Feb 23, 2023
When Elizabeth found out she was pregnant with twins, she was
overjoyed. Then Elizabeth and her husband learned one of their
babies had significant birth defects. They had a life-changing
decision to make. They could carry one healthy baby and sacrifice
the second or try to carry both babies risking the health of both.
In an instant, they decided Elizabeth would carry both twins and
trust God to care for them. Elizabeth knew that baby Joseph may not
be healed, but he was. He had numerous surgeries, but miraculously,
was home from the hospital in less than 8 weeks.
Both boys grew up to be happy and healthy. They shared a room
together, sat next to each other at school, and played numerous
sports together. Elizabeth thought that she knew her life’s
testimony. Joseph was a living miracle. They trusted in God and
were blessed. Joseph would proudly show off his surgical scars,
knowing that his life was a miracle.
Almost 3 years ago, however, everything changed. Joseph was killed
in an ATV accident on the farm with his brother at his side.
Elizabeth was devastated. She fell into deep depression. Elizabeth
had her faith tested in those days, weeks, and months after losing
Joseph, but God did not abandon her. She clung to the fact that
Jesus wept, and she allowed herself to weep as well. If you ask
Elizabeth today how to get through the first weeks and months after
child loss, she will tell you to read your Bible and get a good
psychologist. Surround yourself with people who support you and
will offer love and encouragement.
Every day, Elizabeth reminds herself of this truth - God will have
good come from this. Since the accident, Elizabeth and her family
have seen good happen after Joseph's tragic death. They started the
Joseph Warlick
Memorial Foundation (@allinforever11 on
Facebook/Instagram) to keep Joseph's sweet spirit and love for
soccer alive. They partnered with TOPSoccer to start a local soccer
team for children with special needs. For Elizabeth, game nights
are her favorite of the week, and she knows that seeing kids having
fun playing soccer would make Joseph smile.