Posted on 01/19/2020 8:43:43 AM PST by Mean Daddy
Mary Patricia Heithoff peacefully passed from this life into the loving arms of God and her parents on January 17th, 2020.
She was born in Council Bluffs, on June 14th, 1958, to Robert and Donna Heithoff. She was diagnosed with Down syndrome, and at that time there were no pamphlets, no early intervention centers, no support groups, no anything to help her parents. In fact, doctors told them that she would be feeble-minded and helpless, she would not live more than eighteen years, and she would be a burden for them and their other children. The experts advised them to place her in an institution. They didn't do that. They believed there was value in every life. They brought her home to five siblings and raised her along with them and the two other children who were born subsequently.
Her family did not dwell on what Mary could not do. Instead, they taught her all they could and delighted in every milestone she achieved. What they didn't expect is what she would teach them and every person lucky enough to know her — how to live joyfully, how to laugh, how to love.
(Excerpt) Read more at nonpareilonline.com ...
Indeed so!
Down’s people are some of the most beautiful, loving, joyous, people on the planet.
Down’s people are some of the most beautiful, loving, joyous, people on the planet.
I was always struck by how gentle and genial...sweet,I guess you could say...they were even when they were ill.But OTOH it was obvious that caring for such a person was a *huge* challenge.Those who do so well...be it family or a facility...have my utmost respect.
Would love to see her smiling face beholding our dear savior and king Jesus Christ.
RIP.
“Would love to see her smiling face beholding our dear savior and king Jesus Christ.”
Look up at the night sky, and you will see her smile shining brightly. And the Lord is happy to have her home.
We will. ;)
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