organ donation, what a wonderful gift to give. I know you will always cherish your time Gracie and that you will always look forward to the day when you can hold her again.
I am so sorry. CHDs are such an ugly disease.
Your aunt (I think she said Gracie was her new neice) sent me your blog...when my DH was last at her home...
I am so very sorry....there just are not words.
I've watched and followed your blog after "a year from oak cottage" first mentioned it. I've shed more tears both happy and sad, than I thought possible, for a family I've never met. Gracie's touched so many souls and one day you will all be together again, in our heavenly fathers embrace and I hope that one day, I can kiss the hand of angel Gracie, until we meet.
Jen
My heart aches for you and your family, but what an amazing gift you are giving to someone right now. May you feel the Lord's love and his presence through all of this.
praying for you tonight.
Praying for you and your family. I don'y know you but your story tugs at my heart, can't imagine where you are tonite. As a mommy I can not even begin to think of losing a child. The decision you have made is a very selfless to give life back to other families offering them a chance....and although she will always live in each of you part of her physical body will be with another child what an amazing gift. I'm sure your litle Gracie would approve of your decision. You will remain in my thoughts and prayers.-Sherry Lawson
My heart breaks for your family. I have followed your blog for a while. This post just breaks my heart and I am so sad for your family. May time heal your hearts and memories of Gracie fill them. I am praying for your family.
Love,
Brooke
Sending many prayers of comfort and peace for your family.
Quinneys
(mom to Bryson IHH)
We are praying for your family tonight - I hope that God's Infinite Peace finds you and encircles you in the coming time. So much love is shared here - I pray that this helps you carry on and helps carry Gracie to her forever home in Heaven. God Bless you.
Oh my goodness.I just found your blog today through Kelly's blog.My heart is absolutely broken for your family.Your sweet Gracie girl is so beautiful.May Jesus hold you in his arms in the coming days.Love~Tasha in Indiana
What a glorious day for Gracie! She is in the loving arms of her Savior- never to taste of pain again. In President Uckdorfs talk he states "if we could only look beyond the horizon of mortatlity into what awaits us beyond this life, we would be able to imagine a more glorious future that has been prepared for us by our Heavenly Father." He then goes on to say- No matter how bleak the chapter of our lives may seem today- because of the life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ- we may hope and be assured that the ending of the book of our lives will exceed our grandest expectations. 1 Corintians 2:9 tells us “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family this day.
I couldn't help but feel the need to comment after my sister shared this with me on Facebook.
Gracie must have been such a wonderful child, striving to live each and every single day. I feel like I've known her all my life, and I just happened upon your blog tonight.
I am so very sorry for your loss. To know the struggle she's gone through for an entire year is amazing. She's put up with more than I could ever possibly encounter in my lifetime. I know the pain of her passing hurts now, but just knowing her strength through this painful time helps ease it, and when it's time to see her again she'll welcome you, like the Holy Father, with open arms.
Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free
I'm following the path God laid for me
I too His hand when I heard Him call
I turned my back and left it all
I could not stay another day
To laugh To love To work or play
Tasks left undone must stay that way
I found that place at the close of day
If my parting has left a void
Then fill it with remembered joy
A friendship shared, A laugh, a kiss.
Ah yes, these things, I too will miss
Be not burdened with times off sorrow
I wish you the sunshine of Tomorrow
My life's been full I savored much
Good friends, Good times, A loved one's touch
Perhaps my time seemed all to brief
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief
Lift up your heart and share with me
God wanted me now, He set me free
My heart goes out to you and your family ! Please let me know if there is anything I can do ! I will keep you and your family in ours prayers !
To the Gledhill family:
I don't know you personally, but I have a heart baby also. Oh, how my heart aches for you and your family. I can't imagine how you feel right now. May the Lord bless you and your family as you let your little baby go back to the Lord tomorrow. I will keep you all in my prayers.
I am so sorry.
Marty Evans
Hello from Michigan. My name is Sarah and I have been following your family and praying for you ceaselessly. I am so sorry that you have to make a decision like this.
Now I pray that the Lord lifts you up and holds you tightly. You have inspired me with your strength.
Thank you for sharing your story. Thank you for courageously loving your daughter.
Thank you for striving to follow God and to love whatever life has given you.
Gracie, God bless you and keep you safe until your family can be reunited with you in Heaven again.
What a sweet sweet girl. I am so sorry. I know Heavenly Father loves you and I hope you feel Him close. We send our love and our thoughts to you...
The Homers
Alex's family
My heart is so heavy today and I ache for your family. You are all in my prayers.
when I heard the news of your sweetheart Gracie - my heart began to break. I wish I had the words to express the exact feelings and emotions I am feeling right now but they seem to have left me. I want to let you know that I am going to continue to pray for sweet Gracie, you and your family - I'm so happy to have been able to follow her story, knowing her story has made me a better person. I will be thinking of you all, always. Kate Woodham (Aunt of sweetheart Mary Clare Pennington, HLHS)
I shared your story with my husband when he got home from work and he and I are both so touched by your family and the strength you have shown. Gracie is such a special girl!!! You have lost a wonderful person in your lives, but heaven has gained a wonderful person!! She has great work to do on the other side of the veil. (btw, I am Natalie Petersen's second cousin-in-law...I think that's the relation.)
Hang in there...that's all you can do sometimes.
Gracie, you've made a difference in our lives and we never even met you!
I just came upon your blog this morning, and I have spent the whole day catching up on Gracie's story. My heart aches for you so bad. Your family will be in my prayers. Your faith is amazing. Your Gracie girl is so beautiful, I love her smiles it's very contagious. What a joyful day it will be when you get to see your girl again and hold her and she will be able to tell you all of her stories of hanging out with Jesus and running up and down the streets of gold. Thank you for sharing her story.
Love Grace
Northern California.
May you find peace at this incredibly difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers
I am just another person who found you blog through a friend's but I have been following sweet Gracie since she was 6 weeks old. I am so very sorry for your loss, I can't imagine the pain you and your family must be feeling. I hope that tomm your family may find peace and be comforted in knowing that Gracie has returned to our Heavenly Father. Your family has and will continue to be in my prayers.
Gracie has touched my life and made an everlasting impression on my heart. Our prayers are with you and every member of your family tonight. We heart Gracie!!!!!
I pray you all feel God's loving arms around you giving you peace, comfort, and strength. I cant imagine what your going through, I have been praying for your daughter and the rest of your family since the transplant. God bless you all.
C.O.L.E. Prayer Team
www.colesfoundation.com
-
You've been in my prayers since I found your blog. I am devastated for you and your husband and sweet children. Thank you for her sweet picture at the top of the blog. Her eyes shine right off the screen. What a beautiful baby girl.
I am so sorry. I am praying for sweet Gracie and your family. My heart aches for you right now.
I am deeply saddened by what you must be going through right now. I cannot even begin to imagine what you must feel. The strength you have shown over the past 11 months has been unbelievable. You are an amazing family and I know you will be blessed because of your faith and love for the Lord. Gracie has been an inspiration to many that you don't even know (including me.) I have loved hearing her story. I have come to realize how short our time truly is on this earth and have made it a personal goal this year to make sure I personally tell everyone I love how grateful I am for them. I pray for you and for your children that somehow through this trial you may find peace in your hearts and comfort in your souls. May the Lord love and bless you this night and always and may Gracie live on forever in the hearts of the many people you have allowed her to touch. Thank you for your example and testimonies.
With love,
Allie Bruce
I know you have a lot of comments on here already, but I just wanted to say that you guys are in my thoughts and prayers, I have been following Gracie's blog for a while now (from Kaidence's) Sweet little Gracie has touched so many lives. Thank you so much for sharing your Gracie girl through this blog for all of us.
Gracie has touched our family's lives forever. We learned of Gracie from the Pettit's and we have prayed and fasted for little Gracie and your family continually and have read and anticipated all of your updates during this journey. My husband has found me at the computer numerous times crying for your sweetheart. We pray for comfort for you, Tom, and the children during this unimaginable time. Gracie has touched so many lives and I will never forget her or the amazing gift she is! Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
Dear Gledhill family,
I am Leslie Smith's sister in law. My husband and I have read about little Gracie through Leslie's blog. You and your family are an inspiration and so is little Gracie! We have a son who has multiple disorders and we are at the doctor monthly, sometimes weekly because of this. Reading your posts have given me such strength because it makes me realize how much I would miss those weekly appointments if our son wasn't in our life. Your positive outlook reflects your knowledge of Christ and the other side of the veil. It is so refreshing in a world where this is so often forgotten. I am glad that Gracie was able to donate to others - you are probably one of the very few (if any) families that have experienced being both the recipient and giver of an organ. What a blessing. Our prayers are with you as you say goodbye,
Julie and Carlos Sanches
I just found your blog through Kelly's Korner. My heart breaks for you losing your sweet daughter. I also have a daughter named Grace and I share a birthday with your sweet Gracie, so it definitely tugged at my heartstrings. What a brave and selfless decision you have made to donate her organs. I'm sending prayers up to heaven for you all tonight...for comfort and peace and strength. God bless your whole family.
~Jessica
i've been there. made the decision to take my children off life support because nothing else could be done...
i dont have any words that will take you through those moments. i am praying for you, my heart is hurting with you...
may god grant you the strength, the peace, the comfort to get through tomorrow. i am so, so sorry...
Tom and Michele, I am so sorry for your loss. Gracie has changed a lot of lifes is truly a miracle. She is in a better place now and is whole and healthy again. Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. Michele, I admire your strengh for writing on this blog...I can not imagine what you and your family have gone through in this last year. Again, I only know Tom and we have only met once. Through this blog I have come to admire you as a wife, mother, friend and an amazing writer! May the Lord bless you and your beautiful family.
Best Regards,
Michelle Harris
Dear Tom and Michele:
He was handsome and tall
In his dark blue suit
He was gentle and kind in his dark blue suit
He gave me a blessing with a vision of heaven
He told me in words what he saw.
As he spoke the heavens were quiet
Yes, quiet with reverence and awe
He told me of fasting and prayers
He made me feel like a queen
He talked of people who love me
Though by them, I’ve never been seen
He said I’d be loved wherever I go
Whether on earth or in heaven
He did not know, but he said
I’d go where I needed to grow
I saw the men strong
With their priesthood might
There was a glow that came
It came by heavenly light.
They placed their arms in
Front of each other
The priesthood was strengthen
From brother to brother
He stood so firm and humble and true
He’s the one I chose, that one in blue
He’s the best that heaven has, I might add
I know that for sure, because he’s my Dad!
I wrote this late in the night after Gracie Jean Gledhill received her
Name and a blessing from her Dad, Thomas Rhett Gledhill
I love you all my dearest family. Grandma Katherine (Gledhill) Wiser
That poem was absolutely beautiful Grandma Wiser! what a wonderful tribute to this precious baby girl. My heart aches for you tonight and I am praying that you are okay and that the angels are near. I am so sorry for this hard day you have had. You have taught me so much and I will never forget it. Thank you!
I love your blog. Thankyou. Gracie touches lives. she has touched mine.
I have only been following your sweet baby for a short time. She is already an angel...... I can't even imagine how broken hearts are huting for your sweet Gracie Girl.
Please know that so many have been touched and we are praying for strength and peace. Thank you for the allowing another family the chance to give their baby life by donating Gracie's organs. I am so sorry that in doing so you were not allowed to rock and hold her.
Came by from Kelly's Korner...praying for your family.
Praying for your family tonight and in the future. May God's grace be known to you as never before.
Thank you for sharing Gracies life with all of us. I have been so touched and forever changed because of her. We are praying for your family and hoping you can feel our love.
Dear Gledhill Family,
I have been thinking about you all day, with a prayer in my heart as my children and I went about our "normal" lives. The key, indeed, is remembering how precious those everyday moments are. I know you would give anything to have it all back! Thank you for reminding me once again to cherish the little things and my small ones. You are truly heroic. All of you.
My sister wrote a song in honor of the sister we lost a year ago after a double lung transplant. The words still bring me comfort. May they provide a small measure of solace to you as well.
The breath of life as a new baby cries
A sound of joy, and Mother softly sighs.
A child of God so beautiful was sent down from the skies
Opening a view of promise, with heaven in her eyes.
And [Gracie] on earth she would be called.
She shared her soul with others through life’s song.
Spring was golden, and summer bright and fair,
Filled with music and laughter in the air.
But early autumn brought a change
And it took her breath away.
She lived with hope that a new day would dawn.
Her smile was free; her spirit held a song.
Enfolded in God’s loving arms as she returns to Him,
Looking in the eyes of Jesus, we know she’ll sing again.
“Now I am free, and I have found my song,
A breath away in Heav’n where I belong.”
Through the struggles of life we know so well
Breathes the message which we’ve been called to tell.
The Spirit whispers it’s not the end:
Heaven’s just a breath away.
Her song goes on.
The melody is sweet.
She’s home with God;
From earthly cares she’s free.
Heaven’s just a breath away.
---Kendra Darrington Luthy
Thank you, thank you, for sharing your beautiful words, and that sweet little face, with us for the past 11 months.
May our Savior's love continue to light your way in the days to come.
I don't know you, but I sit here with tears pouring down my face for your world that has been so turned upside down. May Heavenly Father send his most valiant angels to sit with you and hold you in this hardest of times, and send his sweetest of angels to welcome Gracie back to His arms. I'm so so sorry.
Gracie's entire life has been a miracle. It is truly amazing that she has united the hearts of so many people (including strangers) in faith and prayer. What a wonderful life's mission she has accomplished! Her life was beautiful and perfect. What a blessing to have had a glimpse into the life of such a special spirit...thank you for sharing your little Gracie with all of us. She will not be forgotten. May your burdens be lightened with the knowledge that so many people are mourning with you this day. We all miss Gracie.
Love,
Robbie Andersen
(mom to Trey HLHS and Angel Sasha HLHS, TS)
You don't know me, but I found your blog thru another blog. You know how that goes. My heart is aching for you! I am typing this with tears streaming down my face. I am also LDS and know of the comfort that the plan of salvation brings. But I cannot imagine what you are going through. I am so sorry. You have been in my prayers and I fasted for you this last Sunday, for whatever Gracie and your family needed most. Obviously it's comfort. You are truely amazing. My prayers will continue to be with you and your family during this time.
Thank You for taking the time to watch over such a sweet girl. And Thank You for sharing her with us. You only had her for such a short time and you shared her with us! God Bless you and keep you in the hollow of his hands. Nobody better then your sweet family deserves the spirit to be with them at this time. I pray for your family!
Love from Orem Utah and yet another person whom you have touched and we haven't even met.
Thank You
Livvy's Mom!
I don't have any words to say, except that you will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
We Heart Gracie!!
Your faith is an inspiration to so many. My only daughter is her same age, I can't even imagine. I will pray tonight for the two of you and also for those sweet other children. And I can only hope that having her gone and out of pain will be less painful than watching her everyday in so much pain.
I will also pray that the spirit will be incredibly strong as she is lifted up to her father in heaven...may peace continue to heal your broken hearts.
There are no words that can take the pain away. My wish for you is that you feel some comfort from all of the prayers that are with all of you. Your sweet little Gracie touched many lives in her way too short time on this earth. May the Lord ease your pain as time goes on. Heaven has welcomed a precious new angel today.
I share your tears of sorrow! Strangers, but friends through Christ,
Judy Schroeder
I am so sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers daily and I hope you can feel the support of those who are close to you.
Thank you so much for sharing your testimony of eternal families through this. Your reminder to live worthy to be with Gracie again helps me work harder too.
Gracie is loved by all, even those that don't know her personally. She has touched the hearts of many, and is a beautiful little angel. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and am so greatful that family's can be together forever.
Dear Gledhill Family,
Sixteen years ago, I sat by an ICU bed as my baby boy had a similar struggle. We waited as he took his last breath....
It does take a long time to mourn sometimes. Even when you mourn in HOPE. It gets easier, somehow, with the years. No, maybe different is a better word.
My heart aches for you as you step onto this path. The blessing comes in what you all will learn about yourselves in time. Not because of Gracie's death, but because she LIVED!
God bless each of you~
I have have never met your cute family, but have been following your blog this past month with a prayer for Gracie's recovery. Last night I sobbed when I read the latest blog. I lost my older sister to her third open heart surgery years ago when I was only 6 years old. I thought I knew what the pain of losing a loved one was like, but now as a mother and reading of Gracie's journey I realize now that there is no greater pain/suffering a person can feel than the loss of a child. I am amazed and admire your strength, faith and testimonies during this time. Continue to hold on to the gospel as tight as you can and it will most definitly carry you through- it saved my family. My prayers are with your family at this time. Please let us know if there is a donation memorial fund set up for Gracie- we'd love to contribute. From my heart to yours, Alana
Thank you for sharing sweet Gracie with all of us. She has touched so many lives. May the spirit be with you are your family at this very difficult time.
Michelle, Tom & Family,
Again I am an old roommate of Tiffany's. I am so saddened by the loss of Gracie. What a little fighter she was. She will always hold a special place in my heart. Your family's faith & endurance has made me want to be a better person. I am so glad you and your family will be able to be with Gracie again. What amazing people you are: and last but not least you have chosen to help someone else out when your heart aches....My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family at this time. I am so thankful you have shared this little miracle with me.
We don't know each other....just found you clicking around.... I am praying for you, your husband, and your children...that God comforts your aching heart quickly...that you may feel peace and calm knowing where Gracie is. I'm so sorry for your loss and all that you have been through.
I hope you are all feeling the peace that Gracie is at right now.
A gentle hug for the Gledhill family and all their loving supporters who will always cherish the memory of Sweet Gracie Girl.
God Bless you all!
Dear Gledhills, We have never met, but have been deeply touched by your darling daughter. We are thinking of and praying for you. We heart Gracie.
I'm Ian Pearson's Aunt...Jen and Justin lost him after heart transplant over a year ago at 6 months old. My tears flow just like they did back then...bless your sweet family of 6...a family of 6 forever! Thank you for sharing her story, even as your heart breaks. What a priceless gift. I'm a photographer and would love to take portraits of your family whenever and wherever you'd like...anytime...for free. www.annepearsonphotography.com/blog
So sorry to hear this news. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you for giving us a glimpse of Gracie's sweetness and helping us all to see how precious each Child of God is. Thank you for helping us remember what is important each and every day. I'm so very sorry for your loss. Hug each other. Know that Heavenly Father is aware of your pain and waits to bless you in ways that you cannot now see.
A breath away is not to far from where you are.... Gracie, you fought a tough battle sweetie stay close to mommy and daddy they will forever need to feel your presence and they will... know you are loved and will be missed.....
i'm so sorry.
she is a beautiful baby.
My prayers are with your family!
With Love,
Katie
I don't know you but from your blog I know that God is with your family giving you strength. I lost a baby last July just due to complications...I couldn't imagine holding my child and knowing they were about to be called home! Your family is in my prayers!
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