Timothy Joseph Elfstrand was born on August 11, 2007 in Caldwell, Idaho. His first few weeks were challenging because he had such a hard time learning to eat, but for several months after that he appeared to be growing normally. After we moved to California in February 2008, we noticed several months where there were very few changes in his development, and there were things that he did once but couldn’t repeat. On June 12, 2008, Timmy became so weak that he could no longer stand. On June 13 he was diagnosed with Leigh Syndrome, a type of mitochondrial disorder. Something in his mitochondria (the energy powerhouse of the cells) was broken, which meant that his body could not produce enough energy for brain and muscle function. Next he lost the strength to eat and was hospitalized for six weeks. After he got home, our family had five months together to enjoy our sweet boy. We love him dearly and miss him so very much, but we rejoice that he is in the presence of the Lord and has all the energy he needs.
For more information about mitochondrial disease, see The United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation or The Mitochondrial Disease Action Committee.
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To the Elfstrand family:
I just got done reading about the day that Timmy passed away. I just cannot imagine the depth of your sorrow. I have an 19-month old daughter and I know that I would miss her terribly. And I can't imagine that the sorrow is any less since you knew that it his last day would be coming soon. I pray that you will feel the Lord's big arms around you. His blessings, Vanessa Moldovan (WMBI listener)
Thank you for writing about Timmy's dear life. We are keeping you in our prayers.
Love,
K & L
I've been praying repeatedly throughout the morning for the Lord's comfort and peace to surround you as you lay Timmy to rest. And another thought occurred to me, too - that Great Grandpa Nelson is meeting Timmy around the Throne of God! Wow!
How wonderful to be able to see those beautiful pictures of Timmy! Thank you for sharing his life and your love. Kathie was sharing at team meeting this morning the many ways that Lara had seen God's gracious timing in so many of these circumstances.
We miss you two!
We pray that you continue to sense Jesus' sustaining grace when you miss your little one. Regina & Jim
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