I have never done anything like this before but we need all the prayers we can get.

You see, my 24-year old son (my only child) has just been diagnosed with a serious genetic problem called Marfan Syndrome which causes the aorta to enlarge and-if left untreated-rupture.

This is a hereditary condition as it killed his father (my late husband) and his grandmother. I was there when - over a period of a few years - his father had to undergo multiple surgeries to try to correct the problem but, sadly, he died suddenly on a beautiful Sunday afternoon while we were out playing golf. At that time, my son was only 10.

Needless to say, I am horrified that my son is stricken with this horrible condition and will - within the next few weeks - have to undergo major surgery.

We are Christian people of deep faith who love the Lord but we have both already been through so much that it's hard to continue to be brave.

It's hard to understand why our family seems to be forced to endure so much heartache and heartbreak. My son has a heart of gold and a sweet generous loving nature. The world truly is a better place with him in it.

Please pray for my son's full recovery and for both of us to have the strength to get through this. Please pray that God will send his angels to comfort both of us and to ease our fears as we approach the dark days that are sure to come.

Thank you very much.

Submitted Wed Jul 16 06:01:54 +0000 2008

1. Illness
2. surgery