The Power of Showing Up
Remember Dana from our last email? She noticed a need—her friend Corey spent every church service in a side room with her youngest daughter, who has a disability, away from the rest of her family—and stepped into that need, offering to care for Klementine one-on-one during worship.
Dana grew up with an older brother who had autism and epilepsy. He passed away in 2015 from colon cancer, but living life alongside him gave her a unique perspective. Today, she seeks to serve in his memory.
Dana often wondered if Klementine remembered her from week to week. Then, one day, Klementine’s little hands reached for the necklace Dana always wore, and she had her answer.
Dana has become an integral part of the Addison family’s story—and they, hers. Recently, when Corey’s second-oldest son got married, Dana was there, caring for Klementine so Corey could be fully present.
“The truth is, Jesus is at work through her,” Corey said. “It was Him giving her the courage to reach out and help our family in the most beautiful way. When people like Dana choose to step in, to do life alongside families like ours, it transforms everything.”
Many people are afraid of what they don’t understand, and at 99 Balloons, we know that families experiencing disability often face fear, isolation, and uncertainty. That is why we are dedicated to changing the story of disability. Sweet friendships like Dana and Klementine’s remind us that God calls us to live life together.
Sometimes, the most ordinary acts of care become the most beautiful reflections of His love. Sometimes, simply showing up is everything.
Will you join us in changing the story of disability? Click below to give & your support will extend the reach of 99 Balloons to new churches like Dana & Corey’s, bringing relational hours, stories of belonging yet to be told to new communities.