Friday, June 20, 2008

Hands shaking

Its hard to type my hands are shaking so bad. Cate is still on the machine and we didn't even get a base hit today. The valve that brings blood back to Cate's heart is now leaking and her right lung has fluid in it. Its three steps back for sure and a kick to the gut, hard. The fact that Cate's lung has fluid in it takes her off the transplant list all together. Dr. Salazar said that everyone is telling him to not give up on her, he is not, they are not, and we are not either. He believes that Cate will tell us what she is going to do in the next few days, either she is going to come off the machine, or she won't. Ali and I were talking after the meeting and we feel like we now know what Mary must of felt like sitting at the foot of the cross. I now know what it feels like to be completely abandoned to, not by, but to God. We are not at the end of our rope, we can't even see the rope. We are remaining in Hope, we believe in our Girl and we believe in our God, and we know that no matter what we will stand as a family. Continue to pray...

119 comments:

Anonymous said...

My heart aches for you, my prayers are with you. Stay strong, God is here. I hope against hope and in faith that she will be healed. May God be with you and bless you.

In Our Saviour,
Nick Noe

Anonymous said...

Charlie & Ali- Not an hour has passed since last Friday that your family and Cate have not been on my mind, in my heart, and in my prayers. We will continue to walk with you during this excruciating journey. All of our prayers and offerings are going for y'all. Keep us posted and stay strong in Him! He's not done with Cate yet!

Love in Christ,
Jenn, Joey, Gabe, & Isabella Routh

Anonymous said...

Your precious family is in our every thought and prayer. We are believing and hoping with you. We pray that Mary will hold you and comfort you during this time.

Love you guys.

Anonymous said...

there are just no words...we are falling to our knees

the bermans

Anonymous said...

know that i am going now to the Cathedral very full......loving you all and will not stop praying for all of you.....2:00pm.....
ms. connie c

Anonymous said...

My heart hurts for you. I am so sorry that you are experiencing this. We will continue to pray and we will pray for you tonight at a women's prayer night at Mary Queen. Praying constantly...
Betsy, Trey, and Fenton

Anonymous said...

We will pray that much harder for we are too stubborn to give up. Y'all are constantly in my prayers and thoughts throughout the day and night. We will surely shake heaven with our prayers today.

Much love and many many prayers,
Christie Noel

SavorTheSong said...

Praying long, Praying hard.

Blessed Fr. Seelos, pray for Cate.
Immaculate Heart of Mother Mary, pray for Cate.

In Jesus' Name, our Redeemer, our Savior, our Friend.

The Black-Celis Family

Anonymous said...

Charlie & Ali,

We have been with you guys since day one. Our prayers are even stronger today. We are hoping, believing and praying with you. We love you so much.

Love,
Lanie, Fred & Evan John

Anonymous said...

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your precious family.
Your friends from ICU, Neal and Shirley (Hudson's Mimi and Pop)
Please give and extra hug to Cheryl from me.

Anonymous said...

Dear Charlie,
Please know of our relentless prayers for you and your family. We will continue to knock, seek, and wait for His miracles!

I am writing to you today to let you know that an account has been set up in Cate's name to help with the continued medical bills for her care. I know that you never expected Cate to be in the hospital this long, and with the future being so unclear there are many that want you to have some ease financially so that you can focus on Cate, Ali, Ella, and Dude, and not have to worry as much about the bills and those decisions. I know it is a difficult thing to face, but please receive it from all those who are willing and desiring to give. Also, please post this information to your blog so we can get the word out about the account. I know that is a hard thing Charlie, but who are you to stop people from giving really to the Lord and helping in this way? Just go ahead and move out of the way and receive His blessings!!! :) (that's what you would tell someone else in your same position!) We all love you and I know there is a whole world of supporters out there that love you, are praying for you and could be very open to supporting you and helping out in this way. God will bless all in their generosity through His faithfulness! Please, please post this Charlie.

Account Name:: Catherine Cantrell
Account Bank:: CHASE Bank*
Account #:: 291-055-2567
*It may be necessary to indicate that the account was setup in TX when donating online

Thanks Charlie, and if anyone has any questions about donations, let them know they can contact me at:
maureen@adoreworship or 504.813.9517

Love and blessings from all your friends in Christ.

Anonymous said...

Charlie & Ali,
I just found out about Baby Cate yesterday through Lanie (Fred's Wife). I attended Little Flower with Fred & High School w/Lanie. I read your all of your Blogs from beginning to end yesterday. My Prayers are with you right now & have been since yesterday. I reposted a Pray For Baby Cate Bulletin yesterday & today, trust me ya'll can go ahead & add quite a bit more people to your Prayer Family right now.
God Bless,
Christie Frederick Hollier

Anonymous said...

Praying and with you in Hope,

kate

ennie said...

we are still here.
broken up, desperately crying out to God with you.

Anonymous said...

Charlie & Ali,
You do not know me. I live across the street from your cousin, Lesley. Unfortunately, we walked in your shoes last year. I know what a difficult thing this is for you and your family, and I have tears in my eyes every day when I read your messages. You are all in my prayers every day. I know that no words will give you comfort right now. Just know that God is with you every step of the way. He gave me strength I never knew I could have. We live here in Houston so if you or your family ever need anything from us, please let Lesley know.

Love in Christ,
Bryan & Christi Ticknor

Anonymous said...

Praying harder than I ever thought possible---You are in my constant thoughts and prayers
Marin

Bartas in Texas said...

We are struggling through this with you, holding on to everything He is offering....Hope is alive.
jeremy & courtney

Anonymous said...

We are on our knees face down at the feet of God asking for him to heal Cate and to give you and Ali peace. We love you all. Prayers and Blessings,
Chris and Denise Perry

Anonymous said...

A million different emotions are rising in me and I'm minute compared to the role you guys are playing. We are with you and God.... WE ARE STILL AWAKE AND NOT GOING AWAY DAMN IT!!!!!

The Orillions

Anonymous said...

My 'God Calling' today.......Wait to hear My Will and then obey. At all costs obey. Do not fear. I am a wall of protection around you. To see this with the eyes of faith is to cause it to manifest in the material.
Remember I long to work miracles, as when on Earth I wrought them, but the same condition holds good. I cannot do many mighty works because of unbelief.
So only in response to your belief can I do miracles now.

My heart goes out to you and Ali as you exist in this bubble of suspens e and apprehension. I want to imagine holding both of you and being a shoulder to you. I love you. I am praying. I will offer up my prayers for Cate at the pre-Steubenville Praise Rally this Sunday. Lois G.

Anonymous said...

Know that our prayers have not ceased, nor will they. Cate is on our hearts constantly!
love,
Steph and Pete Greenfield

Anonymous said...

Maureen,

Thank you for making public the account information. We have been passing it around in Rayne not wanting to offend anyone. But you are certainly right--Charlie be humble and get out of the way--it is are turn to give!!!

Rebecca Orillion

Anonymous said...

Dear Charlie,Ali and precious Baby Cate,
We and the whole Lifeteen Covecrest Family are lifting you up in prayer. My thoughts and prayers have been with you constantly. You are in our hearts.
Still on our knees,
The Benzingers

Anonymous said...

our hearts and our prayers are with you constantly. you are loved. with much hope, the reinhardts

Anonymous said...

In tears begging God to pour down his blessings and healing powers upon Cate and reward your incredible faith. I will not give up either!
Cheree

Anonymous said...

Our Precious Merciful Lord, please be with Cate and her doctors right now. We believe in Your mighty healing hands, sweet Lord. We want Your will to be done. Please place Your loving, healing hands on Cate's heart and body. Pour Your grace and comfort upon Charlie and Ali in this moment of pain, confusion, and anxiety. We trust in You, Lord! We know You are an On-Time God...allow us to know and accept Your will. Please reveal Your kind lesson and message in all of this to Charlie and Ali. Hear our prayers, Lord. Show us your presence. Show us how You want us to pray in this situation. We give You glory even in the struggles. Praise You, Lord! Thank You for the amazing blessing of Cate to our world! Amen.

Anonymous said...

We are here and not going anywhere....you have been a constant prayer since last Friday....
Love you guys....
kristi and eric

Anonymous said...

Charlie, Alie, and Baby Cate stay strong god will come and help. We love yall so much and will not stop praying.

Jenny Menard and Family

Lori, Willie, Anna said...

Charlie, Ali, Cate & family-you have been on my mind constantly since I started reading the blog Tuesday. I continue to share your site with co-workers and friends so we can all lift you up to God the Father. My heart is aching for you right now and my prayer for you is for strength and courage. May the Lord guide you in all you do.

Continued prayers,
Lori T in St Louis

Anonymous said...

Tears - and endless prayers.
Love,
Jenn and Wade Swanson

Anonymous said...

I have never stopped praying..and I never will. My heart is aching for you...Cate is so strong. I bet you never thought you would admire someone so tiny...we didn't either until we were where you are. Ali, I am here for you, my phone is right next to me. You call, I will drop everything. I promise. And Charlie, my husband, Jeremy, will be here if you need someone to vent to as well. We understand you and Ali....and we will be here for you both day or night. Hang onto God and to each other. We love you guys...Stephanie Johnson

Pat Broussard said...

It's a long rope of Faith, Hope and Love. Hold on to it even when you don't think you have any strength left.

We are here to lift you up.

Bree at Clarity Defined said...

I haven't been posting, but my prayers have been and will continue to be with you and Cate.

Anonymous said...

Charlie and Ali,

We love you guys so much and we are constanly praying for all of you.

Love,
The Fruges and Coltons

Anonymous said...

MORE INFO ON THE BABY CATE FUND::

You can go to ANY bank and have funds wired to the CHASE account. You will need to let your bank know that funds need to be wired to:

Bank: Chase Bank
Bank Routing Number: 111000614
Account Name: Catherine Cantrell
Account Number: 2910552567

If you currently bank with chase you can walk in to any Chase Bank and fill out a deposit slip with their account name and number and it will be deposited on the spot. Or you can do it online at www.chase.com

Thank you!! Please contact me with any questions or call chase bank at: 1-888-MYCHASE

~*maureen
504.813.9517
maureen@adoreworship.com

Unknown said...

Heavy-hearted yet hopeful... We are continuously interceding for Cate and all of you.

Anonymous said...

Charlie, I've been going back on your blog to read start from Cate's journey again, just to see what it has all been like. Even your words from 7 months ago are amazing, and I wanted to show you the things that God was already revealing to you the night before you took Baby Cate home:

"If you will humor me, I want to share with you all something that I felt God put, said, placed, however you want to say it on my heart as I sat in Mass yesterday. The Gospel reading spoke of not worrying about the future and what is to come. The priest began his homily by saying, "If you want to make God laugh, tell Him your plans." He proceed to go on to tell the congregation that we, as human beings, spend so much of our time worrying about the "future", our next vacation, our children's college funds, our retirement and that we so often lose sight of the moment. The moment, is what God is so present in, the moment that is right now, because truly that moment is what we have. As I reflected on Baby Cate's short life, that began not even two weeks ago, I think of all the scenerios that have run through my head, and how I am already planning for her first, second, and third heart surgeries, when she is not even home yet. We have not even begun to experience life with her here, in our own home. I was reminded so gently, to slow down, enjoy the moments that we are having with her, whether it is just her and I in the quiet morning NICU snuggled face to face or just sitting beside her and Ali, as she cuddles close to her mother as she nurses. These are the moments that past, unbenouced, unfiltered, yet unforgetable. Its in these times, that I am not worrying about her college fund or how we will pay for heart surgeries, its the other twenty-two hours a day that I need to bring my heart back to the fact that we are under the watchful eye of our God, who loves us emencly and knows our every move, thought, concern, and fear. The communion hymn in Mass yesterday, "Be Not Afraid," the refrain is, "Be not afraid, I go before you always, come follow me, and I will give you rest." As I heard these sweet prophetic words I was brought back to the day Baby Cate was born and the words that God spoke to my heart, "Do not be Afraid." It was an affirmation, or more of a reminder, that He has Baby Cate in His hands and that He knows that plans that he has made for her, and that we, Ali and I, must not worry about the future, but enjoy every moment that we have with her, our other two beautiful children, and each other. With that being said, on the eve of our little girl coming home, we begin a new journey, a one of embracing each day, not in fear, but in the peace of knowing that our loving God is with us, in our family, and with us in the community He has blessed us with in all of you. Our other two holigans are very exicted to meet there new little sister, and we are excited to bring her home, home to a family that is ready, as much as we can be today, to embrace this journey, and home to a community that has been lifting her up to the throne room of God."

-Charlie Cantrell (Monday, November 19, 2007)

God Bless, and our prayers are with you.

Patrick said...

Charlie and Ali: I don't think we've met but I'm an FUS grad (97 MA theology). I got your story via Mark Shea.

As soon as I looked at the pic of angelic Cate, I was very moved. To tears. We went through a great baby-related trial in 2006 with our daughter Naomi, and I want you to know you're not walking through this alone. We are praying that you receive consoling signs of God's presence with you, although -- I know well -- the words God and consolation may feel light years apart right now.

Nothing more to say, except that I offer up my aching heart for your intentions.


Patrick Coffin and family, Los Angeles

Darcy said...

My heart is heavy but my hope is not gone! We will pray and stay with you all through this!
God bless,
Morgan and Darcy

Cinco Owens said...

Cantrell Family, I may never know you, but your daughter has consumed my thoughts and prayers since Terri told me about her. I pray today for even more strength and solice as you hold on tight to the Lord. "Commit to the Lord your way; trust in Him and He will act” Psalm 37:5...Jesus I trust in You! May our Savior drench you in His Mercy and may His healing rays pour down on Baby Cate. YSIC, Melanie

Anonymous said...

LET'S FAST PEOPLE!!!!
God spared cities who not only prayed but FASTED as well. Give up something if you can't do a traditional fast. As a nursing mom, my chubby child surely doesn't need all of the sweets I like to eat. Let's rock Heaven just a little bit more!!! Make personal to you and your family--I know He has a plan.

For Cate,

Rebecca Orillion

Lila Lambert said...

The Lord is with us like a mighty champion while we turn to Him with confidence and love...Beyond the depths of numb despair, with hope our greatest surge proceeding, I call to you, great God, to hear our urgent pleading; For you alone can hear and heed the utter starkness of Cate's need, no other power can save what you her Creator has made...

For such a great sovreign One we wait with expectation: our souls in quie hope abides and trusts Your declaration. Far more that those who watch by night and long to see Your morning light, our souls seeks our Cate's helaing with yearning... Taken from the hymn Out of the Depths I Cry to You it truly spoke to my heart on behalf of Cate and your family..Lila

MamaJen said...

Don't give up! Miracles DO happen!

7 years ago my husband had a massive cerebral hemorrhage (ask someone there in the hospital what they think do if a man came in with over 40CCs of blood on his brain). To this day the doctors can't tell us why he lived, let alone why he has only a few minor affects from his stroke. It is truly a miracle that he is with us today, and fully functioning.

I tell you this to give you hope. The medical community doesn't always know everything, and sometimes things seem hopeless just when God is doing His greatest work.

God be with you and your precious girl. You are in our prayers.

Claire said...

I'm refuse to give up on God or on Cate. Praying my heart out every second of the day.
Love yall.
Claire

Anonymous said...

We are storming heaven with everything that we have. Gods getting some serious cajun prayers...May He bring peace and healing.

Brent, Elizabeth, Claire, Mia Coleman

douetteacher said...

My heart goes out to you! Stay strong, God will provide. You have a ton of people praying for you and I know that all those prayers are knocking on His door. I continue to pray numerous times throughout the days.
God Bless!
Melissa W. Douet
Lafayette, LA

Megan Perkins said...

We're still praying and won't stop believing either! I am so sorry for this news ...

The Perkins

Fizz Fam said...

Heavenly Father,
I lift up Baby Cate to you, on behalf of all parents, in a sincere plea for her total restoration. Both she and her parents are your precious children of whom I know you love. Lord, please send your spirit of inexplicable comfort and peace through which this family can be overwhelmingly assured of your mighty hand at work this very moment. In the name of your son, Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen

Erin said...

I cannot stop thinking about you all - its consuming my day. Many prayers and thoughts your way.... YOU ARE BEING HELD by all of us....
-Erin

Anonymous said...

Charile, Ali and Cate- We are still here with you every minute, hearts full, but HOPEFUL. We are praying for you and spreading the word to everyone we know to life you all up in prayer. We will not leave you in this journey.
Kurt and Jen Davidson

Anonymous said...

Rebecca Orillion-thanks for the comment
For everyone else:
Please please prayerfully consider a tithe or donation of any kind...

give up your snowball money, sell lemonade with your kids on the street corner, have a $raiser at summer camp, bible school, church-whatever! Get creative! Every bit helps! We can support in prayer but we can do more than that.

How often do situations like this come up and we are left with tears in our eyes feeling completely helpless? Yes we can pray, but we have also been given this unique opportunity to rally up around this great family and ask the Lord for financial provision. Be a part of something great both in prayer and deed!!!

May the Lord bless you a thousand fold!!!


~*maureen
maureen@adoreworship.com

Unknown said...

Charlie and Ali,

Your Cate is a little trooper. I will pray even harder for you all.

Glenda Robichaux

Anonymous said...

You are forever in our prayers and in our hearts.

Love, Marsha, Brent, Addie & Hunter

Anonymous said...

I dont know what to say other than you are such amazing inspirations to me...I think about you and your family nonstop...today during a test I started to panic when I didnt know some answers and then I looked at the clock...10:45 and instantly thought about Cate and stopped to ask God to help her, it really eased my panic...I love you guys so much. I know Jennys on the way, she's such a great support system in any matter (which is why I chose her as my TriDelt little sister:) ) I know she will be there to help you guys with anything you need this weekend! Love Yall-Erin Dawson

Anonymous said...

Words can't express my heartfelt sympathies for you. We are not giving up on our prayers. We will especially pray that you feel the Lord embracing you in this trial. Our hope, our love, and our prayers are with you!

Mark, Kristen, Benjamin, and Maria Dunbar

Andrea said...

Many prayers for you all!

Anonymous said...

Charlie & Ali:

Just read your blog. Just know that people all over the USA are praying for you. My family is in Arkansas and we are lifting Cate up to our LORD and Savior JESUS CHRIST that she been totally healed. Her story has reached many hearts and we are praying for you. Keep faith, Jesus hears you.
He is holding Cate in His loving arms.

Suzanne said...

Praying for God's healing hand to cover Cate. Praying for your whole family.

Suzanne

Lesley said...

Like everyone that the two of you have touched and those that do not know you personally, but have heard of Cate, I think of you constantly. My heart aches for you, but your faith and devotion are inspiring. Love ya!

Anonymous said...

My heart is heavy and aches for you, but my prayers remain strong...stronger than ever!!! God is with you, we are behind you!
Love always,
Breyan

Tara said...

My heart is hurting so bad for you all right now but I am full of hope. I am praying and thinking about you every step of my day. I love you both so much and I am so moved by your grace filled faithfulness. Thank you for your continued witness. I wish I could just hug you guys. I love you.

Anonymous said...

I don't know y'all or baby cate but that precious little girl has definitely touched my heart. since I started to read the blogs this past weekend I can't get y'all off of my mind. My thoughts and prayers are with y'all in this trying time.

Amelie Breland

Maria said...

We will continue to pray fervently for Cate's healing and for strength and hope and peace for both of you.

Anonymous said...

Praying harder than ever. Thinking about you daily all day long.
-renee moroux

Anonymous said...

Hey bro,

We offered up a rosary for Cate here at work and she is on our prayer list. We pray for the people on our monthly prayer list every day at noon. You have all of Texas Right to Life behind yall. Love yall!

Donatto

Anonymous said...

my prayers are with you, you are all in our father's hands.
love to all,
Peggy (Ponchatoula)

Anonymous said...

I check this site constantly throughout the day for updates. Everytime I see that little face, I ask God to show Himself mighty in your behalf. You've got the state of LA and beyond praying for you.

Anonymous said...

We will continue to pray for you and beg Jesus and all the saints to comfort you and give strength to Baby Cate. We love and support you guys!

"You have to go through Good Friday to reach Easter Sunday"

Anonymous said...

We are offering up Mass for you and Baby Cate. Y'all are in our hearts and deepest prayers as well receive the Eucharist.
love you, the Latinos

volpecircus said...

Unceasing prayers are continuing for you this evening. Baby Cate is blessed to have you guys for parents. Your faith and hope are palpable through the words you type. May Our Lady wrap you in her mantle and give you her comfort.

Anonymous said...

I am still praying for Cate and all of your family.
Allyson

Anonymous said...

Our continued prayers for you & Ali's physical, mental and spiritual strength and Cate's healing. Ya'll have touched so many lives through your faith. Our prayers are stronger than ever for all of you.
Mike & Martha Marse

Anonymous said...

Charlie and Ali, - my whole family is thinking of you and praying for all of you.

love,
Marisa Blancas Rogers

Anonymous said...

My daughter goes to the same daycare as Cate, and we are both keeping her in our thoughts and prayers.

“I love the Lord because he hears my voice and my prayer for mercy. Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath.” Psalm 116:1-2



“And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for.” Luke 11:9a



“For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” Luke 11:10

May the Lord give you peace that passes all understanding,

Danyelle and Madison Lantier

Anonymous said...

O Lord, holy Father, creator of the universe, author of its laws, you can bring the dead back to life, and heal those who are sick. We pray for our sick Baby Cate, that she may feel your hand upon her, renewing her body and refreshing her soul. Show to her the affection in which you hold all your creatures.

Anonymous said...

We are keeping Cate and all of you in our prayers.
I know that Jesus and Mary are close to her. The times when Cate is in greatest need is the time that she is being held close to their hearts.
Christ is King,
Carole

Susan DeMerchant said...

Just letting you know that you are in our prayers and hearts forever!

May God comfort you now and Heal baby Cate!

The DeMerchants

Tracy C. said...

We are praying our family rosary for her tonight.

Anonymous said...

What an inspiration you both are. You are such wonderful parents and your children are very blessed. You make me want to better a better mother.
In Jesus' name I pray for you all-
Jill D

Anonymous said...

Charlie and Ali,

I just received an e-mail thinking it was a prayer request for someone that I might not know; I was shocked when I read on and saw your names. After reading your blog, I was in tears. We will be praying for you all from here in Louisiana. I will forward the e-mail and add you to our company's prayer line. My parents also send their thoughts and prayers.

Love,
Brian and Brandy Carriere Colley, Caitlin, and Chandler

Anonymous said...

Constantly praying for peace for your family and healing for baby Cate's little body. Just know that you have many many people that you don't even know who are doing the same. Your words of faith in this time have really touched me. Continue to be strong in the Lord!

God bless,
Missy Segura

Anonymous said...

we rise together and scream out to God on her behalf...on your behalf. Your requests are on all of our tongues, our hearts. We shall not abandon you. Oh how He is being glorified today! loving you all through this hour.

Anonymous said...

Words cannot express what our hearts feel for you right now but please be assured of our continued prayers. The Blessed Mother is so close to you right now gathering you into her mantle. May you and Cate feel her presence and find some comfort that she is pleading at the feet of Jesus for Cate's life. You are constantly on our hearts and minds! Miracles happen just continue to believe. all our love, jeff and tonya

Anonymous said...

Ali, Charlie and Baby Cate,

our daughter, Lily, has and will continue to pray the Angel of God prayer for Cate. She says that she is praying "for Cate's heart to become strong, and for her to get better."
God Bless,
Emily(Broussard), Anthony and Lily

Anonymous said...

We love y'all and we will not stop praying!
Lisa and Avrien

Anna said...

Charlie and Ali-
Brother, words fail us. May God Bless you and Keep your daughter safe in His Arms. You have constantly been in our prayers as a family.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam:
Mosh and Anna

Anonymous said...

Charlie and Ali -- I received this email from Joel Osteen ministry today and once I read today's title --"Don't Give Up" I knew I had to send it your way! Believe in miracles and healing, it does happen! Many continued prayers from friends in South Louisiana....

Today's word with Joel and Victoria Osteen

Don’t Give Up

Today's Scripture
“So let’s not get tired of what doing good what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up” (Galatians 6:9).

Today's Word from Joel and Victoria

Are you believing God for something? Is it taking longer than you thought or expected? No matter how long you may have been standing, don’t give up! Your season is coming. Your harvest of blessing is on its way. It might be today, it might be tomorrow, it might be next week, next month or next year, but remember, at the right time you will experience your breakthrough. Be encouraged today because God is faithful and His promises are true. Keep standing, keep hoping, keep believing. Keep doing good. Keep declaring the promises of God over your life. Choose to be around people who are going to encourage you and fill your heart and mind with God’s Word. Let a song of praise come out of your mouth. As you continue to press on in faith and keep an attitude of victory, you will see your harvest of blessing and live as an overcomer in every area of your life.

A Prayer for Today

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithfulness in my life. Fill me with Your strength to keep doing good and standing firm until I see my harvest of blessing. Thank You for Your peace in my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Anonymous said...

With Christ all things are possible. I am praying for this percious little girl and you all as her family. God knows what is best for her and it seems as though you have left it in His able hands. May God be with each one of you and especially with baby Cate during these next critical hourse. Maore than anything else I am praying that His will will be done and that all involved would give Hime the glory and honor either way. Best wishes.

~Your Sister in Christ

NET Ireland said...

I have no words, my heart breaks for you, but I too hope and pray!! God love yall!! Know that Our Lady is right there w/ you at the foot of the cross, prayying hard!!

Anonymous said...

I have never met you and only heard of you from acadianamoms. Your baby Cate is adorable! I have prayed so much for her. I have prayed that God guides you and your doctors every decision. There is no secret to healing just faith as a grain of mustard seed. Every prayer is heard. Prayer can change things. Prayer attracts God to your situation. Jesus shed his blood to heal. I am praying for baby Cate and her healing. I pray that God gives you light for the step you are on at this moment.
Im Jesus name!

Anonymous said...

still with you praying hard, crying and offering our mere and humble struggles for you and Cate
may God bless you and keep you and guide you always. love the muncy clan

Anonymous said...

Baby Cate's story has made it to Atlanta and the prayer warriors here are now engaged. Your family is being lifted in prayer by thousands more, all asking for Cate's healing and your peace. God bless you all and keep you strong.

Anonymous said...

You are all being held in our hearts and prayers. May God be with you all during these most agonizing hours.
Todd and Julie

Anonymous said...

our hearts and our prayers....

We are volunteering at the Eucharistic Congress tomorrow in Atlanta. You will have our prayers and those of as many as we can tell! Prayers through Mary's intercession!!

Nathan & Sara Boster

amandalou81 said...

Charlie, its been years since the old days of Youth for Life in Opelousas and Eunice and its been probably that long since we have spoken. Know that you and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers. I only found out about your plight today through facebook, so I've got months of prayer to catch up on. In the words of Fr. Vic Vead from the old Steubenville South days, "Wait! There's more!" Each day there are more and more prayers being offered up for your family and I am honored to be among those praying.

Much love and prayers.
Amanda Reviere

Anonymous said...

Still praying. May God be w/ you.
Sarah

Michelle Greene said...

Baby Cate is in my prayers tonight and going forward...God is such an awesome God!! If God is for us who can be against us! NO ONE In Jesus Name AMEN
Love in Christ,
Michelle Greene
In Virginia

Anonymous said...

We are here--still believing, still praying. love, the blakesleys
"But the Lord is with me, like a mighty champion." Jeremiah 20:11

Anonymous said...

I read your story and I found myself compelled to write,my son now 14 went through the same problems as your beautiful daughter,I understand how drained you are and how you feel that falling to your knees in prayer is your only sanity,I send you my Love,Hope and faith,for I do Believe in miricales.May God Bless you and Your family.The Lute family.

Teresa said...

Charlie and Ali,
We are continuing to pray for Cate and for you all. Our hearts are with you.
The Dallas Walthers

Anonymous said...

Charlie & Ali,
I continue to lift up Cate in prayer and ask Jesus to grant you two the strength needed at this time to carry on.

Anonymous said...

Peace be with you and your family. Sending much love, hope and prayer.

Blair said...

Yelling out from across the city of Houston...WE'RE PRAYING FOR CATE! I have 2 friends whose babies had surgeries w/ Dr Salazar this year (one for ToF). He seems like an amazing doctor and I will be praying for him and for you as well. May God be ever near to you. May Our Lady cover you in her mantle of peace...

Rachael said...

God is standing by your side in the midst of this storm!!!!!!!

Blair said...

Also adding that I'm begging for prayers tonight for Cate from a little girl in Heaven named Mary Clare. She was the daughter of a Catholic youth minister here in Houston and entered into the Heavenly kingdom exactly 2 years ago today. Little Mary Clare, pray for Cate!!!

Paola Flores said...

Dear Charlie & Ali,

Music is one of the ways that I'm able to pray and it really has helped me through tough times, I've been blessed with the blessed assurance of God's sovereignty through different songs at different times.

There's a song by Sandra McCracken called "Shelter," she wrote it for a friend whose child was dealing with health difficulties. Here are the lyrics and a link so you can actually listen to the song. You all are in my prayers. In His hands, Paola

*Link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lI30ax7n2k

*Lyrics:

In the arms of a good Father
You can go to the deep water
Where the questions, we have left unspoken
Come out in the open
We will find shelter here

So I lay down, what I cannot hold in my hands
Every sorrow and hope spinning out of control
And here I find sweet resolution comes in letting go
And we will find shelter here

When I look back I can see,
And when I am old I’ll remember these things
Like a mountain of stone
And the longing that makes me believe…

There is a tree by the blue river
Where the shade stretches wide over
In this breaking we are hand and glove
Come with me my love
We will find shelter here
We will find shelter here…

Anonymous said...

The sadness is overpowering.The precious love of God fall on your sweet little girl, and you both. I will light a candle for her every day... and of course Pray. :0) The Lord is near...
God Bless you, Terri Hamilton

Ed and Crystal Moody said...

Ali & Charlie - just thought I would let you know that after playing in water puddles, acting like monsters, going to the movies and eating popcorn (with Taco Bell after), Dude and Ella have been tucked into bed. Ella was precious for dinner because she turned down Taco Bell taquitos and requested a peanut butter sandwich, which she made by herself! Dude requested a bedtime story and the tag to his favorite blanket before he went to bed. Ella wants to leave you a message on the computer, but she said, and I quote, "I will figure it out in the morning." Such a little lady :) I will keep you posted just as you do for all of us. Well, good night and stay strong!
Love,
Ed and Crystal Moody

Anonymous said...

Charlie and Ali,

I am praying so hard for you and your family and will continue to do so during this very difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers always.

Love in Christ,
Denean

Anonymous said...

Charlie,

This is Nicky Nesbit (Becker) from college. I just want you to know that Jesus is in control and that your trust will be rewarded! We will pray for you unceasingly!

Nicky, Mark and Brett

AMDGomer said...

Everyone at Covecrest is praying for you, both high school and the junior high teens I had last week. You all are loved.

-Gomer

Anonymous said...

Our whole family is praying for Baby Cate and for your whole family. We know a bit what you are dealing with. Our son had a heart trasnsplant in December. He was put on ecmo and the first attempt to wean him did not work. He was finally weaned after 10 days. He had 3 more months in the PICU to recover but now he is doing great! We are praying for the same for Baby Cate!! God Bless you all!!

Anonymous said...

Charlie, Ali,
I've sent your prayer requests to Alexandria via Henry who is at Steubenville this weekend, where God's energy and love are so incredibly present. I heard your cry when you mentioned that you couldn't even see your rope. Be assured that I will praying my knotted rope until you tell me to stop, asking our Blessed Mother to embrace your family with her motherly love, so warm, tender, and comforting.

love-
Alison Trudell

Team Pisano said...

Your family is in my constant thoughts and prayers. We have faith and ask God to release Baby Cate's symptoms and let her body move into recovery and let the healing begin now.

God bless you all.

The Pisano's

The Author said...

Courageous Cantrells:
I have been trying to find more and more "hard" things in my comfortable life to offer up as little sacrifices for your family. Your faith family stands behind you.

Jesus, we trust in you.

Anonymous said...

My heart breaks for all of you. I have been praying for you and will continue to do so. I'm going to offer adoration tonight for little Cate and all of you. No matter what happens remember your little angel has brought so many people to prayer from all over the world and that is a miracle in its self. As I prayed the Rosary today while she was in surgery, my heart full and tearfull, I saw Mary standing in the middle of you, Ali and Cate and you were wrapped in her mantel. Our Mother is always with you. She is the reflection of the Son. Cling to her. The sorrowful mysteries just fit for you today. The Agony that I can't imagine that your going through. But remember that the Angels came and ministered to our Lord so are they minserting to you and surrounding baby Cate. You are being scouraged by the trials you have to endured. We always second guess ourselves and beat ourselves up for decisions we've made. Always could of, would of, should of. But God knows your heart. He knew all of you before you were born. He knows our shortcomings but He loves you as you are. You have been given his crown of thorns but there is a rose at the end of that stem. And you have been given a huge Cross to carry. But know that you are not alone. You're like Simon you didn't want to do this. You were forced to walk this raod. But you look at Jesus and you couldn't say NO. So you walk with him and carry that cross. He has so much love for you as he walks with you on this journey. We can't even imagine the Crucifixion. Nor can most of us imagine what your going through. But even in that darkest hour there was hope. They didn't understand what was going on. But they stayed together and prayed. Just as all of us are doing. We will unceasingly pray. We will continue to cry out to Jesus for all of you. Our eyes must stay focused on the Victory. The Resurrection brought life. We pray that God's mighty touch will heal her tiny heart and bring her new life. Having our Lord and Savior is the greatest Victory and you are deeply rooted in Him. You and your faith are an inspiration to many. No matter what happens hold on to that gift you have been given. And at the end of the day Jesus will say Well done my child well done. May God bless you all and bring you his peace.

In Jesus' name

Szarkowski Family said...

We are storming the gates of heaven for baby Cate. Last night I prayed over my 8 month old for your precious daughter. We are standing firm in hope!

Always
Dewey, Katie. and Sam Szarkowski

Unknown said...

Please accept my deepest condolences on your daughter, Cate's, passing.
May She Rest In Peace.

Melissa Lemieux
Boston, MA

Anonymous said...

Rest in Gods Garden Cate and watch over your family.

Gaz n Deb