Phoebe was born 10 years ago in Lamar, Colorado. From the first moment she made her presence she was unique and beautiful. Even the nurses at the hospital commented on what a pretty baby she was. Everywhere she went, people would stop and comment on what a pretty girl she was.

At 2 months of age, she had her first surgery, and her family learned of her physical differences. This surgery not only saved her life, but the days following were filled with awareness that her life here on earth was nothing short of a miracle. Surgeries, hospital visits, doctor and therapy appointments filled her days for 10 years. Her parents, siblings and Pa and Grammy were consistent residents at the hospital when she was there, so much that the nurses wondered where “everyone” was if they were missing. She was one of the first patients in the new Children’s Hospital at Memorial in Springs (a dubious honor) and even spent Christmas there one year. (nurses make good santa’s) Many family members over the years have sat with her, visited her at home or the hospital and prayed for her.

Phoebe was surrounded by her siblings from the day she arrived. Josiah read her stories and rocked her, enjoying pushing her in any mobile device she was in. Nathan regarded her as he would have any sister and regularly pushed her out of his chairs and carried her around with his arms around her chest (or neck) when he wanted to show her something. Candi often “asked” Phoebe if she could wear her clothes, especially the stars and sparkles nightgown, Her siblings never seemed to notice that she was unable to do anything, just expected her to respond in kind when they interacted to her. And her smiles are a fond memory when they held her hand, kissed her goodnight or told her about their day.

School was a new and different experience for Phoebe. It not only meant being in a new and different place but without her dad or mom or siblings. She quickly came to trust and love Miss Anna who cared for her with as much love as someone who wasn’t family could have. All you had to do was tell her she was going to see Miss Anna and suddenly the dreaded car rides were not filled with struggle but smiles and noises.

Whether it was girl slumber parties with cousins, birthday parties in the pool, movies with the huge pictures and loud sounds or the loud thumping bass in the car if daddy chose the music, Phoebe was always up for a good time. Children seemed to have a sense of her silent communication, and often commented that she was happy.

Every doctor, nurse and professional she saw made sure we knew how unique she was. She never went through a procedure the same way twice, or in the “expected” manner. She was a trooper, and pleasant to work with, but never predictable.

The love and joy that surrounded her life flooded to those around her, and the blessings touched many beyond the confines of her home. Many all over the country prayed for her, caring and keeping up on her progress. Her church family (from La Junta, to Lamar, to Springs, to Trinidad) was touched by her joy and peace in the midst of her restrictions. So many lives reached out to God on her behalf and those prayers were a precious stronghold in her life.

We are confident that Jesus, who said, “Let the little children come to me, for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven.”, has a special place prepared for her. She is surely filled with joy, dancing before our Lord and enjoying the perfection that is now hers.