I am sorry to say that the medical treatment for our little angel, Anna Joy, is coming to an end. She is having seizures that they can't control, and her right lung is still collapsed. The doctors gathered this morning to discuss her case, and informed us that they feel she is unlikely to survive.
So, with heavy hearts, we are preparing to take Anna Joy off ECMO sometime this afternoon or early evening. She is not expected to survive more than a few moments.
I'm not sure when we will be able to update this blog again...so thank you all for your fervent prayers. We are able to stand only because of your support.
I suppose there's still a chance for God to move. If He does, we'll let you know.
Love you all,
Matt, Alissa, and family.
Oh, Matt, Alissa, I am so sorry. I honestly don't know what words to say, only that I am sorry, and that I will continue to pray for you. May God belss you and keep you, and may He make His light to shine upon you.
ReplyDeleteAs someone you don't know, I've been following Anna's story and praying that a miracle would take place. God's timing is always perfect and so is his plan. I pray that He grants you the peace that passes all understanding. Every blessing.
ReplyDeletePraying that you feel His strength, His peace, His presence for than you've EVERY felt before. He is right there with you, and we - hundreds of fellow believers - are right here praying for you.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry. Praying for a miracle, peace and that you'll feel His arms wrap around you.
ReplyDeleteMay the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. - Romans 15:13
ReplyDeleteI know you are trusting in Him, and I am praying according to His Word for his supernatural joy and peace to fill you.
I have no words of comfort to make this any easier to face; I ask that the God of all comfort hold you in His arms as only He can.
- a friend of a friend, who has been blessed by you and by Anna Joy
I am so sorry to hear this. We will continue to pray for your family and lift you up this afternoon and evening. My older brother was born with a heart defect and did not make it past three days. He and many others will be ready to welcome Anna Joy, if indeed God does take her home.
ReplyDeleteMy life has been blessed in just reading how strong and faithful you have been to our Lord and Savior since I encountered your blog.
Begging of the hand of God to move in a way only He can in His timing alone...and beyond that, for His grace enough for each moment you face in accepting His will for sweet Anna Joy's life.
ReplyDeleteI don't know you guts at all but during here waiting for an apt and started bawling for your family here in public. May God give you all strength and comfort. Praying for you guys endlessly. Just know god knows what he is doing and anna joy will no longer be in pain. God be with you! Anna joy you have blessed many lives with the short time you were on this earth. She will never be forgotten!
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers are with you! Anna, and your love for her, has taught me/reminded me of the way I need to love and parent my children, and the way I need to seek God in all things. Thank you Anna, Matt, and Alissa for sharing your journey with all of us. She wasn't on Earth for long, but she was worth it and her existence was a miracle. God Speed baby girl!
ReplyDeleteAs someone who does not know your family, I find myself very emotionally attached to this story. Your family has brought so much awe and amazement to me as I have read and seen how strong you are. Anna Joy is a little fighter and has brought so many people, including me, closer to the Lord. She is a miracle. I have been praying for several days now and will not stop. I will be praying for a miracle for her tonight. I am also praying for the comfort for your family as you go through this sad experience. I am so sorry and wish I could do so much more!! As I was praying, I came across a link to a devotional by Jeremy Camp, it was completely perfect for this situation and I believe God laid it on my heart for you guys. I have included the link below. Again, know that my family and I will be in heavy, constant prayer for your family and little Anna. She has touched so many lives, including mine.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GpBuEuagZxE&feature=youtube_gdata_player
I just want to let you know that we love you and are praying for you.
ReplyDeleteEric and Molly
May God grant you His strength and peace as you face the hours and days ahead. We love you guys and will continue to lift you up in prayer.
ReplyDeleteJohn 14:27 says, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
I have been standing with you in prayer during this journey, and I will continue to do so, as I know many will. Hugs, prayers and my tears go out to your family today.
ReplyDeletePraying for your family this minute...I'm so sorry.
ReplyDeleteMary Ostyn
I am so sorry...
ReplyDeleteThere are no words...I love you, I ache for and with you. I pray for that one more miracle, and peace for you all.
ReplyDeleteMy sweet Matt & Alissa and family. We love you so very much and will be praying still for you. Our hearts ache with you but we know that you have given Anna such a beautiful time on this earth, full of love and music and so much more. As Kayla has remarked many times, she loves me the most because she chose me in heaven... I believe that is true for Anna Joy and you. She chose you for her stay here on earth. There are no words but that we love you and are here if you need anything.
ReplyDeleteMy heart is aching for you guys. I am so very sad. I am praying that God's presence will be so pervasive that you can actually feel Him holding you up. I am praying! And trusting in His goodness even though it is so hard to accept or understand. May God bless this time with you and your precious daughter as you say goodbye. With love!
ReplyDeleteYou're in our hearts and prayers. We are brokenhearted for you, with you.
ReplyDeleteBryon & Karen Knight
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO ! pls no !!!!
ReplyDeleteAlissa, just as you have enriched my life, Anna Joy incredibly enriched it as well. My heart truly aches for you, Matt, and your families. I wish you peace and strength as you move the rest of the way through this journey. I am so very sorry for this outcome. You are very much loved.
ReplyDeleteMatt and Alissa,
ReplyDeleteI was asked to pray for your family by a friend in Spokane and have been following your journey with Anna Joy for a few days. I have been praying God's peace to wash over you and give you comfort even in this very hard time. My prayers will continue to be with you.
God has been at work in your lives from the very moment Anna was conceived. I will continue to pray for your family and pray that God continues to work in your lives no matter what the outcome. Sending love and hugs to you this afternoon and evening.
ReplyDeleteWill be praying for you throughout the day/night. I don't know how God will choose to move, but am believing that through it all, He will be with you and will never leave your side. My heart hurts for you all that you are experiencing this right now. I can not begin to imagine the emotions and thoughts you are having. My parents lost a baby at about 1 month to SIDS and my Mom has told me that it was a day by day thing that the Lord brought them through but that He indeed was faithful and never left their side. If Anna does indeed go to be with Jesus, I don't know if there has ever been a little girl that has been loved so deeply by so many people and has had such a strong impact on the faith of so many. Love you guys.
ReplyDelete-Carrie Hays
There are no words to offer you all at this moment. My heart aches for you all and will continue to pray for Miss Anna Joy and the rest of the family.
ReplyDeleteBe still and know that I am God!
Peace & blessings!
Praying for God's peace and comfort. So heartbroken for you.
ReplyDeleteMy 5 yr old son who had seizures for a yr wanted to pray together for baby Anna-he cannot imagine a baby having to go through what he went though. It made him so sad! So we just joined hands and prayed for God to perform a Christmas miracle for Anna. To control the seizures, to inflate her lung and to literally miraculously grow the other half of her heart! God is MIGHTY and able to do a great work! We stand in total belief that this is a season when God is going to show Himself strong through baby Anna!
ReplyDeleteMatt, Alissa and family,
ReplyDeleteMy heart is crying out for you. I will continue to pray for you. Alissa, you likely don't remember me, but I have known you and your siblings since you were little from your visits to the Nazarene church in Pomeroy. I will keep up the prayers. God will hold you through this!
Miriam
Please know that we will continue to pray for your famly no matter what today's outcome may be. It is a sweet encouragement in the middle of the heartache that your precious Anna Joy touched SOOOO many lives in such a short amount of time. Personally, love for a child and a family I have never met motivated me and my family to get on our faces before the Lord persistently to beg Him to move mountains. He is sovreign and I pray that you are able to rest in His peace. If each of us began to seek the Lord like we have for Anna and the Peppley Family, I am convinced we would see unending change in this world. I am deeply sorry for the choices and sorrows you are facing. I hope there is some comfort in the fact that your baby girl impacted more lives in a week than most do in a lifetime. May God comfort your hearts.
ReplyDeleteOur hearts ache for you and your precious Anna Joy. We will especially be praying for you...for this evening...tomorrow...and in the weeks and months ahead. Thank you for sharing your life, your hearts and little Anna Joy with us. You've been an amazing blessing to so many. Anna's life impact will have been greater than most people's will ever be. I have a feeling that her impact will be felt for a very long time. Love and prayers....
ReplyDeleteI pray that God will continue to be glorified through all of this and beyond. May no hearts be hardened from His love.
ReplyDeleteThough I can't even begin to fully grasp the emotions you are going through, what little I do, is enough for me to cry over.
You are all loved.
I have no words and I have no ability to understand. But I want to thank you for sharing your story. Sharing Anna's story. Seeing prayers from around the world has refreshed my belief in human connectiveness. Baby Anna has reminded me to be a softer, more gentle and loving parent as we never know what life holds for our children. Thank you for sharing her with us. With love and prayer, Jennifer
ReplyDeleteJesus, my heart is broken for this family. Is it too late for Your miraculous touch? You have given us more than a glimpse of unbounded faith, hope, and love. We again beg for Your healing touch for this child; we believe, we know You love her more than we can fathom.
ReplyDeleteFather, if in Your sovereign will you have ordained her early departure from us and into Your presence, we pray healing, comfort and peace, in Your time, for this family and all that mourn. We remain on our faces before You, our Creator, Healer, Redeemer, Lover of our souls.
Words aren't sufficient right now, but I pray that you feel God's arms holding you all right now. You are being lifted up in prayer before the throne of grace...
ReplyDeleteWe are praying for comfort and peace for your family.
ReplyDeleteMy heart is breaking for you. Whatever happens, God chose you to be Anna Joys parents and what a blessing that will always be. I pray for peace and comfort for you all. I keep repeating 'With God all things are possible.' my thoughts and prayers will continue to be with you all.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear about this. I am still praying for you and Anna! Of course best case is that she grows be a healthy happy woman. If Jesus decides to bring her home I thank Him that He gave her parents like you that would cherish every moment that you shared with her! I will be praying that He will comfort you all during this painful and trying time!
ReplyDeleteWe love you and baby Anna.
ReplyDeleteMy heart is breaking for you guys and I am speechless. Praying for you guys and that sweet baby girl!
ReplyDeleteWe are praying for you today and promise to pray for you in the days to come!
ReplyDeleteHer story's not over yet. Not only is there a chance that God will perform a miracle that allows her life to be prolonged, but God can also perform healing miracles as well as those that lead others to His saving grace, because of this child. Thank you for sharing! Such a flood of prayers for all of you!
ReplyDeleteMatt, Alissa,Issac and family...I'm so, so sorry. I pray that in time you will heal from this pain. I pray that you will always know that God is good. Anna Joy has and will have a special place in God's arms. I pray that the time you spent with her, touching her, loving her and praying over her will be remembered with good memories. You all fought a tough battle, but you were not alone. God was with you and will be with you. The nation of the faithful has responded to you with such love, affection and interest, that lives were touched in His name. In times of extreme pain, I have always found that there were such wonderful blessings to be found. If I can help in any way let me know. I will continue to pass this story around as more people need to know about it. The power of God brings those together who need each other. Hugs, loves, and prayers for comfort.
ReplyDeleteThere is nothing to say, and never enough time. All of our collective arms are around you, and we lift you up in prayer. Give a kiss to that precious little angel from all of us who loved her without even knowing her.
ReplyDeleteMy heart is sad for you all. To me, Anna Joy's life spoke love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Her life is a footprint on my heart. I will continue to pray God's loving arms wrap you in comfort and peace. Matthew 28:20 - I am with you always, the the very end of the age. With much love, Jackie
ReplyDeleteI have no words of comfort to share, I can only imagine their aren't any in the English language that would even bring comfort at this time. Only know my prayers are with your family and my heart is aching with thoughts of your sorrow. May sweet Anna be safe and whole in the arms of Jesus and my you know His grace beyond what you can fathom. Heart hugs ~ Amy
ReplyDeleteOur God is so big, our familys heart is going out to yours. He has a purpose and has had one for Annas life. Praying for your hearts to be held.
ReplyDeleteI have been praying for you since I read this. I can feel the emotions and heartache you are going through since it was almost 3 years ago that I had to do the same thing to my daughter Tessa at Seattle Children's. I am hoping you feel our love and prayers. Not sure if you have been told about them, but please consider having photos of you with your beautiful Anna Joy, taken by Soulumination. I am forever thankful for the photos of have of our little girl, Tessa. God Bless...
ReplyDeleteMatt and Alyssa,
ReplyDeleteYou are an inspiration. All that you and your sweet baby have done to touch others lives is incredible. My heart aches for you, but I know the Lord will heal you both. My prayers are with you.
Julia Ward (Taylor)
Sitting here with tears, there are no words. But I am still praying......Psalms 23.
ReplyDeleteI am so so so very sorry.
ReplyDeleteSorry, I meant Alissa
ReplyDeleteYour beautiful daughter's life has touched so many hearts. More than you may ever know. Sometimes we don't understand the "why's", but I pray that you hold on to how her precious little life meant so much to so many.
ReplyDeleteWe too have lost a baby. We choose every day to rejoice in the life and time we DID have. Sometimes our angels have a special purpose, and can not stay as long as we want. <3
Please know that we are thinking, and praying for your entire family.
Continuing our prayers!
ReplyDeleteAlissa and Matt. Thanks for sharing your journey with us. I pray for comfort for you guys in this time. I know you know she is eternally with God and soon, someday you will be with her. I have tears streaming down my face as I type this. I wish I could be strong for you and take the hurt. May God Bless you and give issac and anna joy a squeeze for me. Thinking of you.
ReplyDeleteMy heart is so heavy that you have to say good-bye to your beautiful girl.
ReplyDeleteKnow that she, along with your entire family, touched many lives, including people like me who you don't even know.
Praying for the healing of your hearts now.
Continuing to pray.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I will continue to pray for baby Anna today/tonight, as well as all for you two and the rest of your family. I'm not a big "hit your knees and pray" person, but I did this morning, worrying that it was coming to this. I am just so sorry. I cannot imagine what you are going through, even with your faith and being in God's hands. I pray that you all enjoy whatever time she has left with a peaceful, though understandably heavy heart, and that you can be there to kiss your little girl goodbye.
ReplyDeleteYou are all in our thoughts and prayers,
The Bailey'
Continuing to pray for your family, fervently and tearfully!
ReplyDeleteWhat hope you have been to me! As you have prayerfully given Anna to the Lord each moment, I prayerfully offer your family to the Lord. Without understanding, I become humbled. Her life that is so fragile is undeniably surrounded by the awesome strength of God. Her life has not been in vain, and His power is truly evident no matter the outcome on this earth. Anna has given joy to a dark world!
ReplyDeleteMatt and Alyssa,
ReplyDeleteWe are standing by you, in prayer and with our tears.
Praying for you... that's all I can say. Love you guys
ReplyDeleteYou've never met me but I have been praying without ceasing for your family and your precious daughter. Though we can never understand this trauma, we MUST trust the Author of life and His eternal perspective. I'm sorry this hurts so bad. As the next minutes, hours, and days unfold, my family and I will continue to pray - first, for a miracle for Baby Anna, and also for peace, perspective, and joy that makes no sense given the circumstances. God is holding you close.
ReplyDeletePraying for you all!!! That Jesus would minister to your hearts, and give you hope for the future. By His Stripes we are healed.....yet sometimes only in Heaven. He is true to His word nonetheless. Jesus is there to love you through it. Do not loose hope!!! Immanuel, God with us - He is with you and your little Angel today and forever!!! Praise God amidst the sad circumstances, and He will set you free!!! In Christ,
ReplyDeleteYouschka
I've been following this story for a while now and I have to just stop and say it has beyond touched my heart. You both are very strong and beautiful people and I know that this experience and your documentation of the life of your beautiful daughter has touched more people that you will ever even know.
ReplyDeleteYour little Anna Joy brought me closer to Jesus than I've ever been. She is such a beautiful baby here...can you imagine her as an Angel??? I believe she chose you for this time. You were perfectly what she needed. And she was perfectly what you needed. May the Lord give you peace and may you see Anna Joy's beauty everywhere. You will never know the amount of love this little angel has brought to so many. God bless you always.
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeletePraying for Anna! I will also say prayers for peace and strength for you and your family during this time. I can't imagine what you are going through, but I hope you feel God's love through all this, and know that Anna has touched so many people in her precious time here on earth!
ReplyDeleteMy heart is breaking for you and your family. May God wrap you in peace tonight. I will continue praying for a miracle.
ReplyDeleteSo sorry. We are praying. If you get a chance go on you tube and listen to "hear my heart" by Sheri Easter. Love you all!!
ReplyDeletePraying for peace, comfort, and for God to intercede. Praying that He will wrap his arms of love around you and AnnaJoy at this time.
ReplyDeleteGod has used the life of AnnaJoy already in powerful ways! Continuing to pray for a miracle!
My heart is breaking at this news. I will continue to pray, though I am merely praying tears as I don't even know what to say. Anna Joy is tremendously loved by SO many people.
ReplyDeletePrayers are with all of you.
ReplyDeleteI have asked the entire Advanced Sports Association to pray for your family. My heart goes out to you and you all have been in our prayers for weeks. I ask that God comforts you in any capacity that is needed... no matter the outcome. My faith runs deep and I will continue to pray for you all.
ReplyDeletePatch
President
Advanced Sport Association
Your story has touched my heart and your strength has been such an inspiration to so many people! I will continue to pray for your family through this difficult time!
ReplyDeleteI have been praying for you as I have been reading the blogs that you have posted. Our God is a Sovereign God that does not sit on the sideline. He is always active..thus a he is a living God. Not one part of this situation has escaped His attention. He chooses to act based on what will bring glory to Himself and what will cause His children to grow closer to Him and one another. The Scriptures also say that Christ holds the keys to death and He is the one that chooses the time of death (Revelation 1:18). Because God is righteous and good it is always the right way. Sometimes when we are in the middle of a trial we do not understand "why". The "why" is because God chose what was best for us. Since He knows the end from the beginning that decision is best left to Him. The other reason why is found in 1 Peter 1:6-7
ReplyDelete"Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:"
God knows exactly what you can handle and what is best for you and your family. I pray that through this experience you have grown closer to God in a way that no other experience could bring you and know that regardless of the situation it does not change who God is. He is still a good, loving, all knowing, all powerful, God that is working out things for the good of those loving Him. May the peace of God rule in your heart.
In Christ
Phil Benson
With tears in my eyes. I pray for you! You are amazing!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteMat and Alissa, we have been folloiwing Anna Joy and all this difficult moments that You have been going trough in this last copule months, we have been praying for you all constantly, even so far down here we are very touched and it hás been a deep experiece of faith and strenght that you have been teaching us. Keep being very strong and believe that there is a razon for everything and you will find it sooner or later. Keep the faith always, never lose it. We are standing by you in toughts and prayers. Love, Ron, Carla, Paula and Marcela.
ReplyDeleteI am so extremely sorry for you guys right now. I do not understand why God lets our world be this way. Nothing is more darling than an infant!
ReplyDeleteMatt and Alissa, my heart is breaking for you. God has given you a test in life that no one should ever have to face. God speed and God bless.
ReplyDeleteThere are no words that I can say except I am so sorry that you all have had to experience this tremendous heartbreak and pain here on earth. I have been praying for Anna Joy nonstop. Covering you in prayer continually. I'm completely heartbroken for you...God be with them and hold them close.
ReplyDeletePleading with God for you. "do your best work, God"
ReplyDeleteWe can't even begin to understand what you have been through but we are so sorry to hear this news and our hearts break for you. We will continue to pray for you in the days to come. God, please give this family your peace, comfort, and strength as they continue to trust in Your plan for their lives. Hold them tight and fill their hearts as only You can. Amen
ReplyDeleteI am so, so sorry, I know there are no words that can ease your pain. Sending up prayers and asking the Lord to envelop you in His arms.
ReplyDeleteMat and Alissa, we have been folloiwing Anna Joy and all this difficult moments that You have been going trough in this last copule months, we have been praying for you all constantly, even so far down here we are very touched and it hás been a deep experiece of faith and strenght that you have been teaching us. Keep being very strong and believe that there is a razon for everything and you will find it sooner or later. Keep the faith always, never lose it. We are standing by you in toughts and prayers. Love, Ron, Carla, Paula and Marcela.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry...praying for peace.
ReplyDeleteI have been following your blog and feel saddened by this news. I have been praying for the hand of God to intervene. I know that nothing I say will comfort you at this time but know many of us NNU alumni have been praying for you. I will continue to pray for you and your family.
ReplyDeleteI do not know you my Aunt shared your blog on Facebook and I have been praying! I pray for God's mighty strength and his peace that his gental hands will hold you up and that you will find comfort in falling apart with him and letting him pick up the pieces I am amazed by your story and your faith thank you for showing me what completely depending on God looks like!
ReplyDeleteMy heart aches for you my friend. Anna has touched so many lives in such a short amount of time. She is so loved by people that have never met her. I pray that Gods arms stayed wrapped tight around you guys during this difficult time. Much love to you all.
ReplyDeleteYou may not know us, but we are part of the family of God. We have been praying for our little sister Anna Joy since we heard about what she is going through. Our prayer is that God gives all of Anna's family strength and comfort. We have made a commitment to stand next to you in prayer and hold up your arms as Aaron and Hur did for Abraham. We will continue those prayers and hold up your arms until our Heavenly Father gives us direction to do differently.
ReplyDeleteMatt and Alissa~
ReplyDeleteI want to have words that bring comfort but I know the only true comfort is in Jesus. He is the Word and He will never leave you nor forsake you no matter what it feels like. Thank you for allowing so many of us to intercede on your behalf and to be moved and touched in ways untold by your journey here. No doubt you will remain prayed for and over for many, many years to come. The body of Christ is alive due to Him and able to reach one another in ways we never could just a few short years ago. My heart hurts for you as it has ever since I learned of Anna Joy and your situation.
I really agree with Phil Benson's post and will join and continue to pray that Christ's peace reigns in your hearts.
While in my humaness I can't possibly fathom how you can still function, I know that He, the author and sustainer of our faith, will provide all your needs. I like the way the New Living Translation states Phil. 4:19 "God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus."
Keep running into His arms!
My heart is heavy for you tonight. I wish you peace through this process. Her Life will always be a Light!
ReplyDeleteMy heart is aching for you two. I do not know you but I know the love a parent has for their child and I cannot imagine. I admire your strength and faith through all of this. I pray for a miracle to still occur but I also pray that you will find peace in all of this.
ReplyDeleteYou don't know me but as your sister in Christ I will be praying for you and this rough time you are going through, and as a mother my self I will be praying non stop that the lord gives you strength to make it through each day! I can not even imagine the amount of emotion and pain you both must be feeling! God is with you and so are my prayers!
ReplyDeleteOh, this breaks my heart. Praying for peace for you and your family. The pain of losing a child is unlike any other. Praying for you as you trust in God. As someone else mentioned, take lots of picture of your daughter. The hospital should help you get in touch with Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep (they came and took pictures of our son, I know there are photographers in Seattle). They do it all for free and they will be pictures for you to treasure always. Praying, praying, praying for you guys.
ReplyDeleteThinking of you all tonight.
ReplyDeleteI too have been following your blog and your heartfelt emotion throughout this trying time. I am thankful to my friends who brought it to my attention so that I might pray for you. I lost my son from Hyperplastic Left Heart Syndrome many years ago and know only by God's grace that you can find peace. As difficult as it is, please rely on Him and the strength of your friends and family who are here to support you. I read something above that I want to reiterate. I pray that you feel God's presence so strongly that you can actually feel Him lifting you up, Spiritually and emotionally.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you,
Tina
I started following your blog just in this last week. Every time I read it I weep. My heart has been aching for you two and your family ever since I first found out. I am a mother. A mother of two actually. Our second was a surprise; relatively close to our first. It has put it in perspective. Never have I cherished my kids more than these last few days. Believe me when I say my heart is truly broken for you.
ReplyDeleteMatt and Alissa - I truly have no idea what you're feeling right now, but I know that my body feels physically ill after reading this post. I cannot give up hope, though. I know none of us can. I still trust in God's faithfulness, but i'm speaking for myself and i'm sure many others that this is a time when faith is tested. Praying for peace and STILL praying for miraculous healing. But God, you are still good and holy...all the time...
ReplyDeleteMy heart is breaking, as I continue to pray for you all. Holding you up in pray. She is beautiful and resting in his arms, anything can happen. He loves you. We love you too.
ReplyDeleteMy heart breaks for your family! My prayer is for a miracle. God has a plan for her and I'm praying his plan is for people to witness a miracle. I can't imagine what you guys are going through but I pray you find strength in Him and with each other. Lord Please be with this family! Amen.
ReplyDelete...so sad for you both but so blessed by Anna Joy's short life!!!! She has not lived for naught! She has taught me so much that I feel blessed to have known her! She has blessed so many lives..... Sometimes GOD has a plan that we can not appreciate at the time. Your little angel has touched so many lives!! I will continue to pray for peace to you both. God will bless you. You should feel special that God send you a little piece of Heaven to Earth even for a little while...... You truly got to see Heaven on Earth. Continue to breathe, have faith and pray. {{{{{Hugs}}}}}}
ReplyDeletePraying for you and your family. Truly lifting you up! God has given you an amazing strength and He will continue to comfort you and hold you.
ReplyDeleteKen & Connie
You and all your extended family are being lifted up right this minute around the whole world. Even in your grief and pain, may you feel the love and comfort and peace that only God can provide. Thanks for sharing so openly about this journey. God will continue to use Anna Joy in ways you can not yet imagine. Keep talking....to God, to each other and to family/friends. I'm praying specifically for Isaac too....this has got to be confusing for a big brother who isn't even 2 years old yet.
ReplyDeleteSo sorry! There are no words to express! I can't imagine what you are going through. Please know my prayers are with you and I want you to know that God used Anna Joy, her story and yours to touch my life! May God grant you peace!
ReplyDeleteI have found myself anxiously awaiting your posts and wondering about your little angel. I am very sad to read this news. I hope you all find comfort in one another and with your families during this holiday.
ReplyDeleteSometimes God needs more angels by his side. Anna Joy will always be watching over you. You may not see her, but you will feel her.
All my love, strength, and good vibes sent your way. Stay faithful...
So many people are praying...for Anna Joy and for mom and dad. I was shocked to know that my community has this story. It's spread through many circles of friends and family in faith. I know Jesus can do anything and everything. Now it's just the Trusting that sometimes we don't understand. Remember HE is Sovreign in all things. All things are for good and His love goes before us, before our thoughts, our intentions and our plans. TRUST in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all Thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths.
ReplyDeleteLord your will be done. Your peace and strength be ever overflowing. And if your will is for a miracle on this life a blessing in any fashion will it be.
Praying for your family! As a parent, I cannot imagine how heavy your hearts are. Praying that God will work in His ever-perfect, although not always-understood way. He has a plan for Miss Anna Joy, even if her time here on earth is cut short. She has touched so many lives with her story! We pray for peace and comfort that can only be found in ones faith! May God surround you in the coming days!
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear this news. Anna Joy was put here on this earth for a reason. Even if her time is very short. She has connected so many people and touched the lives of those she'll never meet. God bless you all.
ReplyDeleteA friend shared your story with us on facebook. Our baby was also treated at SCH NICU over the summer. We've been thinking of your family, praying every day, and asking others to do the same. Anna Joy is so beautiful, and we just want to thank you both for sharing with all of us. Her story has touched so many.
ReplyDeleteThis is one of those times the will of God seems so bitterly unfair... but He has a plan that none of us can understand. Will continue to pray for a miracle. May you all find comfort in being together.
ReplyDeletewords cannot express the grief I feel for you. I pray that you will be given the time and strength needed to say goodbye and that your hearts will know the joy and peace you gave Anna from the moment she was conceived. You are loved.
ReplyDeleteJanelle Stauffer-Boothby
There are simply no words. We will not cease praying for you, especially during this time. Anna & Jeff Anderson
ReplyDeleteI have no words to say how heartbroken Katy and I are for the both of you and your family. I'm so sorry that our meeting today at lunch had to come under these circumstances. Even though our journey with Jacob has had its highs and lows, I can't imagine the agony in your heart. I believe that Anna was such a special creation of God's hands that He wanted her to join Him among the angels and saints in His Kingdom. On this most silent of nights, know that we are all praying with you for Anna Joy. Everyone who followed this journey was blessed to get to know the Peppley's! Love and Prayers,
ReplyDeleteAndy and Katy Rondeau
Matt, Alissa, & Family - Our family has not posted but we have been with you praying every day. Our hearts are soooo with you and we will continue with our prayers. Don & Alice Sampson, Josh & Tyra Sampson Taff & Family, and Tony & Mitzi Sampson
ReplyDeleteMatt & Alissa,
ReplyDeleteI've been praying for both of you, and for baby Anna Joy over the last week and a half. I've had a sense of peace that things were going to work out ok, but it looks like what I had thought about Anna Joy was not correct. But I still think it's going to be okay .... for both of you and for Isaac.
As I was thinking about what you are facing right now, I was reminded of a scene in "The Shack" (which I would encourage you both to read if you haven't already) where the main character is sitting with God the Father struggling with the loss of his daughter. God the Father says, ".... just because I work incredible good out of unspeakable tragedies doesn't mean I orchestrate the tragedies. Don't ever assume that my using something means I caused it or that I need it to accomplish my purposes. That will only lead you to false notions about me. Grace doesn't depend on suffering to exist, but where there is suffering you will find grace in many facets and colors."
My prayer is that you will hold on tight to the truth that God did not cause this tragedy, but that his grace will mysteriously surround you "in many facets and colors". I love you both. Uncle Jeff
Heavy hearts and lots of tears in Seattle. Praying for your family.
ReplyDelete-lacey (friend of Sarah Walker)
I am so sorry. God will take care of your little girl. I am praying for you all.
ReplyDeleteMy dear Alissa and Matt,
ReplyDeleteIt's been such a privilege to be praying for all of you these months and I won't be stopping now. I hope and pray that you will feel the love and strength of God now, as strong as ever. I can't pretend to understand your pain, or even my own at this point. But I do know that God IS good, all the time, and He is still holding us all. I'm forever in love with Anna Joy, as I know you are too - her life has changed so many of us for the better, drawing us to our Heavenly Father and to each other. Peace. And always, always, love. Aunt Wendy
I don't know you guys, but have been following your story. Every time I read I am flooded with tears. We serve a mighty God-sometimes we don't understand the circumstances that are given to us. My sister and brother in law had a baby Liam Isaac. He as born in late September and lived for 16 days. Similar story as you guys. Anna Joy's life will touch many and her story will be great(just as Liam's short life) --whether it be short or long. It's never too late for a miracle. I'll pray that God will give you the one we didn't get. Either road you are given, I will pray for you guys because I know it is /will be hard. I'm so sorry! May you find comfort in Jesus arms until your journey ends.
ReplyDeleteI don't know you, I only just saw this blog tonight. From one mother to another my heart aches for you. I can't even pretend to know how you are feeling. You must be one special very strong man and woman God chose to be the parents of this special little girl knowing the trouble she would face in her short little life. How lucky the two of you are to witness heaven when she drifted into your life and again when she has to leave. It seems so unfair as parents when you have to let go of a child. I can't imagine Gods thought process in this area. I do know that he knows you, not a sparrow falls that he isn't aware of. He loves you immensely and will help you through. Many many prayers to you until you see your little girl in the glory of Heaven.
ReplyDeleteDear Matt & Alissa,
ReplyDeleteWe have never met. I have a friend on facebook who posted to pray for you and your family and the blog address. I hit the button and read about your precious Anna Joy. My heart aches for you. When one of us grieves, we all grieve as the body of Christ. I was so touched by your story, by your lives, by your daughter. There are no words to comfort you, and best intentions to say the right thing fails miserably. I will be praying for our Lord to comfort you as only He can.
Praying for God's peace and strength as you walk through this valley. I am so thankful for the baby who came 2000 years ago to bring us our hope of eternal life.
ReplyDeleteI don't know you but through friends have heard of your story. I have been following your blog and I am saddened to tears to hear your news. I can not imagine what you must be going through. All I know is I can pray for you and I will! May God give you peace that only he can provide! And may sweet little Anna Joy touch the lives of many now and in the future! Praying still!
ReplyDeleteA friend a graduated high school with 13 years ago posted your blog link on Facebook. I clicked the link and have been reading your story for nearly an hour. I couldn't post a comment without creating a blog account, which I did so because my heart had to reach out, to tell you a complete stranger in Virginia is praying for you, your family, and your precious gift Anna Joy. She touched my heart tonight. She is a beautiful baby girl, the pictures are priceless. She is blessed to have amazing parents. I pray God brings you a miracle, and that he comforts you and gives you the strength you need. Your family will be deep in my prayers. Praise be to God, for he is the maker of all things. With Love in Christ.
ReplyDeleteMy heart is heavy. I am so sorry!
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear this... I will not stop praying for you and your family.
ReplyDeleteHugs and prayers...
ReplyDeleteA friend of mine posted a prayer request linked to your blog last week and I have been praying for your family. My heart is broken for you. As a mother to a 2 yr old boy and 8 month old girl, I can only imagine the pain you are feeling right now. I know you did not ask for this pain but I do know God is there for you. Anna Joy's challenges may have been too great to keep her in this world but He has surrounded you with people who's faces you don't even know and we are all lifting you up in prayer and I do believe this support is in His plan. I am blessed to have glimpsed your absolutely beautiful daughter. The faith and love you have shared with us has made me look at my own children differently and feel more grateful for their health and presence even when they are challenging toddlers.
ReplyDeleteI pray for God's peace in your life and thank you again for sharing Anna Joy with us.
My heart is so heavy for you. I know you will see your angel in heaven but until then I also know all too well that your hurting hearts will never be the same. I'm praying for you.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry! Thank you for sharing your story with the world and I will continue to pray for your family. Heaven needed another angel!
ReplyDeleteI pray for little Anna Joy, and I pray for you and your beautiful family. I have not even met you but have followed your blog through a mutual friend. I have not wanted to write to you before as I know your focus is with your sweet baby girl, rightly so. Only now with the most recent blog entry I feel the need to send this note. I am praying and wishing a miracle will happen, and your heavy hearts will be lightened. Please know my love, care, support, hugs and such deep prayers are with you. Sarah xoxox
ReplyDeleteOur hearts are breaking for you. However, we are inspired by the number of people around the world who are praying for one little family here in Olympia, and we are amazed at how God's people love on each other with only a simple request for prayer. May God lift your hearts at this extremely difficult time, and may it comfort you to know that so many are holding you in prayer.
ReplyDeleteAs we prayed for your broken hearts tonight, we had to ask one more time for healing. I know she is healed in the arms of Jesus, but oh, how we wanted her to be healed in your arms. We weep with you, and pray for your healing in spirit and mind. Love you!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLuaGiu73jc
ReplyDeleteMy heart broke for you and your family as I received the news that Anna now rests with our Lord and Savior. I'm crying even now; I can't even begin to fathom the pain you all must be feeling. I will keep you in my prayers this holiday season, trusting that God will show His love and mercy. May He wrap His loving arms tighter and tighter around you!
ReplyDeleteFrom one of Scott's childhood friends, now a pastor in SC: My heart breaks for this family that you have been sharing with us on Facebook. On June 2, 2002, my wife gave birth prematurely at 24 weeks to our Katelyn Hope Swan. She weighed 1 pound and 4 ounces and was 11 1/2 inches long. She fought bravely but on June 11, 2002, she went to be with Jesus. We held her for the first time during the last 45 minutes she was alive. She died in our hands. We watched her until she took her final breath. There is no pain like losing your own child in my opinion. We look forward to the day when we will see her again in heaven. Rest assured, my prayers are with this family.
ReplyDeleteMy heart is breaking for you! The only comfort at all is knowing that Jesus is right there and He is holding her in HIS arms.... WE love you!
ReplyDeleteTammie Rutledge
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with your family tonight. The passing of a little child is something we can never understand this side of heaven, but every single day we are gifted to be with our little ones is a precious gift of God.
ReplyDeleteLittle Anna joins a host of other little heart heroes up in heaven. I know those little ones and Jesus himself welcome her with open arms.
Praying for peace that passes every single shred of human understanding for you and your family tonight.
God is faithful, even when we don't understand.
*hugs*
May God's comfort be with you as you walk this road. Love to your family we are praying for you all
ReplyDeleteThere are no words, just a breaking heart & a prayer. You may never know here on earth what God has done through your little angel.
ReplyDeletePrayers for God to bring comfort & peace to you all.
Sending love & hugs from Ohio.
Betty Ann
I have been following your family's story prior to Anna Joy's birth. I wish that I could embrace you with all my might during this time. Your story and never ending faith have inspired me to begin again a personal relationship with God; so much so I attended your church recently. I found the scripture of that day so fitting in so many ways and wish to share it with you again.
ReplyDeletePeace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. John 14:27
Again, embracing you all in prayer.
My heart is pouring out for you guys right now... I can't imagine what you are going through. I pray for a peace that passes all understanding.
ReplyDeleteLifting you up to Jesus who know the pain of all your tears. Our hearts are aching for you and our prayers are with you.
ReplyDeletePsalm 34:17......why we have hope in our heartache.
ReplyDeletePraying praying praying for you all. I knew Katie from NNU. Have been so attached to you and Anna's story.
Grieving with you and yet rejoicing for the time that you had with your sweet baby girl. What a blessed little girl to be loved so dearly by such amazing parents. I will be praying continually for God to wrap you in His loving arms and to daily renew your strength and give you each day exactly what you need. Love you all.
ReplyDelete-Carrie Hays
I am so sorry that you have had so much heartache. I can't begin to imagine the pain you are feeling. I have been following your story and have been continued to pray for you and your sweet little girl. I pray that you will find some peace through all of this.
ReplyDeleteMatt, Alissa and family,
ReplyDeleteWe don't know you but our hearts are heavy with you. There are so many questions this side of heaven...May God be ever present with you and may you be comforted by knowing that our Lord holds each of you and your sweet baby Anna Joy together in loving arms. Our prayers continue to be with you.
Oh my...I can't even begin to tell you how sorry I am. My family will be thinking of you all...
ReplyDeletePeace be with your family. Isaac is blessed to have such loving parents.
ReplyDeleteAll our love,
The Woodruff family
Praying that you feel the presence of God surround you, and comfort you. We will continue to pray for you during these difficult times. Thank you for sharing Anna's story, and for letting us pray for you.
ReplyDeleteMy heart aches for you. Still praying for a miracle, but ultimately that you will all find peace. Precious baby girl you are so loved, and so brave. Your light has touched the hearts of so many.
ReplyDeleteSending so much love and light. Thinking of your family endlessly. <3
ReplyDeleteSpecial people,
ReplyDeleteI don't know, but via Angie Ketchum I followed your story. It really touched my heart the way you go through this hard time together with our Heavenly Father, may His love and comfort surround you rigth now in a very special way. Lift you up in my prayers, blessings Mirjam
What a testimony of faith you are to so many! I am so sorry for this heart-wrenching loss and praying for you to feel the arms of Christ around you. precious Anna will soon dine with her Maker - what a beautiful girl and a beautiful Savior.
ReplyDeleteChrissy Beppu Novak
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit" Romans 15:13
ReplyDeleteAs I was praying for your sweet family tonight, God gave me this verse for you. I am lifting you all in prayer. It is amazing to think that your precious baby that fought so hard is now resting in the precious arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! What an amazing thought.
Thank you for sharing your journey and hearts with us! We are so thankful. The Lord bless you and your family and keep you tightly in his loving arms. He promises to go before you in the days to come. Anna was a beautiful blessing! We were so touched by her brave fight.
ReplyDeleteMuch Love,
Amy & Joe
May ALLAH GOD bless you and lessen your worries. Oh ALLAH reduce their burden and exam and help them .. show mercy on their child.
ReplyDeleteQuran Learning
I'm so very sorry to hear the news. I cannot imagine the position you are in, to make such a hard decision. I just wanted to share my love and say that your beautiful daughter will not be forgotten.
ReplyDeleteI lost my son this May to heart defects as well and I still don't know what to say.
I will pray for peace for your family. <3
Your family has been on my heart, though we've never met. Peace be with you, and may the love of all of these people, all around the nation, be a comfort to you, even if it's a small comfort.
ReplyDeleteMy heart goes out to you.
ReplyDeleteAllisa and Matt,
ReplyDeleteYou dont know who I am nor I you, but 6 yrs ago I had a daughter jossalin 7lbs15oz and 18 1/2 in long. She survied just a few hours after delivery due to her lungs not functioning or being properly developed. She was our second child. I had mothers intuition that something was not right the last few months of pregnancy but kept going through the motions. The hard part is holding them and seeing them hooked up to machines struggling for a breath, for life. I read where you said that you were gonna see if God moves and let us know if he does, well I'm here to say God has his hand on this, so don't live in fear or the what ifs. He may not move in the plan you have but his plan is far greater than you'll ever know. It took me 4 yrs to get some kind of understanding and closure on loosing my baby. Because of her today I am now a paramedic and have the opportunity to help other moms and families. 4yrs ago I had to face what I feared which was working a cardiac arrest on a child, she had similar problems to which my daughter would have suffered and that was hard for any parent or person to experience but I thought to myself God knew what he was doing and she didn't have to suffer like this. No this doesn't mean there isn't hope that your baby will have a true miracle I'm not saying I wish either of those experiences on you, my point is that God knows, this is his child from the day she was created so no matter what your family's out come, love God and each other. I will pray for her and your family.
God bless
Jami
I am so sorry you have had to make this decision. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this hard time.
ReplyDeleteI am so so so sorry you guys had to go through this!
ReplyDeleteGentry Raptosh
My tears are flowing as I'm sure yours were when you wrote this post. I am so sorry. Praying for a miracle still. Being a new mom myself I understand how much love you have for your little one from the very beginning and can't imagine the magnitude of loss you must feel. Praying the Lord holds you close during this time.
ReplyDeletePrayers filled with tears. Knowing a God who sees and watched his son suffer. We don't know what the future holds but i do no you both know who holds the future. I am a forever friend who has never met you. I look forward to meeting my babies that died before they had a chance to breathe. mother of 5 praying His will for your family.
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. No words can ever describe the loss of a child. Anna Joy was a beautiful little girl and her short life was a truly a gift. Thank you for sharing her life with us all. God bless.
ReplyDeleteMatt and Alissa,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the updates.You are still in my heart and in my prayers. You both write so beautifully from the heart. I hope you will take your blog and your journaling and turn it into a book. You have a way with words and a very precious story to share.
God Bless you,
Tammie Rutledge
Matt and Alissa,
ReplyDeleteThinking of you and your family. I do miss reading your posts. I pray that you will have a blessed, peaceful Christmas...
Praying for you.
Tammie Rutledge