True Joy Healing & Restoration- Kortney's Story

TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL

September 3, 1993, I can remember holding another bundle of joy in my arms and thanking God for blessing us with our third child, Kortney Marie. As Kortney began to grow, I noticed at 6-7 months old she was not developing as my other babies at her age, and thought, “oh she’s just a little slower and in time she’ll catch up”. Well, at 9 months old Kortney was still not sitting and would only fall over when trying to sit her up. I became increasingly concerned. Her doctor began to monitor her growth more closely. At 12 months old Kortney showed no signs of crawling, walking, or pulling up. After consulting with her doctor, he agreed it was time to refer her to a neurologist for further testing. After seeing many doctors and going through test after test, it was discovered Kortney had abnormalities of the brain which explained her developmental delays. The doctors could not tell us whether Kortney would ever walk, talk or what her future would hold.

Through this experience, we’ve learned to accept what God allows even when we don’t understand why. In doing so, we’ve realized the hand life deals you, is the one God has already prepared you for. After being angry and having many conversations with the Lord, asking, why me, why my child, a still small voice replied, “it’s going to be alright” immediately a peace came over me. From that day to this, I’m a witness that God is a divine keeper according to Philippians 4:7; and the peace of God that passes all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Kortney is now 16 years old and has severe developmental delays which require much care from her family, and the wonderful staff at John Archer where she attends school everyday. Kortney communicates by sounds, signing, pictures, gestures, and demands dinner not long after 5 p.m. (chuckle). Although things can be quite challenging at times, our family has been successful in providing for Kortney’s needs by working together. How we cope can be summed up in four words: “work as a team”. On a typical day, dad has wake-up, breakfast, and getting her to the bus - but never hair, as he is quick to say "I'm not the hair guy". I must mention my wonderful mother (Sharron Coates) who is known and loved by us all as “Granny”. She’s been on this journey with us from the beginning and cares for Kortney if though she were her own. Not to mention the True Joy Family who loves Kortney and helps assist us during Sunday worship, as well as other service times.

The reason for sharing Kortney’s story is to let you know; our family, as well as the members of True Joy are sensitive to individuals with special needs. One of our ministry visions and goals is to have a Special Needs Care Ministry with a qualified staff to care for those with disabilities while their family members enjoy the worship service.

In closing, although Kortney is silent in speech, she speaks to all with her gentle smile and vivacious presence as to say, "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made" Psalm 139:14. It cannot be denied, God has given us an Angel that has touched our lives forever. As Kortney continues to inspire us all, she’s taught us life with special needs doesn’t limit us from achieving whatever goals we set. To our family, she is simply “Lil’ Mama” with a big heart and a big appetite.