I have some friends with a daughter named Raina that was happy and healthy at the age of five. Their first indication something was amiss was when she began losing her balance while walking. That was seven years ago. Since that time, Raina has suffered greatly. She has displaced her hips and to correct it, the doctors put her legs in a cast. While the casts were on, her femurs broke from the intense spasms. Raina was put in the hospital for 6 months with the status, dystonicus, otherwise known as dystonic storms that last for days! Her diagnosis is dystonia, so severe even specialists do not know what to do to help stop it, as there are only a few documented cases, worldwide. She is well mentally, but can’t communicate verbally. She continues to learn, communicate with her eyes, and respond with emotion. However, physically she is held captive by a disease that has distorted her body so much she has been in a wheelchair for 7 years. Her family has suffered greatly too; watching their daughter and sister live in pain daily. Sometimes the pain is so severe because of her intense spasms from all voluntary muscles and joints, that she screams and writhes in pain. This isn’t for a few minutes or only an hour; it can go on for days.

This family has a strong faith in the One True Living God and Jesus Christ our Savior. In fact, her daddy came to know the Lord as His personal Savior through the suffering of Raina. They are a family of faith. They praise God daily for His work all around Him that most of us take for granted. Currently, Raina is in the hospital (once again) in a drug induced paralysis of her body and is intubated (on a ventilator). My friends know our God is a God who heals. They know He is truly the only One that can heal Raina, but at this time He has chosen not to in the way we all desire. Raina wants relief from pain. Her family and their friends want her to have relief. Of course, that is natural isn’t it? However, they trust our Heavenly Father.

I am asking if YOU will pray for Raina? Will you ask God to do a mighty work? All I ask is that you take time to intercede on behalf of Raina and join this family in asking for her healing. Whether you pray for 3 minutes, hours or days just a prayer of healing is all I ask.

Her parents (Rajeev & Susie) have asked if she is ready to be with the Lord and free from pain. She has answered their question with a tearful yes through her eyes.

On behalf of Raina and this family; thank you for reading this, sharing this request with others and for your prayers. I sincerely thank you too.

In His Love,

Lori

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