Jimmy Sparks Speaks

OUR STORY

On May 14, 2021 James and I were excited to learn that Jacey was going to be a big sister! Shortly after on June 7th, our world was turned upside down as the doctor told us that our sweet baby had anencephaly, a terminal diagnosis. With many options presented, we decided to continue with the pregnancy as long as we could and trust God with the rest.

As news of our diagnosis spread, we learned of an organization called Abel Speaks. Abel Speaks supports parents who have chosen to carry a child with a life-limiting diagnosis, and support they did. James and I were immediately welcomed into a club that no parent wishes to join, but found peace and comfort through the community of people who had walked this road before us. They connected us with mentors, checked in and prayed with us, provided us with resources, and most of all, they said our baby’s name, Jimmy.

Abel Speaks helped to remind us that God doesn’t make mistakes and that every child’s life can be beautiful and meaningful, no matter the length.

We were told from the beginning we could terminate the pregnancy and try again. We were told to save ourselves the heartache. We were told that the chances of a miscarriage were high. But we carried anyway, and we are so grateful that we did. Jimmy was born at 39 weeks and lived for 13 beautiful hours. He changed our lives forever. Jimmy was real and he lived, and we are so blessed because of it.

Sometimes grief and joy can be so deeply intertwined that it’s hard to navigate, but God is always good, and Jimmy still speaks.

SINCE THEN

Abel Speaks gave us a way to share and honor our son’s life. It has allowed us to turn what was meant to hurt and isolate us, into a beautiful story of God’s love and greater plan. The support we received during our pregnancy with Jimmy, and even now almost two years later, has helped us as a family to grieve, process, and heal.

When the world seems to move on, Abel Speaks helps keep Jimmy’s memory alive. It can be lonely when you face the giants of life, but we are so grateful for the community we’ve found in Abel Speaks.

On September 21st, we would love to invite you to join us for the annual fundraising event, Grow: An Evening with Abel Speaks. Your generosity will help raise money to support families like ours who receive a terminal diagnosis for their baby and decide to carry. Please consider joining Team Sparks, as we aim to raise a goal of $7,500 for this impactful ministry that is near and dear to our hearts.

-James & Alyssa