…so this is a bittersweet moment.  I have finally made a decision but I have to say that each of these families is deserving of this gift in more ways than I can count.  Each of the families nominated have been through my worst nightmare in one way or the other.  My heart goes out to all of them and certainly prayers of health and happiness.  I also want to thank everyone who sent in nominations.  I truely appreciate the time you set aside in order to reach out to someone in need.  Keep doing it.  This is the stuff that makes the world go round!  So without further ado, here is the email I recieved about the Howell Family. 

Greetings,

I would like to nominate my cousin Matt Howell. Matt, age 31, was diagnosed with Malignant Astrocytic Neoplasm (inoperable brain cancer) in June at Barnes Jewish Hospital. Just prior to this diagnosis, his wife of two years, Amy, found out they were pregnant with their first child after many fertility procedures. Triumph to tragedy within a few short days. Even after a round of chemo and radiation, Matt has since lost his vision due to the tumor and is periodically in and out of the hospital with various complications (seizures, pneumonia, blood clots, fever). He is currently living with his parents for around-the-clock care, and his wife has just applied for Medicaid due to the enormous medical bills. Their daughter, Mattie Marie, is scheduled to be induced on Dec. 18. What a gift it would be to capture those amazing moments together during her first few weeks of life. Photos may be the only memories Mattie will have of her daddy. We believe in a God who still performs miracles today, just as He did 2000 years ago. Please consider this nomination for two reasons: one for the miracle that is Mattie, and two, the hope for a miracle to come for her daddy, Matt.

Thank you and many blessings to you and yours this Christmas season,

Christy Starling

Allen, TX