Friday, October 06, 2006
Home
At about 8:30 this morning Payton went home to be with Jesus. Her heart wasn't working at all anymore. We know it wasn't for lack of prayer or faith that Payton wasn't healed on this side of eternity. His plan was to take her home, and maybe this spares her from a great deal of suffering that she could have had down the road. She had so many more hurdles in front of her. We miss her deeply, and there's a hollow ache - but we're so happy she's with Jesus and whole again. We feel a peace that everything possible was done, and the staff took such good care of her. She looked at us a little this morning, and we were able to hold her before she went. Thank you so much for mourning with those who mourn and rejoicing with those who rejoice. We are doing both right now. Thanks for loving our little girl with us. We'll let you know about the service arrangements. Love, Aaron and Heather
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155 comments:
love you guys. We look forward to you being back in Eau Claire
Mattsons
We share your loss. Payton belonged to all of us during these months and she will be greatly missed. Thanks you for doing such a wonderful job of keeping us updated and sharing your little girl with us. We rejoice that she is fully healed and with our Heavenly Father. Perhaps she has met up with the little one whose heart she shared for a little while.
We lift you and your entire family up before our gracious Father.
Inge and Dudley
Aaron and Heather,
Our hearts ache with you today. Jesus is rocking little Payton in His arms right now and she's gazing into the eyes of her Saviour. Praise God you will see her one day again in Heaven. May the Lord bless the two of you through your faith in Him, and your testimony to His Greatness.
Know that you are loved so much Aaron and Heather and we look forward to seeing you and being here with you when you return to EC.
Love,
The Selvig's
Much love during this sad time. In Him, the Leasure-Kruse Family
Heather and Aaron,
Even though we haven't met you, but heard about you and Payton through family; we are praying for you right now! We are asking God for emotional healing for you both and that you will really sense His Peace throughout this time.
We rejoice and mourn with you!
Mary Skadahl (Jon and Holly's Aunt)
I'm so sorry, Aaron and Heather. I trust that is at least some joy in knowing Payton is with the Lord.
I pray the Lord would protect you from the enemy, lies against you, lies that would do anything to attack your marriage.
-Adam Go
Jesus, take Aaron and Heather into your arms. Hold them there and let them know your peace and love. Thank you, Jesus, for being all we need.
Paul and Linnea Quam
We love you guys - and will be praying you through this time. I know it's great that Payton is with Jesus, but I also know you miss her being with you. May God's grace surround you and be sufficient for you.
With much love and prayer,
Karen & Brian Johnston
my heart hurts with you. remember, not one of your tears escapes our Lord - His arms are big enough to hold Payton and you both at the same time...
everytime i think of you, which is often, i am praying for you.
abi normington
cherokee,!A
Heather & Aaron,
I just wanted you to know our heart goes out to all of you who are there packing up and getting ready to go home. Jesus created baby Payton and now gets to hold her in His arms...what joy. To everything there is a season, to everything there is a time and I'm glad we all had this time with Payton. Luv you guys a lot and will see you soon!
Lucas and Eir
Mourning with you. Love you.
Jen Duey
Our love and prayers have been and will continue to be with you as you experience the grief of your loss. We know God will take care of Payton and will console you and give you His indescribable peace. Thank you for sharing your lives with all of us around the world.
Pastor Ken and Sherie Bergstedt
Hope EFC, Roscoe, IL
Home . . . it's what we all long for, but I cannot imagine your loss. My heart aches for you. Payton fought a long, hard battle and now she is the arms of Jesus. I do not understand, but I trust God for His providence. I will continue to pray for your journey ahead. I am so sorry. Love, In Christ, Joyce Alison
I just feel like the whole world should stop!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
This world is so cruel, but there is a better one coming soon.
we love you SO much
phyllis & terry
Have been reading and following Payton's blog for some time now. Just want to let you both know that I am sorry for your loss and I will continue to pray for all of you.
Stephanie
Heather and Aaron,
Our hearts ache with yours and we also rejoice with you that Payton is healed and is in the arms of our Savior. We rejoice that you will see her again and finally hear her sweet voice. We know that God's ways are not our ways but that His ways are perfect and that through precious Payton's life, He is glorified.
We rejoice that God has provided a way for us to have eternity with Him through Jesus Christ and that our hope is in Him.
We rejoice that our God is a sovereign God and that His grace is sufficient and that when we are weak, He is strong.
We are rejoicing and mourning with you.
We love you,
Russ and Peggy Dangerfield
I am at such a loss for words but I just wanted to thank you for being the incredible encouragement and example that you have been these past five months. I can't even comprehend how God is going to use this for his glory.
Much love-
Chanelle
My heart goes out to you Heather & Aaron and all of your family and friends that have been involved in Payton's life. I feel like I have been part of her life with all the updates even though I have never meet you.
I will continue to pray for you all, for the healing and strenght that you will need in these next few days,months and years.
As inge said "We rejoice that she is fully healed and with Our Heavenly Father."
Love and Prayers
Aaron and Heather,
Todd and I were talking about your family last night, and specifically what wonderful parents you have been to little Payton. "Home" is an apt name for where she is right now... from your loving arms to the arms of the One Who loved her enough to die for her. We grieve with you, but rejoice with her at the same time. You are precious to us, and we will continue to pray for you.
With much love,
Christine and Todd Mathews
This morning my heart was heavy and I started to cry. My kids and I have been praying for you. As I drove them to school at 8:45 this morning I was overwhelmed with grief and sorrow. I heard a song that stated, "we have only had you for a short while and now we must give you wings to let you fly and I knew that Payton had gone on to be with Jesus.
You have been through such an incredibly difficult journey and God will sustain you. Thank you for letting us come on this journey, in a small way, with you! We will continue to pray for you!!
Michelle Zilmer (Susie Brun's sister)
The Morgans just want you to know they support you and love you so much. They are praying for you and can't wait to see you. They are in the new building for Jacob's well today working, and have no internet. Matt asked me to write for himself and Sarah to you guys.
Sara Mattson
Aaron and Heather,
I weep with you and will be interceeding for you in the days and weeks to come. Praise Jesus we can be confident that Payton is at home with our Father!
Love to you,
Hanni
Grieving your loss, friends... Love to you.
Aaron and Heather,
I weep with you and will be interceeding for you in the days and weeks to come. Praise Jesus we can be confident that Payton is at home with our Father!
Love to you,
Hanni
still with you. still praying. sad and rejoicing at the same time. love.
No words... only tears...
I will be praying...
-Rachel Walters (and Colton, Calvin and Carrera)
Heather and Aaron,
So sorry to hear about your loss. Indeed Payton is home!
We in the UWEC campus Christian community will be praying for you as you mourn for Payton and recharge your batteries. May God bless you and keep you.
Aaron and Heather,
Although nothing we can say can take away the pain that you are going through, we hope that they can at least comfort you and help you through this tough time. I'm so glad that I had the chance to meet Payton. She will always be a part of our lives and will be a constant reminder of her strength and desire to live. Again, I just want you to know how much your faith has been an inspiration to me. I've never seen people with faith like your's. God will definitely reward your faith and devotion to Him throughout the rest of your days as well as in eternity when you can see little Payton again. We love you guys tremendously and like everyone else, can't wait to have you back in EC again.
Love,
Josh, Brittany and Aidan van Gorkom
We love you and we look forward to seeing Payton again when we go "home." She had such an impact on so many in her brief stay here. We know she is in His arms right now, but we do miss her dearly.
We'll see you soon.
Sara
You are in our prayers and in our thoughts. We are deeply sorry for your loss but are also rejoicing with you that Payton is now with her creator. We will be praying that God will continue to comfort you and surround you in the days to come.
Jake and Natalie
Beloved Aaron and Heather -
There are no words to convey the depth of emotion I feel at Payton returning home. As Pastor John noted in his daily devotion a few days ago, Heather was writing him a card about losing his mother that said that even though you know your loved one is with Jesus, it still hurts to not have them here with you. I know it hurts - I pray for God's peace which passes all understanding. Payton has touched many lives and has strengthened my faith by your example. Your faithfulness and trust in God's plan daily encourages me. Thank you and God bless you! Take care of each other during this difficult time.
In His love, Norah, Airth, Heather and Rachel
Our hearts break, even as they rejoice over the complete and total healing the Father has worked in Payton. Aaron and Heather, we praise our God for the faithful and steadfast witness that you have shared with so many during these last months. we are forever changed through your example.
Sonja and Randy Reimer
(Y basketball)
When we received the news I could not stop weeping... even now I cannot stop. We are grieving with you and wish we could just wrap our arms around you right now. We love you.
My heart aches for your family. You have all been through so much! Payton is finally free, though! Halleluiah! I'll be sure to hug my baby boy extra tight and thank God for him! I pray that you continue to find strength and comfort in Jesus Christ.
Words can't express how sorry I am. When one part of Christ's body hurts, we are all impacted. We are mourning with you today. You will remain in our prayers. May Jesus hold you close...
We love you,
alli
Aaron and Heather,
You have been an insperationm to all of us having to deal with one of the most difficult times of our lives. As parents we hope and pray that we never have to bury a child but you have given us all hope that we can all survive with the love and prayers from our family, friends and most importantly GOD. God bless you guys and we will see you at the funeral to rejoice in the life of baby Payton.
Love: Josh, Sharon,Lauren & Lucas Jones
Payton has gripped the hearts of countless people. I have prayed for her as if she were my own daughter. The grief I feel right now feels as though I am mourning for my own daughter. I am so glad that she is with Jesus, but so sad that she is not with you - I wanted that so badly. Thank you for taking us along on this journey with you. This journey doesn't stop here, it will keep going and I hope we can continue to journey together. Please, if you are able, continue to share your thoughts and needs with us. You have and will continue to be on my heart and in my prayers.
Rejoicing and mourning with you,
Karen
Mourning with you and rejoicing that Payton is with Jesus telling Him how much you love her and how much the doctors and nurses tried so valiently to help her. You will see her again! May the Holy Spirit comfort you with Jesus' presence as you go through these next days and weeks.
"I will never leave you or forsake you...."
Nancy
Payton's little light shone brighter and was probably loved and prayed for more in a few months than many people experience in their lifetime. Thank you for sharing her with us... we loved her and will miss her too. But my heart grieves with you and will be praying for you both as you experience the greatest loss of all. love you, Shanda
we miss you guys and we will be praying for the Lord's comfort and peace to be upon. Payton taught us all so much through her short time here. we love you guys. May God bless and comfort you
jake and hilary
i am soo sorry for your loss, i know you don't know me but i am a sister in faith and my heart goes out to you. i will continue to pray for your family as the healing process continues now know that Payton is not in your past but she is in your future.. with all love of christ .. mom86421
Our hearts are aching for you. We will continue to pray for you guys and look forward to meeting Payton in Heaven one day.
Love, the Curtis family
Heather & Aaron,
My heart is breaking, and yet rejoicing that Payton is now totally free of tubes, needles, and machines and she is once again whole and new.
I thank God for the nurses,doctors and all the staff at Mayo. I'm sure the three of you will be remembered for a long time.
I agree with several of the people who have written before that Payton's life has touched more people around the world than some people do in a full lifetime.
Thank you for being so open and allowing us to be a part of Payton's life.
We will continue to hold you up in our prayers. I ask God to surround you with a peace that passes all understanding as you go through these next hours, days & months........
Love, Dwayne & Pam Barker
We are SO SO sorry to hear about Payton.
We mourn alongside of you,
praying for you and your marriage to endure
for your relationship wtih Jesus too
CHIP and LIsa Martinson
Aaron & Heather~ I can't begin to tell you how sorry I am. It was my prayer that Payton would be healed but last night and early this morning I was prayer was that we would know and accept His will. That's such a hard prayer to pray because He doesn't always answer the way we would like it. I can't begin to tell you what a witness you two were the last 4 months. God is good and He is faithful even when we don't understand His ways. I know that we will all grow from this and that many hearts were touched with little Payton's fight. I love you, consider yourself hugged. Besure to let Grandma and Grandpa Jones know that we are thinking of them too at this time. I'm greiving with you and continue to lift you up in prayer.
With love ~ donna
Mourning and rejoicing with you. Will pray for peace in the upcoming days.
Will and Jill Hayes
Aaron and Heather,
I'll be praying that you experience the love and peace that can only come from God in this time. And I'm rejoicing with you that Payton can experience that same love and peace and much more with God in Heaven.
Brandon Danger Vonk
I'm holding you tightly in prayer and wishing I could do more. I'm just a stranger, but I've been following your story and am praying Jesus will give you that extra measure of grace right now. God truly blessed Payton by giving her parents who love her so deeply. Please know that your family in Christ loves you.
Our hearts go out to you during this time of sadness. Payton is now whole and will be watching over her loving family and friends.
love Bill, Lanell & Hayley Becker
Aaron and Heather,
My heart aches for you as I read that Payton is no longer here with you. But I am also rejoicing that she is home with our Father, whole, free of tubes and wires, free of pain. What an amazing place to be, in the arms of Jesus. You will continue to be in my prayers in the hours, days, weeks, and months ahead. You two have such an amazing faith and may God continue to strengthen and bless you through it. You are such amazing parents. God knew exactly what he was doing when He chose you two as Payton's parents.
In Christ,
Beth
Rochester MN
Our prayers are with you and we cry tears for the loss we all feel here on earth. The ultimate miracle has happened. Payton is with her Lord. Love, Dan and Marilyn
Heather and Aaron,
I am still praying, I love you both and can't wait to see you again.
Mike P.
I don't know you, but I know about you. I just want to thank you for the faith that is very evident in both of your hearts. I can only imagine how many people God is speaking to through your situation right now and for years to come and the encouragement you will be to so many other people in your place.
To Him be the glory!
my heart aches right now to hear this news...but to know that she is with jesus brings comfort, for there is no better place to be. payton was such a joy and a blessing - thank you for sharing her with us.
we will continue to pray for you both.
we love you and miss you,
nate and gina
Even though we've never met, we've been following your story through family. We will keep you both in our prayers for healing through this difficult time.
The White family (Tammy Hunt's sister)
I wish you great peace at this time.
There is a Buddhist tale about two monks who are lost in the desert. Suddenly they see a bright oasis in front of them, just behind a wall. They can see branches of green trees and hear the river running behind the wall, at the oasis. One monk jumps over the wall and reaches the oasis. The other monk returns to the desert to show lost travellers the way to the oasis.
This story reminds me of you two and of Payton. Payton has reached the oasis and you remain to show others the way forward.
With loving kindness and compassion to both of you.
Amanthi.
God is near through all things...and sweet Payton knows Him right now more fully than all of us. Praying for you and your families.
Jen Haugh
You two are SO loved right now. My heart is with you both. You are an inspiration for all...
much love and prayer.
You don't know me but I've been following Payton's journey for a month or more and praying fervently for your family and her. Though Payton was with us only a short time she made a great impact on a lot of people. She accomplished more in her brief time here on earth than most adults do during their entire life. She brought about unity, love, caring, compassion and more. She crossed religious boundaries. She drew complete strangers to her and allowed us to share in her witness. She awakened us all to how blessed we are. She got me back into a meaningful prayer life. I am so grateful to have gotten to know her through your blog and I look forward to meeting her when I get to heaven.
In the meantime my family and I will lift you and your entire family up to the Lord so that you will feel is comfort and love during this time abundantly.
He gives and takes away. It is amazing to think how God was already given so much glory through this baby, even if her life was so brief. What a joy to know she's in heaven, and that she fulfilled her purpose so puerly on earth-- to bring glory to God :) How beautiful a thought. You all are in my prayers.
Love,
Ruthie
Arise and be comforted
For the Lord, He is good to the weary
And even the young heart can tire and fall
But He knows them all
For the Lord, He will renew their strength
And they will soar on wings as eagles
And they will run and never grow weary
They will walk and not grow faint
For the Lord, He is good
Words fail right now. Payton can never be replaced and she will never be forgotten.
I just can't wait to be there in Heaven to see the moment when you guys get to hold her again. Her body will be whole and she will come running into your arms the moment she sees you.
Until that moment, may your memories of your little girl and the love of God get you through the hardest time in your lives.
I love you guys and will be praying for you always.
Teara and Jason
I can not imagine your loss, but I know God can. I am so sorry for your heartache. I have to visualize Patton in heaven, completely healed and already enjoying time with Jesus. I know that God is so thankful for the wonderful care and love you gave to Patton while she was entrusted in your care here on earth.
I want to write something - but what can we say to show how we love you, and that we grieve with you? Like someone already posted: "I want the world to STOP!" and recognize that is just lost a child of God, and then rejoice that heaven just received her... Augh.
My heart is trying to sing old hymns, and lift prayers on your behalf. I echo the posts that have thanked you for inviting us into this journey with you, and helping us to renew our commitment for intercession. We won't stop praying for you...
much love,
joy feldner
God used Payton's little life to touch so many people! We are aching that she's not here but rejoicing that she is whole and perfect with Jesus! We love you and will continue to pray for you. Love, Andy, Dawn and Lily
Aaron & Heather,
we are mourning with you in this sad time and loss. We also know how great of parents you were to little Payton, and rejoice that she is now with her Heavenly father. We love you guys and will continue to pray for you and your family.
The Leinen's
We are praying for you and will continue to as you move forward. We've been praying with you for weeks and know that Jesus will continue to sustain you during this difficult time. ~ DJ and Alisha Jenkins (psw staff)
My thoughts and prayers go out to Aaron and Heather. Words can not express how I am feeling and what I know you must be going through. I too find happiness in knowing Payton is with Jesus and the suffering for her is gone. I pray that God has you and your families in his arms and is helping you through this time. Time heals our pain, but remember the smiles and the beautiful pictures of her, that I have enjoyed with her grandma Ila. Peace, Pam Loewe
I look at this Blog site and see God work through it. He has used you to encourage others in their faith and also to encourage me. Thank you for giving your lives to full-time ministry for the Lord through Campus Crusade! I have learned so much about the love that God has for us! I have also learned more about praying because of Payton and I thank God for her life here on earth, no matter how long it was. She was here to glorify Him, and she has done that so beautifully!
Heather and Aaron,
I have been checking your blog everyday for all of these months, but never wrote a comment, because what can I say? All I could ever think of was to mention how fitting it was that little Payton had so much hair! But she really was a little spark in this big, dark world, that you couldn't miss, reminding us to stop and pray. Reminding us of what is important. She really did have a huge impact, spanning the globe. I want to thank you, like so many others, for sharing her with all of us. She was loved, and so are both of you. I can't wait to meet sweet Payton.
Brooke Peterson
Our staff team was all together this morning...praying for you, weeping with you, sharing about how we are all doing. It was so interested to me to hear from our team how much your lives have intersected all of ours. People were sharing how their faith has grown, been stretched...how their prayer lives have deepened as we've all tried to be in this with you from hundreds of miles away.
We checked your blog when we were finished and were overwhelmed by grief. Ohhhhh how we love you guys and are so sad for you and with you. Our prayers will not stop. We love you deeply.
Casey and the UND team
While we have never met personally, our family mourns the loss of your beautiful Payton. We have been praying for you and will continue to pray that our gracious and merciful God give you the strength and peace in the most difficult of circumstances.
Trusting in our Savior,
Bill & Stacey Borrenpohl (friends of Josh & Tammy Hunt)
We cannot understand the depth of sorrow and loss you feel as you miss this little one that came into your life just a few months ago and changed you forever. We cannot feel the joy you experience as your faith exhudes through you -- clear in every blog entry we've read. All we know is that in some small way, we are feeling your loss and your joy half a world away, praying that should the Lord choose to walk us through something similair, He would extend the grace to walk through it just like you have. You continue to inspire us. We wish we could be there with you. We -- all your family here in Adana -- mourn and rejoice with you and will continue to pray for you through the grieving process.
Mike & Ginger
Sweet Jesus, I pray your peace over Heather and Aaron today. Father, you give good gifts and that is exactly what Precious Payton was and is. Lord Jesus, hold her tight with Your Love that can come only from the Divine, a love so much greater than we can give. Holy Spirit, manifest yourself right now with Heather and Aaron. I pray that they would hear your still, soft voice telling them, "Well done, good and faithful servants". We praise you Father God, for being a God of comfort and peace...Open the Flood Gates of Heaven, Dear Jesus. Let it Reign. We love you! In your Precious Name...
I love you Aaron and Heather.
<>< Abby
we pray for you as you mourn the loss of your little one. But, what a peace to know she's in our Father's hands!!
Payton has had such a mighty impact on us in her 5+ months. She has challenged our faith and brought us to God. She has helped to affirm the true value in life and in suffering. You have been so transparent and an amazing example of obedience and acceptance. Thanks for sharing the blessing of Payton with so many others, including us. You have lived out the truth that she belongs to God and He had (and has) a work and mission in her time here with you with us. The thought of her radiance in heaven is overwhelming and brings tears to our eyes.
We continue to lift you up. We affirm your journey as you grieve her loss and rejoice in her homegoing. You are SO much in our hearts (as is little mighty Payton) and our talks with God.
We love you guys. Remember God is holding you right now and has his arms wrapped around you and your family. Kylie asked me earlier why I was crying? I replied Payton went home to be with Jesus. She said mommy, she has a new heart it won't hurt anymore. Even though Kylie is only 3 Payton has made a huge impact on her life. She loves to pray for people! What a more powerful gift to give a young child, then to teach her to pray. Thank you for sharing Payton with us. God has changed our lives through you. We are still praying for you.
Love you,
Jess, Todd, Kylie and Kaleb Westberg
Aaron and Heather,
Jenny and I have been following your updates closely, and grieve deeply with you, You have been in our prayers and will remain in them. Our deepest sympathies go out too you, we rejoice in Payton's life, and the joy she brought to your lives. We love you guys, and will be thinking of you often.
Heather and Aaron,
The past five months have been such a testimony of God's love, faithfulness and power. Payton being with Jesus right now is definitely bittersweet. I'll be praying and thinking of you as the healing process begins. May you continue to draw near to Him in this. Thank you for sharing this experience with us--family, friends, students and strangers. It has been a huge blessing to everyone.
Karey L.
aaron and heather - my heart mourns with you both, but how sweet to know she is in such a better place with no pain or sickness. you both will be surrounded with prayer in the days to come. love, megan appell
We are so sorry to hear that your little girl did not make it. I am in a bible study with Linda Swenson and we have been praying for her for several weeks and I know that this is not the answer we all wanted, but I am happy she is with Jesus and not in any pain. Thanks for showing us the courage, patience and strength that can only come from our Savior. I'm praying for peace for your family now and in the coming days.
Rob and Sherry Strohbusch
Dear Aaron and Heather,
As I have shared your story with others, I found myself commenting on the depth of character that shone through so obviously on the blogs. Your faith has caused mine to grow, and the way you have walked with Jesus on this journey with Payton will bring Glory to Him in ways you might never know.
Thinking back to that amazing slide show of you two with Payton...I watched it over and over and felt closer to you though I don't know you well. Thank you for blessing us all with the experience of sharing Payton's life through your honest and faith-filled communication.
There are no words to say that cut the sorrow:
for I've been were you are. The peace you have, I understand! been there Phil.4:7
just hang on to the love and memories of Payton and hold each other tight and He will hold you tighter. We thank God for the time He did give you with Payton, though it is always too short!! We continue to pray for you!
Aaron and Heather,
Your faith, hope and love throughout this season has been truly inspiring. You have clung to Jesus during this ordeal and really experienced the gospel. Thank you so much. We love you and look forward to giving you a big hug soon.
Neil and Jenny Downey
I have to believe we all have a purpose, a duty in this life here on earth. You don't have to read very far into the comments and blessings filling this page to know with certainty that Payton fulfilled hers. I am sad beyond measure for your loss. Thankful that you have shared your triumphs, and sorrows, and that you have allowed strangers like me to cover you in prayer, in your most anxious moments, now let Christ cover you in grace as you give him your grief. May God bless you and keep you in fath until you see your sweet angel again. Rest knowing that her life united us all, and today and for many to come, we will greive her loss and celebrate her wholeness with her maker. Your steadfast faith has forever changed my life.
Nicole Walker
I'm so sorry. Know that I am praying for you guys over here in Iraq and Liz I know is praying for you as well
Joshua Kulzer
(Liz "Stillman" Kulzer's husband
For now we see through a glass dimly, but then face to face.
Your precious daughter is face to face with her Creator today. In this time of grief, what a sweet comfort that is.
Aaron and Heather, you have shown Christ as glorious through all of this. Thank you for being a reflection of his goodness and a testimony to all of us of His sustaining grace.
We are persevering in prayer for you.
For now we see through a glass dimly, but then face to face.
Your precious daughter is face to face with her Creator today. In this time of grief, what a sweet comfort that is.
Aaron and Heather, you have shown Christ as glorious through all of this. Thank you for being a reflection of his goodness and a testimony to all of us of His sustaining grace.
We are persevering in prayer for you.
Aaron and Heather,
We love you both and are praying for you. Payton will be in our hearts forever. We look forward to someday meeting her in Heaven. We have tears of sadness, for not having her here with us. At the same time, tears of happiness, in knowing that she is with Jesus.
With Love,
Sandra, Terry, Emma & Trent
I'm just another total stranger (friend of some Cihla's) in Central Illinois who has been praying for you. My family & friends all over the country have been praying for you as well...and we will continue to do so. As a mom, I can't even wrap my mind around the pain. But as a Christian, all I can think of is "I will praise You in this storm!" May God be your strength and your portion through this loss.
In Christian Love,
Tracy K.
Thank you, Heather & Aaron for being shining lights in a dark world. You have shown that your faith cannot be destroyed, just like Job in the Bible. We can't always understand why God allows things to happen, but we do know that he blesses those who are faithful to Him. Your little family has blessed so many people, and we pray that God will bless you for your faithfulness. We will be mourning and rejoicing with you,
The Nordgrens
Dear Aaron and Heather,
We are so sorry...when I told our boys about Payton, they wondered if they had ever met her. I told them no, and Andrew said,"Yeah, but we can be her friend in heaven when we get there!" We know there will be hard days to come... so thankful God will continue to walk beside you and strengthen you. We love you and will mourn and rejoice with you.
Love, Ellisa for the Lettners
You're in my thoughts and prayers.
-Matt Ritsema
My prayers are with you! Sharing in your ache as she has gone home to heaven but also the joy of knowing she is WITH JESUS!
Amanda Martin
I just want to thank you two for the way you have served the Lord through this. You guys have been such a huge model in my life and have made such a huge impact on campus here. I cant wait to hang out with your whole family in heaven. We can have a big Mailloux Jones get together with Jesus. Love you guys.
Johnny
Jones Family...
You don't know me. I was asked to pray for your family through a friend at church who then linked me to your page. I'm so incredibly sorry for what you all have been through. But I need you to know that you shine as awesome examples even in this time of grief!
may the Lord bless you and keep you,
Becky
Aaron and Heather,
You are in everyone's prayers. Payton is being watched over and you will get to see her soon. You both are loved dearly and have helped me grow in my faith. For this I want to thank you. God bless you during these trying times.
Aaron and Heather,
You are in everyone's prayers. Payton is being watched over and you will get to see her soon. You both are loved dearly and have helped me grow in my faith. For this I want to thank you. God bless you during these trying times.
Carmen Micke
Praise God that we have Jesus. May you feel his presence.
Heather and Aaron-
My heart ached this morning when I heard that little miss Payton had joined her heavenly Father. I will continue to pray for you and your family in these times of trial and thanksgiving.
Gretchen Matthews
We continue to hold you and your family in our prayers.
Love in Christ,
Amanda and Matt Travis
We are truly sorry for your loss, but praising God for she is in His arms, we have been following you since Payton's birth and praying knowing that God knew what was to be in her life and yours.
We continue in pray for you.
Beloit, WI
<>-<
Heather and Aaron, I feel blessed to have been able to care for your angel, but deeply saddened that God needed her back so soon. You are a wonderful couple. May God give you the strength needed to get through this difficult time.
In sympathy, Erinn Erickson, RN, ICU, St.Mary's Hospital, Rochester, MN
The Beauty Arrives and The Beauty Returns...Payton's perfect bookend scrapbook blog. Can't wait for The Beauty Reunites while we discover over time just what the beauty accomplished in her 5 months here. I continue to enjoy every picture. My QT today also included these verses, "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior." Is 42:2-3, like the bottom of your blog states. Also in my QT by Ann Spangler,"Remember that Jesus will not leave us orphans. He will show himself to those who love him." Jn 14:15-21 Absent from the body, but present with the Lord. Your little beauty has placed her crown at His feet. WOW. What a work she did indeed!!! I am so glad you got to hold her and look into each others eyes. May you always take that Immanuel moment with you and may God continue to bless your ministry. Thank you for sharing your precious gift with us. Love, The Hoehn's
What a special and beautiful girl, now held in her Father's arms. I love you both and you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers.
Lisa Champlin
Aaron and Heather,
Dave and I were on the phone on his lunch break when we heard of Payton's home going. We wept together--we are so deeply grieved at your loss, and yet we were so thankful that she was ushered--beautiful and whole--into the waiting arms of Jesus. Her life has touched ours with such depth. Thanks for loving her and the Lord...you have helped us do so even more. We love you guys,
Dave, Vicki & James Newendorp
Aaron and Heather,
I know it may not be of much Consolation, but I'm sorry Payton didn't get to grow up with you guys as her folks...Rest assured that all will be well with time and you'll get to see Payton again sooner than you think...Thinking of you guys in your hour of loss...
Brian Jones the long lost cousin...
Aaron & Heather - i am so sorry for the loss of your precious little girl. i'm praying that the Lord would wrap his loving arms around you during this time and bring you peace.
Amber Hobbie (friend of Dawn & Andy Becker
Heather and Aaron,
My prayers and deepest sympathies are with you... Let Jesus hold your baby girl and heal your hearts in his name.
Love Haley
None of us will ever know the ripple affect that Payton's life will have had on this world and God's kingdom. My guess is she did more in 5 months than most will do in a lifetime. Thanks for being great parents!
Praying for you,
Ryan, Tiffany, Riley, and Jake
I shouldn't have read the 113 comments that have been posted today before I wrote to you---now I'm a puddle. Wow, people all over really do love you guys, and I am no exception. I'm just so sad that your arms are empty. I pray that the Lord would flood you with grace and peace as you walk in sadness,
Blessings, Patty McCain
Words just can not possibly express how our hearts ache for you guys right now. Thank you for allowing us to be in the trenches with you during the ups and downs of the last 5 months. We've laughed & cried in the last 5 months as we've stood with you in prayer. The Lord really used Payton in my life to remind me of many things about His character that I'd forgotten and He chose to use her sweet, little life and her death to renew, restore and renovate many people's prayer lives.( including mine) We will continue praying and interceding for you guys. . . that is a promise. Rejoicing & Deeply
Grieving with you, Josh, Tammy & Abby
So many hearts ache with your loss of sweet little Payton. She will remain in our hearts forever. I don't know of another child who has touched as many lives as she did in her 5 months. She is whole now and perfect and safe in the arms of Jesus! Love and Prayers, The Kings
Our deepest love and our deepest sympathy is with you guys. Our hearts are breaking and rejoicing with you. We continue to pray for Jesus' nearness to be known as you grieve.
Dear Aaron and Heather and Family, Our hearts are aching for you , we understand that hollow ache for we too lost our 1st child. We love your precious little Payton like so many others,and your little girl has touched and witnessed to the lives of many in her short life journey on this earth, as have you! We know our children are in the arms of Jesus and that is our comfort! Please know that you and your family are in our hearts and prayers now and in the days ahead. Sending our love and prayers of comfort and peace. David and Rita Nelson
Aaron and Heather,
Bonnie called me and told me of your loss right as I was heading into our 10:30 a.m. staff meeting. When I shared about Payton, tears flowed along with our prayers. As families, we had all been monitoring her progress and praying for your family before, so when we heard today's news, we couldn't help but pray together. Our hearts went out to you and we ached for you. We all had come to love you dearly. Some had more opportunity to know you before, but through your blog and situation, you've become dear to us all. We wish and pray for God's presence and people to come to your aid and comfort you now.
Scott and Bonnie Roe
Madison, WI
Aaron,Heather,Pam and Dan
Living so close for so many years has brought your Payton and your family close to our hearts these past few months. We share and feel your sorrow.
We saw sweet little Payton when you were in Portage safley cradled in Grandma's arms. This is the picture we have carried in our hearts and minds while we prayed for her and will remain there forever.
We know now she is safley cradled in the arms of our Lord.
We followed your postings diligently and have admired your strength & faith which has been a lesson to all of us. Your are a remarkable couple with remarkable family support, you will be ok.
Don And Jean Nelson
Dear Aaron, Heather and family,
Please be assured our hearts and prayers are with you as we all feel the loss of precious Payton. What a courageous short life of five months she lived, and how well you two cared for her and demonstrated a firm faith in the love and provision of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is so comforting to know she is in the arms of Jesus and that in His good timing you and all who trust in Him will be reunited with her. She now has the strongest heart of any of us. We will continue to uphold you in our prayers. Jim, Sandy and Sara Parrish
We are so sorry about your loss of Little Payton. She has had quite a struggle, and so has all her family. You don't know us, but we know your folks Aaron, and we know Eldon & Lucille. We live in Richland Center. We are from Glee & Gerry's church. We feel like we know you. Our sincere Sympathy.
Gaylord & Stella Moser
Aaron & Heather,
Like all those above, Alli and I have been following closely the story of your little one. We have prayed for her and for you. We love you guys very deeply even though we have not seen each other in awhile.
I cannot imagine the whirlwind of emotions that you are feeling and the questions of where you go from here. You will still be in our prayers for some time. I cannot help but believe that God is proud of you guys. I know that I am. May the two of you feel the closeness of the Lord as He heals your hurt (Ps 34:18).
Into His arms,
Kevy
A/H
I alternate between feelings of sadness and feelings of joy for you! Our sadness is because we miss her here on this earth with us. Our joy is because she no longer feels pain and is whole. She is in the arms of her Heavenly Father who will care for her in His perfect way! I pray that you will feel the Lord's very real presence and His peace at this time. J/P
Aaron and Heather:
Our hearts ache with you yet we rejoice knowing that Payton is in the arms of Jesus. Thank you for sharing her with us. What a testimony and inspiration your are. You will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
The Platzbeckers
Roscoe, IL
Dear, dear friends... though we posted earlier today, we wanted to tell you again that we are in this with you. Words have not seemed sufficient or even appropriate at a time like this... only tears and momentary smiles through the tears as we think of your sweet baby in the tender hands of her amazing Creator and loving Father. We love you so much and continue to fight for you in prayer.
"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God."
II Corinthians 1:3-4
I was given this scripture many years ago when my little girl died. I can't tell you how many times in my life God has allowed people to cross my path, who have lost a child.
I understand the loss and physical ache. I felt like a part of me had been amputated. Don't hold back the tears, they are cleansing. Don't be afraid to greive. Cling to each other and to the One who "knit Payton together in your womb". He will never fail, He sees the whole picture.
Rejoice in the knowledge that we will all see our little ones again.
"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints".
Ps 116:15
May you be wrapped in the blanket of His peace.
Your in our prayers as we are both grieving over your loss and rejoicing that she is now with the Lord.
"Trust in the Lord with all of your heart, and lean not on your own understanding..."
Proverbs 3:5,6
You will continue to be in our thoughts and prayers over the difficult days to come.
Love,
Dave and Wendy
Hi Aaron and Heather:
Although we've moved to the Twin Cities, you have been in our hearts and prayers. I have visited your blog often and we cried on Thursday night as we read your recent posts just before God called your angel home. We viewed Holly Peter's photo gallery of you with Payton again too. What a beautiful little girl with loving parents. You have been a shining example of how to handle life's toughest challenge as a parent.
As I prayed with the boys tonight, we talked about the other family too that lost a baby--the donor family.
We will pray for your rest, your relief, your greiving process, and your warm welcome back to ministry and your family at Calvary Baptist.
You were faithful through it all. Thank you!
Bob Nutting (for Deb and the boys)
I am so sorry for you loss, words cannot tell but I am praying that Jesus will fill the emptiness and sadness that you both feel. I do not know you but have met some of your friends and I know your strong faith in God will lead you through this darkness.
Marti
I am Lyndsey Stulp's cousin and I just wanted to tell you that I have been keeping track of your family and I am very sorry to hear of your loss. I know how special she was to you and to everyone that knew her...even people that didn't know her. I will be keeping your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Aaron and Heather, we are so sorry. We love you and can't wait to see you soon. There's joy in knowing that starting today Payton sees and hears and understands what God has in store for those who love him.
Eric and Jess
A friend asked me a few weeks ago to check your blog and pray. This morning especially I felt the urge to pray for you and Payton on my entire 45 minute drive to work. I pleaded for all of you for a good share of it, and right before I got to work, the scenery was brilliant, the sun was exceptionally bright, "How Great Thou Art" was playing, and I became very peaceful, knowing that God was entirely in control, feeling as if a turn had been made. Apparently it was shortly after that that He took her home. I wanted to share this because it was such a miraculous feeling and connection to someone I don't even know, and I wanted to pass on that Peace to you. I know you have a strong faith- your Father will be there with you through this and you will get through this. I wanted to also share that you and Payton have touched my life. You may wonder the purpose of her short life, but I can tell you she has probably touched more people than many do in 80 years. I know because of the love you have for her, you will be able to minister more effectively about the love of Jesus to others. My prayers continue to be with you.
Mourning and rejoicing with you, Aaron and Heather. We're so sorry and so glad that your little Payton is with Jesus. Much, much love...
Jason & Erika Gibson
Stayed up all nite last nite reading your whole blog and looking at the video. Tonite I am doing the same. Just can't believe she is gone. This is not how I wanted it to end. But we know God's way is the BEST way.
My heart aches. Hasn't helped my face either. Was getting ready for work, crying, and checking the blog all at the same time today.
When I looked in the mirror my one eye was really swollen. I thought, man that looks so bad. Went to work, got home and was washing my face. Here I had one eye all done with liner and mascara, and had totally forgot to do the other one.:) Thankx, Payton.:)
I know for a fact little Payton will be in charge of reading to all the babies that come after her.
You have to be the most caring, wonderful mom around. Ila, you can be so proud!!!!!!!!!!!!
Back to the Blog.
Love you tonz,
phyllis
p.s.
Thankx again for letting us love, laugh, and grieve with you and your family.
Mourning and rejoicing...my heart has been doing both today. I have been picturing the special spot that the Lord had prepared for little Payton. She must be so happy being able to gaze into her creator's eyes! I think of how the "magical" warm blanket would bring her peace and I imagine that peace multiplied by thousands! I know your arms must feel so empty but how wonderful to know that she is in our Savior's arms!
I cherish the moments I was able to spend with you both and Payton. My life is better for having known you all. Thank you for being such a witness to Christ's love for all of those around you. You have impacted MB5-B/G more than you may know.
I continue to Pray for you that you may feel peace and comfort. Please let us know the service arrangements.
With Love and Prayers,
Anita Wattier
John and I are so deeply sorry for the pain and loss that you are going through. We were reminiscing about the few minutes we got to gaze at her beautiful face during the reunion, and can only imagine the joy that she is experiencing with her new body in Heaven right now. I have passed on this website to all of my friends, family, co-workers and church prayer team, so please know that you have hundreds of people praying for you and mourning with you at this very moment. We love you so much, and wrap our arms around you all the way from Colorado. Please let me know if there is anything that we can do.
Lyndsey
We looked at the pictures taken of the three of you, and can now see what a special gift those photo's will bring to you during your lifetime.
I'm mourning and rejoicing with you. Your beautiful little Payton has touched so many people around the world through your blogs. May you find comfort and peace in knowing she is with Jesus.
With Love in Christ, Stacey
thinking and praying for you to have strength and joy in your sorrows.
Aaron and Heather,
I don't know you personally, but my cousin, Kari Termont, has been updating my family on your family's progress every once in a while.
I didn't get to read everything while you were going through such a rough patch (I kinda forgot...), but I was praying for you--all three of you--through this trail.
In a way, your past few months sound like mine: my neighbor's in the hospital because of cancer and could go Home soon. I've been praying for him to get better, but I know that if God takes him Home, I'll be alright. After all, God knows how much we can handle. He wouldn't put us through something if He didn't know if we could handle it.
Payton's story is also kind of like my own: I was three months premature and in the hospital for the first few months of my life. I don't remember it, of course, but my parents tell me about it sometimes, and it's amazing, knowing that God would put them through a tough situation like that, where their baby girl could have died. I'm sure He was preparing them for what could have happened, but didn't make them go through any more pain and let me live.
So, your situation definitely hit me, and as I read your blogs today, I learned about how blessed you were to have Payton, even for a short time, and I know that God will continue to comfort you.
Remember, you'll see Payton again someday, and that reunion will be awesome--I know it.
Still praying for God to keep you in His loving grip,
Rebecca L.
Aaron and Heather, We are deeply saddened with the earthly death of Payton. No doubt many tears were shed across the region yesterday as we were confronted with the news. We love you, we're praying for you, we're with you.
In Christ,
Derrick & Julie
I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. I have been praying for Payton and your family from updates from the Hunts. I will continue to lift you all up in prayer.
Liz
God has used you both and Payton SO beautifully to bring glory to Him and your testimony and faith during this time has inspired and encouraged us all. I love you guys and I'm praying for you!
Lauren Winter
Payton's story and your faith has been an inspiring gift to all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Minnick and Jones families.
Bud and M.T. Meadows (Grandma Ila's friend)
Heather and Aaron,
We are sooo sorry for your loss and we are upholding you in our prayers during this time. Thank-you for encouraging us with your amazing outlook through all of this. You are truly amazing people in your faith! I have a hard time not weeping each time I think of you guys, I can't imagine how you must feel but aren't you glad there's One who offers peace like no other?? I pray He wraps you up in his peace and everlasting love. At the same time we rejoice with Payton because she is in the presence of the Almighty God!! How awesome it must be! God bless you during this time!
Love,
Lisa Williams-Mai and family
Aaron and Heather,
Our hearts go out to you over the loss of your beautiful little girl. May the Lord our God be your comforter and sustainer through this difficult time and may you know that you are not alone. It has been a blessing to stand beside you and lift your family before the Lord. We have been awed and inspired by your steadfast faith in Jesus and trust that He will continue to reveal His faithfulness to you as you seek the peace and comfort only He can give. As I prayed for you and shared in your grief yesterday, God continually laid a song by Watermark on my heart. Some of the lyrics are below. May they remind you to rejoice over Payton’s reunion with her maker and savior.
Glory Baby
We miss you everyday, miss you in every way
But we know there's a day when we will hold you, we will hold you
And you'll kiss our tears away, when we're home to stay
We can't wait for the day when we will see you, we will see you
But baby let sweet Jesus hold you, until mom and dad can hold you
You'll just have heaven before we do
Sweet little baby, it's hard to understand it
Cause we are hurting, we are hurting
But there is healing, and we know we're stronger people
Through the growing, and in knowing
All things work together for our good
And God works his purposes
Just like he said he would, just like he said he would
I can't imagine Heaven's lullabies
And what they must sound like
But I will rest in knowing
Heaven is your home
And it's all you'll ever know, all you'll ever know
We’ll be glad to have you back in EC to be able to walk this road alongside you.
Much love,
Heath and Hen Tachick
Aaron and Heather & family--
I got to work yesterday about 11:00 am hoping for the best. I was saddened to see that Payton had passed on...I was hoping to catch you before you left. I just wanted to let you know that it was a privilege to have been a part of your lives for these past couple of months since you've been here. It was a treat to watch you interact with Payton and listen to you read the Little House books to her. It is a challenge to remember that there is a living person under all those tubes and wires, and the love you gave to Payton during these last couple of months helped her immensely, I'm sure.
The mood here in the ICU was rather somber. We keenly feel your loss and grieve with you. A number of us nurses went in to say goodbye to Payton, stroke her hair one last time, and shed some tears.
As life returns to normal around here on the unit, we still remember Payton and you as "fighting the good fight" and hanging in till the end. As you said, there is that hollow ache and empty space in our hearts, but we too, are comforted knowing that she is in a better place and at peace...
Jason, RN-(just one of the many icu nurses that cared for Payton)
My heart aches for you guys. I can't say anything that others haven't said already, but I wanted to post and let you know that I am praying. I actually just got home from a memorial service for my 3 pregnancy losses when I read your "Home" post. Payton will have many playmates in Heavan! It is hard to understand why God says no to our prayers sometimes, but He always allows us to keep the memories! It is natural that life continues to move forward (especially for others) even when we feel like we are standing still. Your daughter has an amazing legacy as evidenced in this blog! Hold onto that and continue sharing her with us so we do too!
Sorry, I forgot to sign!
Tara Odegard
Aaron and Heather,
Yesterday I had no idea on what to write to you. Then last night out of the blue Olivia came upstairs with something that she was not suspose to have and here she handed me Connors program from his funeral. I read it and then relized that this is what I am suspose to write to you. It is the poem that I read over and over after we lost Connor.
It's called "When I Must Leave You"
When I must leave you for a little while, Please do not grieve and shed wild tears And hug your sorrow to you through the years, But start out bravely with a gallant smile; And for my sake and in my name Live on and do all things the same, Feed not your loneliness on empty days, But fill each waking hour in useful ways, reach out your hand in comfort and in cheer and I in turn will comfort you and hold you near; And never, never be afraid to die, for I am waiting for you in the sky.
With much Love and Prayers, Josh, Tammi & Olivia
I don't know either of you, but I got an e-mail about Payton through someone. I'm encouraged by your strength and the peace God has given you. Be blessed and thank you for being a blessing to so many.
Ryan Schiavo
Aaron and Heather,
Payton and your family has touched my in so many ways. I will be parying for you always.
Aaron and Heather, I want you to know that my heart goes out to you and your family during this time of grieving. Payton was and always will be a beautiful little girl. She always made me smile when I came to work and saw her smiling face. I pray that the lord will hold you in his arms and keep you up lifted in these sad times and that he will give you peace.
Tenesha
I have no words to say, except I'm so sorry for your gigantic loss. I'll email you later, and maybe we can talk through some of this grief stuff. It's been 5 months now for us, so we're with you in the process. Many prayers for you,
Janet Richards
heather and Aaron, I wanted to tell you that ever since our reunion I have been praying for you guys. I am so sorry to hear about payton. There are no words to express the loss of a BEAUTIFUL child but, she is in heaven SMILING at her Lord. Someday she will be reunited with her mommy and daddy. I will continue to pray for comfort. Just remember God has the big picture that we cannot see. He knows best even when we don't.
Also, your picture slideshow is a very sweet memeory.
In Christ, Stacey Mincemoyer
I am so sorry for your loss. The love of the Lord you both have in your hearts is wonderful and you know you will be with her in the future....
I am someone you have never met..but I read about you in another open diary friends diary and was so moved..so touched by your story. I prayed for you all and will continue to do so.
I am so sorry for your loss..but I praise the Lord for your faith and the fact that you KNOW without a doubt she will be in your arms someday.
In his Love,
Lucinda
We are friends of Tim and Casey Spark's and we've been praying for you. I was so blessed to read your blog and sense the strength you have in God. It is the only way to make it through those times. I pray that you will continue to feel his strength as you move through various adjustments. You are certainly a light for Jesus and thank you for that! Prayerfully, Laura and Gerald
I feel your pain, we had a daughter
born with a hole in her heart but God had other plans for her life. We had to completely give her over to God every time,that was very hard,when she was sick. The only thing that got us through it was our faith and trust in God. We knew he was in control of all our life and knew the best for us even if we didnt understand it we just had to believe. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
In Christ Love, Ray and Willa Mincemoyer
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