Will there be miracles?

Yahti is born on 23rd May 2009... like every other child, she is a little bundle full of unlimited potentials. We cannot see it but this tiny little tot presumably carries in herself the power to think and speak, choose and decide, see and learn and eventually become a mature human being.

But unfortunately, she was diagnosed at birth to be suffering from severe Glutaric Aciduria type 1 (GA1), an inherited rare, autosomal recessive metabolic disorder in which the body is unable to process certain proteins properly and Macrocephaly, a genetic condition that may be due to an enlarged brain or big head, water in the brain, bone overgrowth and other conditions. GA1 is dominated by dystonia, feeding problems, seizures and reduced life expectancy. Excessive levels of these amino acids and their intermediate breakdown products can accumulate and cause damage to the brain, particularly the basal ganglia, which are regions that help control movement. The most important factors determining life expectancy are the degree of mental retardation, mobility and the ability to feed.

Treatment may include intravenous fluids, bicarbonate and carnitine to keep her alive. Death usually occurs at childhood and the median age is 6 years. If left untreated, acute deterioration results in sudden death. However, the medication and supplements to keep Yahti alive is far beyond what her parents can afford. Is her life less precious than that of others born to rich and influential parents? There are many red tapes in order for her parents to get subsided medical treatment for their child… How sad it is that both parents are ignorant of the severity of her condition and decide not to give her the required supplements because of the high cost.

There is only that much we as volunteers can do… to do our best; give our utmost and let God do the rest. While I hope I am NOT a woman of little faith, it does take more than absolute trust in God… not only looking through the eyes of faith but through the eyes of God cos what she needs is a miracle. Sure, miracles still happen… moments when we are given unfailing strength to carry our cross or an unexplainable profound insight or a new experience of faith, hope and love… yes, anything, just about anything that shows the tangible love, compassion and mercy of God.

I hope I remember to bring my umbrella when I pray for rain for there will be miracles if we believe…