Little Henry Hance....he is the son of Michael and Grace Ann (Emmert) Hance. Grace Ann and her family lived in Byrdstown for a time and her dad was the pastor at our church....our families are friends. Henry is 3 years old...he and my Anna are about 8 days apart in age. Henry has Wilms Tumor which affects his kidneys. He was diagnosed at 8 months and had surgery to remove one kidney. Then had to have another part of his other kidney removed some time after that. He received treatment at St. Jude's here in Memphis. About 2 weeks ago, Henry went into renal failure and was brought back to St. Jude for evaluation. He had 2 tumors on the kidney. The dr's removed the tumors and now he is getting ready to receive treatment. The Hance family lives in Johnson City, TN so they are far from home. So we wanted to make them feel more at home and try our best to fill any needs that they may have while they are here. Don't get me wrong, St. Jude takes very good care of their patients, but we wanted to bless them.....SO, my sister, my friend Windy and me and the kids set out to Walmart and gathered some goodies...and some toys for Henry. Debbie (Stephanie Vasofsky's mom) also joined in on the effort and raided Kroger and got some gifts for Henry's sisters at Target....below is the stash....
They were thrilled with all their goodies and what joy to see their faces when we showed up carrying (in 4 trips) all of this stuff. Samuel and Anna could not wait for Henry to open his presents. Henry got a Spiderman costume, Handy Manny toys, puzzles, coloring books and crayons, blocks and many other things. His sisters each got a gown and socks, journals, sticker books, a game and puzzles. Henry's mommy even got some special things as well. Then of course all the snacks....how much fun for us!
We went and spent about 5 hours visiting with the Hance family at the hospital. Henry had 3 dr's appts while we were there but Samuel and Anna so enjoyed playing in the waiting rooms with all the neat toys. They even made some new friends. Below is a picture of little Henry and the kids.....
We went to the cafeteria and had lunch as well....
Henry and his mommy and Nana were staying at the Ronald McDonald house right close to St. Jude. Of course we had to get our picture made with Ronald himself....I believe the kids even kissed Ronald....
We are praying for God to heal Henry. He is receiving radiation this week and next week at St. Jude and then will get to go home for chemo. Giving and serving others is an excellent way of teaching Samuel and Anna about the generosity of the Lord...we serve...because He serves us.....get better Henry!!!!!!
5 comments:
What a great deed and a great lesson! We will add him to our prayers!
What a wonderful thing to do for them. And as Misty said, a great lesson for the kids. We will add him to our prayers as well.
I will keep this family in my prayers!
I am sure they enjoyed the company, as much as all the treats! It is bad enough to be sick, but to be far from home too is hard. I am glad you guys are nearby for Grace Anne.
How very nice for you all to be so thoughful. It is so good that Samual and Anna are learning to help others. Will keep this family in my prayers.
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