This Stewart Family photo was taken August 2007.Some of you have asked "Who is Larissa?" She is the young mom who received Cameron's kidney.
Larissa belongs to the same congregation as Cameron and Collins. Her kidneys were in complete failure and she was facing dialysis. You can imagine what this would be for a young mom. None of her family was a match. Cam and Collins had a strong sense when praying for Larissa's healing, that perhaps Cameron would be a match. The thoughts persisted.
Soon Cameron began the process of health evaluation and matching procedures. This took a great deal of time. During this period, Cam and Collins began to prepare for the eventuality that their inspiration would prove accurate. Cameron and her wonderful business partner Tracy, run three preschool classes in a school room in Cameron's home. Provisions needed to be made for Cameron's absence from administration duties and teaching. More importantly, the needs of their own four children still at home had to be addressed. Every thing kept falling into place regarding those concerns and each new concern that arose. Once it was determined that Cameron and Larissa were a perfect match, things moved very quickly. This is why so few in the family knew about it ahead of time. Those in the immediate family were dealing with things in very short order. Cameron says there are many others who she believes would have done the same thing. She was just THE one who do it because of the miracle of the match.
As a mom myself and knowing what it is to raise a family, I had concerns about Cameron putting herself in this position. I expressed that but we fall back on the truth that Heavenly Father hears and answers prayers don't we? I grew to have confidence in the decision that Cam and Collins made. God often doesn't answer our prayers in the way we expect and in this case, the answers came so out of the realm of my thinking! It has been tough to miss being there with Cameron at this time but again God provided..
Collins is the 2nd of nine children in his family. His mom is a remarkable woman. She has worked for years and years in the cub scout and scouting program and is a calming and loving influence. The Stewart children and Cameron are well watched over while Collins works. AND the kids love her activity and fun.
Cam and Collins' congregational family is really stepping in with assistance for both of these young women. Meals have been provided and cleaning crews have come in to do whatever they can. Cam and Collins also have great relationships with their neighbors in their little cul-de-sac. They too are involved. Tracy and another teacher they have hired are managing the school while Cameron recovers. There are many who have given what they have to make this beautiful miracle possible. We are the hands of heaven aren't we all? AND now two moms are able to fully care for their children!
Isaac is our little one with some real challenges. He has some disabilities that have been hard to diagnose. There are signs of Aspergers and it seems that this most fits the bill but then again there are ways that it does not fit. He is a brilliant boy, and Cam and Collins have had their hands full dealing with his realities. Interestingly he is very loving and yet during his difficult moments, is a challenge beyond anything else I have experienced. There are times when fear and frustration are just overwhelming to him. This is always true for this child, not something new to this particular stress. Your prayers in his behalf are greatly appreciated.
Isaac's wit is a true joy. We have many fun family stories. Once when they were visiting, he and Grandpa walked the mile to church to help him expend some energy and have a more positive worship experience. It was a perfectly beautiful summer day. As they approached the church doors, it began to hail heavily. As they ran for the doors, Isaac stopped up short and exclaimed, "Oh my heck! What is that white stuff?" He plays a very special part in our family and is deeply loved and appreciated for the perspectives he brings. He is five and doing well in his school with special aide assistance to watch over and keep him safe. With his skills as an escape artist and he can be in serious trouble very quickly for one so vulnerable.
Tristan (Collins son from former marriage) is in college, Jonah is fifteen, Gideon eight, Isaac five and Felicity (alllllllll girl) is three. This is one dear family!
