As she was taken into surgery on Monday morning , she once again came out of the VERY heavy sedation as they started to move her to the OR. She opened her eyes and held my hand and I told her once again that SHE was the BOSS! She gave me the thumbs up and slowly drifted back to sleep.
As the Doctors came out of the OR to tell us that she would not make it , they very quickly brought her back to her room on ECMO and the Double ventricular assist Device ( Double Berlin) so that we could hold her as she died. They knew we did not want her to die alone without her family. Father Whatley ( "Her Jesus ", this is what she called him ) was with us. We held her and told her it was OK to rest, she did not have to keep fighting. We told her to ride her princess bike right into Jesus arms. She had her ears pierced right before she died . She would have loved it!
The hardest part was the silence. NO more machines , beeps , buzzers , alarms. The Double berlin slowly stopped pumping. She very peacefully left my arms and went into Jesus's. The most peaceful moment of her life (with no more pain and suffering ) was our worst. Saying good bye to someone you love more than life itself is excruciating. A piece of my heart died yesterday. Our life will never be the same without her in it. Our house has a new uncomfortable
silence.
Coming home and leaving her in the hospital was so hard. We bathed her, we held her for hours and we told her how brave she was and how much we loved her . I told her I would ALWAYS love her more.
The silence in our house is beyond painful. Teresa was the magic that surrounded us for almost three years.
I did not want to go to sleep because I knew I would wake up in the morning with out her there. Every morning she would wake up with her sweet little smile and say " What princess dress can I wear today ?"( her bed is in our room so we could monitor her at night with all of her medical equipment).
Her little pink piano sits with all of her little friends on it. She loved to sing and play it.
Her memories are everywhere.
We asked for Teresa to become an organ Donor. Unfortunately all of her organs were too damaged along with her skin and tissue.
Teresa's life was THE MIRACLE! Her Doctors could not believe that she was still alive with the heart she had. Her life touched thousands of people all over the world.
Only by the power of God could a little orphan with half a heart touch so many lives.
Now in Heaven she will touch many more lives. I know she is already a Saint!
Her Story is not over it has only just begun.
Teresa's celebration of her life will be on friday at ST. Mark Church in Catonsville from 2-5 and 7-9. Her funeral mass will be on Saturday at 10 . She will be burried next to my Mother .
We would ask everyone on Friday and Saturday in memory of Teresa to give someone a hug. Teresa hugged EVERYONE. She always said " One more huggy huggle". This is how she spread Gods love to others along with her magical personality.
In Teresa's memory we would like to help other orphans in the world to have a family of their own just like Teresa so desperatly wanted.
We would also ask that in Teresa's memory everyone would register to become an organ Donor and become someones HERO.
I am so touched by you and your family- you have done such an amazing thing for such a sweet little girl. She was so blessed to be with you all. I have kept up with your updates over the past 2 weeks and I have cried every time I read them. What an amazing story. You are such wonderful people and I cannot imagine what you have been though. I know God is with you all to bring you comfort. I will continue to pray for you all.
ReplyDeleteShe was one special little lady! My heart aches for this tremendous loss. THANK you for blessing us by allowing us to share in her life story. PRAYING for you all in the coming days and weeks ahead.
ReplyDeleteTears dear Ann, tears of deep, immense sorrow for your incredible loss and tears of joy for precious Teresa as she is in Jesus' arms and dancing for the King. No more pain. Your amazing family will be in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteTeresa and your family have touched my heart. I have followed Teresa's story every since I saw it on the Today Show. I have prayed and fallen in love with Little Teresa. She is a beautiful girl and you are wonderful parents. My heart broke for Teresa and your entire family. May she Rest In Peace and God be with you all through this very difficult time.
ReplyDeletewith love and prayers from Wooster, Ohio
Words cannot express how sorry we are for your loss. We will keep your family in our thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteBless you.
The Jones Family
Oh I can't imagine what you and your family is going thru. As I read this I started crying like a baby. I do not know you personally but after reading the blogs I feel like she was a little sister. She is now in heaven riding her princess bike dressed in her favorite princess dress. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
ReplyDeleteBiggest hugs,
Lindsey Holmes
Independence, Mo
I am so glad that she had you to love her. Blessings
ReplyDeleteTeresa touched lives all around the planet! That's incredible! As I sat here praying for her all day and constantly checking for updates, I thought how awesome it is that God brought her to her perfect family. Just before she died, the skies turned very, very dark and the rain poured like I've rarely seen. It was if the Heavens were crying. And now I know that was the case.
ReplyDeleteMy husband and I have four grown children and three little ones from China (10,9,9). I cannot begin to imagine the pain you feel at your great loss - the world's great loss. I want you to know we prayed that God would wrap His arms very tight around Teresa's family. We will continue to pray for you.
I want to thank you for loving orphans enough to bring them into your home and make them little princesses. Yours truly is an amazing family.
May God bless and comfort you.
Lou Ellen Partridge Doty
I weep for you and your family. I will hug everyone I can over the next few days in memory of your sweet princess. May God hold you close to His heart during these very difficult days.
ReplyDeletemy heart breaks for your family! Alll our love and prayers to you.
ReplyDeleteThe Sisemore Family
www.tillGodbringsthemhome.blogspot.com
So deeply sorry. She will always be remembered by so many and her legacy will live on.
ReplyDeleteOh this brought me to tears. I can't imagine your pain. I know Teresa was an extremely special little girl and that you were blessed to know her during her short time on earth. Peace to your whole family as you process your loss.
ReplyDeleteI just became aware of Teresa's story last Monday and was moved to tears several times for the first time in 3 years since my grandmother died. I just read an old article about her and found out she was abandoned as a baby (not given up for adoption)? What an amazing journey she took. It is so heartbreaking just watching the few videos you posted seeing how much she loved life and how excited she was for the future. I have been dealing with some chronic health issues of my own and that's why I was home to watch Today. I jotted down her name and searched for her story and couldn't stop going to your blog all week. I had to go into the bathroom at work to cry a few times and couldn't sleep at all Sunday night. She really inspired me to keep fighting and have faith in God's plan. It looks like in all of the pictures you post you are careful not to show what those tubes are connected to so it's easy to forget just how sick she was and how big of a miracle it was that she grew to an age where she could touch so many people. If you could post some more little videos of her I would like to take a look maybe even years from now. No Teresa, I won't forget about you!
ReplyDeleteNick
Oh Ann..your precious girl. My heart aches for you. I pray that God will bless you with strength and peace in the days ahead. As long as I live, I will never forget Teresa.
ReplyDeleteMy son and I just watched a few of her videos. We watched the one where she has Grace's phone and talks about her new heart and her "boyfriend" Chris. Honestly we watched it several times. Such a precious little girl. I loved the image that someone put on FB of her sitting with Jesus with matching crowns. The love and courage your family has is contagious. Thank you for sharing your heart and family. I have been blessed by all of you. Praying for your family.
ReplyDeleteMy thoughts to you and your family. Thank you for letting me get to Teresa through your blog. What a sweetheart. I am glad she was able to have her family for her short time on earth. I know she is a beautiful angel. God bless.
ReplyDeleteI am sure she is riding her Princess bike and FAST... love and hugs to you all...
ReplyDeleteMy 4 yr old Shauna asked me WHY was I crying and I told her... she asked me 'What can I do to make her happy. Can we get her a new heart?'...
Now, I am going to hug my baby tighter...
Here's a cute video I found on youtube.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w77a-MaehqA
I have never met your sweet girl or any of your family, but I am heartbroken over your loss. I am trying so hard to be happy for your Princess, as I know that she is having the BEST time right now, but I can't stop crying for your family left without her. I will be giving all of my own sweet girls extra hugs today.
ReplyDeleteShe is an angel. She always was, but now she has earned her angel wings. I have loved her story and prayed for all of you. I am bringing home 2 sweet boys very soon. I am sure your girl is watching over them for me until I can go get them.... Many orphans earned a new guardian angel I think. <3
ReplyDeleteTears are streaming as I write this... what a miracle your girl will always be. She may have had half a human heart but she had more heart than many people could ever imagine. I would be honored to sign my organ donation card in memory of Theresa.
ReplyDeleteHolding all of you close in prayer as you lay your precious child to rest. I hope you can find some solace in the silence she left behind and that soon your other children will exude the joy they learned from their sister to fill that gap.
Xoxoxo
While unable to have ever met Teresa she has truly touched my heart. My thoughts are with you all. Much love to you...
ReplyDeleteI can't stop thinking about you all even though I don't know you. My heart aches for your loss! Princess Theresa will never be forgotten!
ReplyDeleteDr.Ed, Ann and Family,
ReplyDeleteMy heart aches for you and what you must be going through since losing Teresa. I imagine there is no pain deeper than losing a child. What a great way to honor her and the life she lived with hugs. She would light up the clinic with her smile and infectious laugh every time she came by. I wish I had the words right now to lighten the agony your family must be feeling. My heartfelt sympathies go out to all of you at this very difficult time. I will be giving extra hugs on those days in her honor. I would also like to honor her by donating blood - your entire family is in my thoughts during this sad time. Rebecca P
Ann and Ed,
ReplyDeleteI have followed Teresa from the day she was assigned to the adoption agency I worked for. From the moment we all saw her face we knew she was destined to be an amazing person and would touch many lives. Little could I imagine how many lives she would touch and how truly wonderful your family is for giving Teresa exactly what she wanted - a family of her own. Thank you for giving her the greatest gift of all!
From Oregon to you - great big hugs and condolence. She truly loved you, which is why she fought so hard!
Teresa's spirit has touched me deeply......your family's fortitude has touched me deeply......
ReplyDeletePrayers sent to your family at this difficult time!
ReplyDeleteI feel Teresa is a part of me even though I've never net her - I feel such a bond with her that is unfathomable - my tears continue to flow and my grief astounds me - we also have two Asian princesses - I feel like Teresa was our third- this world is a lot colder without her. We lost someone really special , REALLY special. I am stunned and sick that she is gone- I love u Teresa
ReplyDeleteI can not find more beautiful words than those already written to you as a family so many times.
ReplyDeleteHave followed both the blog and on FB and so desperately wished Little Princess T would be on this earth with her family, the finest family she could wish for.
Many times I have been touched to tears and in particular the peaceful last pictures.
We even have a little heart surgery princess from China which was VERY seriously ill after surgery and hospitalized for 3 months.
Have no words for the pain this must be for the whole family
Many thoughts and strength we will send your way
Sincere thoughts from Fam. Lingren - Denmark
My wife has been following your incredible journey over the last several weeks an filling me in with each update. Your entire family has been in our prayers. I stumbled upon this blog for myself tonight. I am a big strong Firefighter and I am just a blubbering mess as I am reading this. I can't stop crying. No words offered could ever reduce your pain but hopefully knowing that there are thousands who have you all in our thoughts and prayers will be some comfort.
ReplyDeleteI pray that God will find a way to heal your sorrow quickly and turn it into a blessing somehow.
Dear Ann and family,
ReplyDeleteYour post brought me to tears. I cannot imagine what it must be like to loose a child... Thinking of you and your family all the time and giving you a virtual hug from the other end of the ocean...
Warm regards,
Claudia Huisman, The Netherlands
For 1.5 years we have been following your family's and Teresa's amazing story on your blog. Our sincerest condolances on having lost Teresa. Surely she was a miracle and her star will shine continually in the sky above.
ReplyDeleteI am crying tears for your loss. My heart and deep prayers go to,you and your family. Teresa was so blessed to have you in her life but I think like all of us we got more from her in our lives. I did not know any of you but what little I came to know my life has been changed because of you. God bless all of you. I hope your journey through this difficult time is somewhat easier because of a beautiful princess who is watching over you. Flo
ReplyDeleteI'm crying so many tears. She is in a good place and felt still feels your love. Thank you, Ann, for sharing your life and Teresa with us through your blog. While you could have justifiably kept Teresa's adoption an entirely personal event for you and your family, you instead decided to share with us, with me. Your unconditional love for and support of Teresa is my personal lesson learned. A parent's worst ordeal is to lose a child... Does the certainty of your child having felt and known your love was genuine lesson your pain somewhat? I do hope so. You know you did what she needed most, even more than a healed heart, you gave her love and taught her the love of Jesus was there for her forever. What a glorious gift. My life with my three girls adopted from China is changed for the better because of Teresa and your openess and willingness to share a glimpse of your life with us, with me. Thank you and may tiaras shine in Heaven always.
ReplyDeleteI never met you or your family. Your daughter inspired me with her joy. I pray for your family during this time. Thanks for sharing this time with so many people around the world.
ReplyDeleteDear Ann and family,
ReplyDeleteYour strength is this terribly sad moment in your lives is amazing and inspiring. Yes, we all know Teresa is healthy, pain free, and very happy playing with Jesus now, but that does not take away the hurt from her loss. I also do think her miracle was living far longer than any medical person thought. I have followed your blog since 2010, and remember several times where she had not been doing well and lots of prayers were needed for her to continue to bless your lives. Miraculously, she always pulled through.
I will continue my rosary for you and your family so that you also canhave peace and healing. I am already an organ donor and I will continue to encourage others to do the same.
I cannot make the funeral but do know myself and my family are there in spirit and prayers.
God bless all of you,
Lee Ann
Oh Ann and family - which is how you feel - as family....
ReplyDeleteTeresa is such a gift from God - she touched so many souls - since the "before time" when she was known as "Lucy" to today. I am so greatly relieved that she could be with family before she went home - this is how it should be...
I look forward to one day running with her - and giving her that hug she so richly deserves from all of us.
hugs - aus and co.
Have followed your family's journey for almost all of Teresa's time with you - such joys that she has brought to you and all of whom that have been touched by her, even from across the world. She was held with unconditional love at her first breath and you ensured that she was at her last too and will hold her as she travels onwards. Death is just a doorway through which one must pass to a place where we know, in the words of Julian of Norwich,'that all shall be well'.
ReplyDeleteHugs and Prayers to your family. And thank you so much for sharing your beautiful Princess Teresa with the world. May she ride that princess bike around and around all day long. Sherri
ReplyDeleteThank you for this post, although I know how painful it must be for you to write. It allows those of us who have followed Teresa and your family some measure of peace. To know that she died in your arms sets my mind at rest, although my heart still breaks. I pray (and will continue to pray) for peace for your family. You are doing God's work on earth & he will sustain you.
ReplyDeleteMuch love.
We have such a deep respect for your whole family and we grieve the loss of your precious Teresa. We continue to lift you all in prayer for peace and comfort and that the Lord would continue to use the life of your little dynamo to touch others.
ReplyDeleteGod bless and keep you all.
The Carr Family
I know this is such an emotional time for you and your family. The loss of Teresa is heartbreaking. God is the mender of hearts. He's there in your sorrow. Teresa is in His tender loving arms, but your grief is very real and painful. I remember watching posts about Teresa while she was still an orphan in China. She was everyone's little sweetheart and there were so many prayers and hopes for a family to find her. God gave her that opportunity and everyone was so happy for her. Thank you for loving her and letting her know how much she was cherished.
ReplyDeleteTeresa (and your family) are such an inspiration of love and joy (and heartbreak). I will definitely be hugging my children on Friday in honor of Teresa. Thank you for letting us all get to know Teresa (and your amazing family). She will be in my heart forever as well. God's blessing today and everyday.
ReplyDeleteI have been quietly following your blog for sometime now and prayed for Teresa daily. Thank you for sharing your family with us. Teresa's story is a blessing to me, to see the faith of your family and to witness the grace that you all carriy yourselves with is inspiring.
ReplyDeleteAll day Monday on and off my daughters (adopted from China 12/12/2010) were singing "Our God is an Awesome God". I know that Teresa is in Heaven now dancing with the angels.
Much love to you and your family.
I can not imagine how your hearts are hurting right now. Please know that all of you are in my prayers. I was enchanted by her from the moment I first saw her photo while she was still in China!
ReplyDeleteI told my nine year old Theresa's story and she asked to become an organ donor. It's a thought that my husband and I have always struggled with it, but because of Theresa, we are now all committed to organ donation in the event of any tragedy to our family.
ReplyDeleteI only know your sweet Teresa through your blog and your family. We are also an adoptive family with two boys (4 & 7) from China. The love you had for this little child is just overwhelming. I am sitting at work crying for the loss you must endure, yet rejoicing that she knows OUR JESUS and is waiting in Heaven for you all. I will continue to pray for your family and your enormous grief. Hugs! I'm sure you know what a huge impact Teresa's life had on others. I will remember her forever as the little Boss! :)
ReplyDeleteI just want 2 say thank you! Thank you for showing me there are beatiful people in the world that I haven't ment but would love 2!!! I'm so sorry this happened to you but you n you family are miracles to along with that little princess of yours and now the worlds! But most of all she's a beatiful princess in heaven!
ReplyDeleteThe James and Hilton family
Thank you 2 !!!!!!
Ann, thank you for letting us be a part of your lives. We are so, so sad for you and your family even as we know Teresa is with her Jesus in heaven. You are all in our prayers.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you all for sharing her. She has forever touched my heart and changed my life. Shes is seriously one in a million. I am once again brought completely to tears as I read your blog. I could never do it.... I love her so much as if she is my own child. I have followed blogs for many years but none have I ever felt when they passed if it was my own and this one I do. I loved your little girl so much and I always will thanks again for letting her come into my life. I can only pray to meet her one day.
ReplyDeleteCrystal
Sending wishes for memories that will feel like sunshine in the years to come, and time and space to feel the clouds and rain right now..that also hold beauty. What a beautiful, radiant child!
ReplyDeleteI have started to leave a comment on several of your posts, but find myself at a loss for words. But here goes...I just keep feeling thankful. Thankful that you chose to step into the life of a child b/c that's what children deserve, regardless of potential heartache; thankful that Teresa became celebrated as a princess, as every little girl should be; thankful she had the opportunity to let her light shine; thankful that she was known as a daughter, sister, & friend. Witnessing your journey has blessed many, & I am thankful to have been reminded over & over again through Teresa's enthusiasm for life of what is truly important in this world.
ReplyDeleteThere is nothing I can say to ease your pain, just please know that those she touched here on FB and around the world are hurting along with you, We didn't know her personally but through you, we did. We knew of her love, her strength, her courage, her sparkling personality and are forever changed. Thank you for sharing Teresa with us and I am so so sorry for the pain you are going thru, we will always be here for you and will ALWAYS remember Teresa. GOD BLESS!
ReplyDeleteI hope grief you feel can be slightly lessened knowing there are thousands helping to carry a small piece of it in their hearts as well.
ReplyDeleteTeresa was such a blessing.Thank you for seeing that in her from a portfolio in Beijing, bringing her home to be loved by her forever family and working so hard to extend her life on earth. She has touched so many more lives in such a short time than most people ever do. May your story inspire others to pursue adoption of a child who needs a family even if the road isn't an easy one. Every child needs to feel the love Teresa had.
Ann Tembreull
Gladstone, MI
Mom to Claire & Lydia, both from China
Teresa sounds like a beautiful person. Know that we are praying for God to send you comfort and strength. Thinking of your family.
ReplyDeleteAnn,
ReplyDeleteI read your post to my wife last night and we cried for your sweet little one and your family. I can only imagine the hole her loss has left in your family. But she is at peace. She is with God. And she knew the love of a family. What a blessing and testament of the love God has for us. Thank you for sharing your story. Teresa, you and your family are very much on our minds and in our prayers these coming days. My little one (Nuala, my 6yo Princess) during prayers before breakfast added a special prayer for Teresa and her family who is hurting....surely she is with Him. You are right, she is a saint already and I know she is watching over us! May God bless you and your family!
Dave & Heather Stanghellini, Rina, Nuala, and Anna
I'm so sorry for your loss. I can't imagine what you are going through. BUT I do know this, just like my dad, she is healed and happy and running and playing on the streets of gold and she gets to praise Jesus in person!!
ReplyDeleteGod be with your family and please know I will be praying for you all!!
Debbie Wankel
Deepest sympathies. I do not know you, but your words and story have touched so many. You were so lucky to have each other, even if it was for such a short time. You all had a love that many dream about and I, for one, am thankful to have read about your lives. You are all an inspiration, and I will pray for your family. Again, I'm so sorry for your loss and hope her wonderful memories van bring you comfort at this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteMy heart hurts so much for you and your family. I am just so happy that you (and your family) and Theresa had each other to love these past three years. That is a blessing. Hugs to you all during this very difficult time - hold tight to the memories that you will always cherish. xo
ReplyDeleteHubby and I are registered organ donors. Our teen daughters who will be licensed soon will be encouraged to check the "yes" boxes on their license applications. It brings me comfort to know that my late beloved brother was able to save three lives after a massive stroke took his. I thought you'd like to know this. Hugs to you in your time of deepest sadness. Yes - the house will never be the same again. One chair is empty. Princess dresses will hang unworn. Grief is cruel. Faith is the antidote. I hold you in prayer. God bless.
ReplyDeleteDear Bartlinski Family,
ReplyDeleteThank you for loving recklessly. Thank you for being willing to love with abandon. Thank you for shining the light of Christ so very brightly. Thank you for sharing Teresa with us. She is amazing, and so very special. Which is why I am so heartbroken for your family, and for the rest of the world,because we miss out on her magical personality and love while we wait to join her. I know that I know she is with our Father, and oh that is so glorious. I am praying for you and your whole family to have peace today and the days to come, till you hold her again in glory. Please know our family is changed from watching yours. We will never forget your precious Teresa.
blessings,
Joy, Mamma to 3 gifts from China
I am so, so sorry for your loss. It takes a lot of strength and faith to adopt a child who is ill -- your love for your little girl and desire that she be surrounded by nothing but love on her journey serves as an inspiration to others to adopt children like Teresa. That is an amazing legacy for her and I hope that brings some peace to you during this heartbreak. Sending you love and prayers.
ReplyDeleteAnn....
ReplyDeleteThis post, your words, the entire situation. It has touched my deepest emotions. Tears are coming.... They are on the verge as I read this....
--Hugs!!--
--Raelyn
Thank you for sharing the photos of you hugging Teresa. She was so loved and her love was shared by so many. Her brave, beautiful spirit will live on in our hearts. Our warmest prayers are with your family. Love, Carolyn
ReplyDeleteps. On Monday, at the entrance to our son's Life Teen camp on a beautiful mountaintop near Prescott, AZ, the sign read "Our prayers for Teresa". What a beautiful sight, for a beautiful little soul.
I can't even believe she didn't make it. We are all heartbroken. Many tears have been shed for your sweet angel. I am so sorry for your loss and the world's loss. She was amazing!!! I love Jenny Bowen's idea of a fund in Teresa's name to help the critically ill children get the care they need in China. In the past month three China heart babies have passed in the United States and it's hearbreaking. I'm sure Teresa is giving them hugs in heaven!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing the photos of you hugging Teresa. She was so loved and her love was shared by so many. Her brave, beautiful spirit will live on in our hearts. Our warmest prayers are with your family. Love, Carolyn
ReplyDeleteps. On Monday, at the entrance to our son's Life Teen camp on a beautiful mountaintop near Prescott, AZ, the sign read "Our prayers for Teresa". What a beautiful sight, for a beautiful little soul.
No words....just sending love and tears. Thank you for sharing all of this journey so fearlessly. I feel blessed to witness your love and faith and to have known Teresa a tiny bit. Many more prayers for you.....
ReplyDeleteAll I can say is your grief is palpable and I hurt for you. I've never been so affected by something that has nothing to do with me. My heart is broken for you and your sweet family.
ReplyDeleteMy son (also 6 1/2 and from China; born just 4 days after Teresa) wanted to say how sorry he is that Teresa is gone from your family. We were praying for her, and my son said that he thought for sure Teresa would make it through her operation. I can't imagine your pain right now, and we are praying that God gives you strength, encouragement and comfort.
ReplyDeleteI have been following your battle for this beautiful child's life for quite a long time, I am so touched by her bravery, I learned to love her from a distance....praise Jesus that we are assured that she is in a place where there is no more pain.... Rest peacefully little warrior, you have been loved by many...I pray for the peace that only God can give to her family.. ..there is a new day dawning and joy comes in the moring and in the memory of a joyous happy lawyer little girl. thank you Jesus that she knew the love of a family before you called her home.
ReplyDeleteO Lord who preserves children, receive your handmaiden Teresa into your heavenly kingdom, and to the hearts of those who love her, send the balm of you Holy Spirit.
ReplyDeleteTeresa changed our lives. My 6 year old daughter (also adopted from China) and I will continue to pray for you and your family....we will never forget Teresa, we will give more "huggy huggles", we will wear tiaras, we will spread the word on organ donation, and we will help more orphans find their forever families...in Teresa's memory. Thank you Ann and Ed for sharing your special gift from God with us.
ReplyDeleteI do not know you or your family: I just saw this through a facebook share. My heartfelt sorrow for your pain. God simply asks us to be there for others know matter how and for how long. You and Teresa followed thus path. Peace be with you. Brian M.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautifully written story. Your family is amazing. You gave Teresa such a wonderful life, even though it was for a short period of three years. I cannot imagine the silence you are experiencing right now. But, I know you are at peace knowing she is with Jesus in no more pain, riding her princess bike, in her princess dress, smiling and touching the lives of everyone she meets. Her story will live on....more than 5000 followers, think about how many will become organ donors now. I know nothing can take away the pain you guys have without Teresa there, but her story has gone world wide, and that has to bring a smile to your faces. Thank you so much for sharing her story. Ann, you and your husband are so special. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. There is an angel smiling down this day,the sun is shining, this girl is beautifully dressed in princess attire, touching the lives of people she meets and looking for the next person she can help create a miracle for..........Miss Teresa, we love you!! What a blessing you have been!!!
ReplyDeleteNo words can express the sorrow and loss your family is going through. May all your memories with her help ease your pain. She touched so many hearts/lives through out the world. I will always remember this little girl who loved princess and tiara's! Thank you and your family for sharing her. May god give you the strength to celebrate her precious life. She is smiling down on you!
ReplyDeleteAnn and Ed, those last pictures of you holding Teresa will forever remain in my heart. That is true love. I can just see Jesus taking her from your arms and carrying her off to heaven. Looks just like Mary holding her son after his death. She knows what you are feeling. Reach out to her in your sorrow, and feel the love she has for you. Thank you so very much for giving Teresa a real family before she went to be with Jesus.
ReplyDeleteFrom one adoptive family to another, I am so glad your precious daughter got to experience the LOVE of a special family and all of the activities and adventures of just being a child and part of a family, for the past 3 years. Your family gave her what she most wanted and needed! Teresa is so special and will continue to touch and live on in the lives of others thru her magical personality. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers and we hope you can find strength, comfort and peace in the days ahead.
ReplyDeleteThe Torcisi Family
Elkridge, MD
Thank you for loving Teresa. I have been following Teresa since before she had a family in China. My heart is breaking at her passing but I know she is having the ultimate princess party as a daughter of The King. May The Lord comfort and Bless you and your family. Teresa will never be forgotten and always loved.
ReplyDeleteDear Ann and Ed,
ReplyDeleteI have had the privilege of knowing your family as a member of St. Mark's. Words cannot express how grateful I am that you shared this beautiful child and her story with all of us. We are forever changed. I think the Lord chose you to be Teresa's parents because He wanted to share her with the world. The pain you now experience reminds me of the C.S. Lewis's book about the death of his beloved wife, entitled, A Severe Mercy.
Mother Teresa said, "Prayer enlarges the heart until it is capable of containing God's gift of himself." I believe that many lives have received God's gift of himself because of their prayers for Teresa.
You will remain in my heart, my prayers and my tears.
Barbara
All the love to all those affected by the loss of Teresa to her heavenly home. But more, what a blessing that SO many had an opportunity to be loved & blessed by such a wonderful giving soul!!
ReplyDelete'As I started to picture the trees in the storm, the answer began to dawn on me. The trees in the storm don;t try to stand up straight and tall & erect. They allow themselves to bend and be blown with the wind. They understand the power of letting go. Those trees & those branches that try too hard ti stand up strong & straight are the ones that break.
JB Hill'
Allow yourselves to be blown with the wind & be enveloped by Teresa's love!!
ReplyDeleteDear Bartlinski Family,
Psalm 27 - v.10 "Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me... v.13 I am confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. " Your family has been exactly that - the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living to Teresa! And what a great job you did of representing His goodness to her! Bless you all for that.
I've only followed these last 3 weeks and prayed for Teresa and all of you. Praying now for the God of all comfort to hold you in His arms and heal your broken hearts.
Sincerely,
Betsy Tardy
Lubbock, TX
I knew from the moment I started reading your blogs a few weeks back that not only Teresa, but you as well, were angels right here on earth. If only there were more people like you, what a wonderful place earth would be! Thank you, thank you, thank you for all that you do.......!
ReplyDeleteI am so very, very sorry for your loss. May God help you carry your grief and may you take comfort knowing that your princess is whole and healthy in heaven. Eternal life grant unto Teresa, O God, and may perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace.
ReplyDeleteGod has blessed you all. For as long as I live I never forget the impact T had on our home. Loving yall in SC
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful tribute to an amazing little girl. Your daughter. No longer an orphan but a daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece and Daughter of the King! Praising God right now for your obedience in stepping out in faith to graft her into your family and into your heart. Praising God that He is faithful in all things and that He was glorified through the beauty of your precious little girl! Praising God for the promise of heaven and the eternity you will have to love Teresa more forever. Praying for your family as you grieve her loss here on earth and Praising Him with you as she is once again made whole! Your amazing faith is a testimony to all who encounter your family. What a blessing you are to me!
ReplyDeleteI have prayed for Theresa and your family for quite a while now...and prayers for your family continue. Thank you for sharing these difficult words with the world.....thank you for bringing this child into your family and loving her with all your hearts. I am one of many who will always remember the story of your sweet girl's journey and love bigger because of it. Prayers, Jennifer
ReplyDeleteMay Jesus be holding you all in his arms with love.
ReplyDeleteThank you for allowing Teresa to fulfill a very important mission - teaching us the value of life and the healing love of forever families. Indeed families are schools of love - and what a teacher you had...thank you for sharing her with us. The first thing I thought of when seeing Teresa in your arms - was the blue and white blanket (looked like what Mother Teresa) wore....now we have another Saint Teresa. With love and prayers - Karin, Jerry and JunFen
ReplyDeleteI have had one if my favorite hymns on repeat in my head for days now, and your family is the reason why. "Farther along, we'll know more about it/ Farther along, we'll understand why/ Cheer up my brother; live in the sunshine/ we'll understand it all by and by." Those who have faith in Christ do not grieve as those without hope, but we still grieve. We walk through the valley of the shadow of death, but we are never alone, never abandoned. I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that we are praying for your family as you wade through your grief. Please be comforted knowing that in Heaven, a lifetime for us is a blink of an eye for Teresa. She will blink her eyes, turn, and you will be with her again. Your love is eternal.
ReplyDeleteChrist be with you all. She now can give Jesus as many hugs as she wishes day and night for all eternity.
ReplyDeleteI continue to pray for your family several times a day. The pain I feel in my heart over your loss and Teresa no longer being with you physically cannot be explained in words. I know I will miss seeing that beautiful little face and smile. I cannot stop crying. Thank you for sharing her and your journey together with the rest of us. Always trust that God, our Father, will be with you every single moment to help you and your family through your mourning process. I know that Teresa will also continue to touch your lives from Heaven and bring you moments of peace when you least expect it.
ReplyDeleteYour are in my thoughts and I will continue to pray for you. Thank you for bringing me closer to God. I don't usually pray this often, but I cannot stop myself. I want so much for you and your family to feel peace and joy in your lives again. You gave Teresa the best gift anyone can give another human being and that is love. Thank you for helping make the world a better place through Teresa. I will never forget you or Teresa who is a precious little angel.
Erika,
New Jersey
If I lived near you I would come over and just 'be' with you - let you bawl, sob, kick a door, scream, whatever you needed to do. I might do some laundry or dishes for you be there for your other children. It really feels like God has asked way too much of you. I know He's right there with you, but boy is He asking for a lot right now. You all are loved and prayed for still.
ReplyDeleteYour sweet Teresa has been on my prayer list for 4 years - when we in the adoption community knew her as "Lucy" and "Fang Fang" and all she wanted was a family. You gave her exactly what she wanted and so much more. You did a good job momma. I hope I get to witness your reunion in heaven which right now seems just too far away.
Thank you so much for sharing your family and your journey with us. You have gone above and beyond.
You all are precious, precious people who got to parent an angel right here on earth not near long enough in my opinion.
Love,
Lori
Oh God Bless You ALL...
ReplyDeleteMy heart aches for all of you in your sorrow.
BUT it rejoices for Teresa who is now free of all pain and confinement...
Teresa is a hero- she is a blessing to all of us. Your family stepped out in faith to bring home a precious little girl who's life was in God's hands- no promises were made when you brought her home. BUT you trusted HIM and he delivered- not what we wanted but still for HIS glory.
By bringing your daughter home you have made a difference and touched everyone in the adoption community. Praying that others step out in faith and more of these treasure will be visible to the world...
My
thank you for your faithfulness - to Him, to her, and even to us, in being willing to share this story of Overflowing Love
ReplyDeleteBecause of your family she experienced love.
ReplyDeleteI know there are no words I could offer to ease your pain. I am so very sorry for your loss and pray God will give you comfort in the days, weeks, and months to come. Thank you being such an example of His love!!!
ReplyDeleteToday is 7/13/13 and I only just now learned of Teresa's passing while I was looking for information on her recovery from surgery. I've been crying for hours and I can't seem to stop. I felt certain in my heart she would pull through and continue on as a beautiful princess for years to come. Words can't express how I feel right now. Never have I felt such closeness and such loss for person who I never met. Teresa's soul shined brighter than most; Her Father in Heaven saw her light and, because of his love for her, lifted her up onto his tandem bike and brought her home to play with Angels.
ReplyDeleteGod bless your family for bringing such happiness to her short life. You gave her a lifetime of love in a very few years. Thank you.
Jesus loves her more!