The Smith Family // Testimony
When we graduated Lori from homeschool High School in 2010, we wrote a story of her life thus far. She was 22-years-old. It was time to share with others how God performed miracles, carried us, guided us, protected us, healed us, empowered us, taught us and loved us, always. This is the youngest of our three children. This child has taken us on a medical, educational, emotional, and spiritual journey that has helped our family become who we are today.
Her arrival in this world came through emergency C-section then being whisked off to Rainbow Babies’ and Children’s Hospital in Cleveland with respiratory distress. First of many miracles: she was diagnosed with pneumonia, but appeared to have no other complications at that time.
At three-months they thought she was going to be blind, but a miracle: she was labeled as having big eyes.
She didn't grow for 9 months, but a miracle: no problems discovered.
They thought she was going to be deaf, but a miracle: hearing is perfect.
She sat alone at age one and walked at age two.
Due to these delays, the neurologist was going to tell us she had severe mental retardation and we should pursue finding a residential facility for her at this point. But instead, he gave her the diagnosis of "enigma." What a miracle! She eventually received a diagnosis of Pervasive Developmental Disorder on the Autism Spectrum at age 10.
The educational journey brought us to where we live today, moving to Akron from one of our hometowns in 1997. It was a journey that we were only able to manage and survive by God carrying us through.
We came to Cornerstone in late 2005. The atmosphere was so warm and welcoming. God identified for us, telling us, Cornerstone Church is your "home."
God, again, had taken care of us. We are so very grateful to the Pastors, leadership, and precious people who attend Cornerstone. You have embraced our family, loved our family, and provided for our family in countless ways. Our daughter was able to participate in youth activities; and, in most recent years, help with the preschool class and participate in the Shining Light class.
We remain faithful to God. We trust Him in His leading and care for us. He is our Rock!
Kurt, Debbie, and Lori Smith