Becoming a parent is one of life’s biggest decisions, and it certainly brings about significant changes. Every parent hopes for their child’s health and happiness, but sometimes fate has other plans.
Nick Schnarr and his wife Brooklyn experienced this firsthand when their third child was born seven years ago, and they were faced with a nightmarish situation. Their son was seriously ill, and doctors were not optimistic about his prognosis.
Their baby had severe hydrocephalus, a condition where there is too much brain fluid, which was a dire diagnosis. Highly regarded fetal specialists at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital gave Nick and Brooklyn the heartbreaking news that there was a 90 percent chance their son would not survive.
At best, he would be severely brain-damaged and require lifelong care. Doctors asked the parents to prepare for the worst and even discussed palliative care options.
Brooklyn moved to Cincinnati to be near the hospital, while Nick commuted back and forth to take care of their other children. The day arrived, and Brooklyn was transferred to the maternity ward for a cesarean.
Doctors had another meeting with the couple to discuss using a breathing tube and when they might need to remove it to let the baby “go to heaven.” However, when the baby was born, he let out a loud cry, defying all the odds.
The baby boy, whom they named Charlie, spent time in intensive care, but after a while, he was allowed to go home with his family.
Charlie appeared to be just like any other baby, with no signs of his previous serious illness. Doctors were stunned by his recovery and described it as “divine intervention” or a “miracle.”
Nick credits the power of prayer and faith for Charlie’s recovery, saying that he knows God was involved. He is grateful for the support and love from family, friends, and even strangers who prayed for their family during this difficult time.
This story is a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming odds, hope and faith can prevail, and miracles can happen.