Don't Retract Pack

Amidst Shekinah Glory, Husband Loses Best Friend and Sings His Baby Girl to Heaven

By Danelle Frisbie © 2011

Beautiful Baby Miranda with her Momma's ring on

My hands are trembling as I type this. Knowing there is simply no way to do justice to two beautiful lives we lost this past week. Knowing further still that there is nothing in my power that can be done to ease the pain of loss that one husband and father is having to endure. All I can do is lift him up. Tell a tiny fraction of his story, and hopefully ease a bit of the strain that comes with burying his best friend (his wife) and daughter, and celebrate their lives with him.

This past Saturday, Chad Cole and his wife, Sara, were traveling along I-94 to their uncle's house in Michigan. Sara was 35 weeks pregnant, and they were both overjoyed looking forward to this new baby soon to arrive. Chad and Sara had met in college at Spring Arbor University over 15 years ago, and married in 1996. Chad says they lived a "suitably quiet" life together, filled with evenings cuddling on the couch, watching television, and playing Sudoku. This new baby would be their first child - one they'd tried and waited and prayed for.


When they first found they were expecting, Chad and Sara decided to keep it a secret between the two of them. They planned to break the news to their parents on Grandparents Day, but ended up being too excited to wait that long. Chad's eager new-father spirit broke through into daddy blogging on a site he called, Our Little Secret. He posted a picture of the pregnancy test with two small pink lines showing, and later wrote that this day, June 19th, was the best of 2010. "Two lines...two beautiful...perfect...clearly readable pink lines...that's my best memory of 2010. You've got big shoes to fill 2011...big shoes..."


This past weekend, Chad and Sara did not know yet if they would be blessed with a son or daughter, but a few short weeks would reveal the surprise. Chad said that “Sara was very excited about the arrival of this baby. She was looking forward to being a full-time mom.” Her boss at Brown Floral in Jackson, Michigan, didn't feel exactly the same way. Chris Grostefon said that Sara had such a talent for arranging flowers - especially for weddings - that she didn't want her to leave the shop. Staff were already in the process of putting together an album featuring Sara's work, and Grostefon asked Sara if she'd be a 'wedding consultant' on occasion while she was busy mothering her little one at home. With a love for sewing, the new momma-to-be spent these past several weeks pouring her heart into an assortment of baby-related projects, including sewing new clothes for her upcoming arrival.

Sara's quilt in progress for her baby

As many around the nation are well aware, the Midwest blizzards of Feb 5th came in fierce and ferociously as Chad and Sara were traveling on Saturday. Sara's father was driving the van they rode in, her mother also up front, while Chad and Sara sat in the backseat. It was near white-out conditions and very difficult to see the road or other drivers. With accidents up ahead on the interstate in Sandstone Township, they pulled to a stop near the side of the Dearing Road intersection.

For reasons yet unknown, a semi truck came from behind the location where Chad and Sara and her parents were stopped, and smashed into the back of their van. Upon impact, Sara's uterus ruptured, and while rescue workers tried for an hour to resuscitate her in transit and at the hospital, Chad believes his wife was gone immediately. The next day he wrote, "I lost my best friend of over 15 years yesterday. She was taken from this earth far too early. Knowing that she is resting in Jesus' loving care doesn't begin to address the emptiness and hurt that I feel today."


At 2:17pm, forty five minutes after the crash, Chad and Sara's beautiful new daughter, with a face as sweet as her momma's, was pulled from Sara's body. Chad and Sara had not yet selected a name, but had a list of their favorites. Chad decided on Miranda Evangelene saying, "The name is the only one that came to my mind, and made sense, and made me feel peaceful." Miranda's name means she who must be admired.

Baby Miranda did not have a heartbeat or brain activity when she was pulled from her mom. Doctors worked quickly to resuscitate her fragile body, and got her heart pumping. However, after 45 minutes of being disconnected from her mother-life-source, with the impact of the accident, brain swelling was inevitable in tiny Miranda. Gazing upon his amazing new daughter, Chad wrote, "My heart is broken. Please pray for Miranda. Please pray for a miracle. She's a beautiful little girl, and she's fighting..."


For three days Chad sat by Miranda and soaked up his beloved daughter, holding her hand as she went through a body-cooling treatment to keep her body temperature low and to try to reduce swelling in her brain. From a quiet NICU after shift-changes, Chad wrote, "I cannot express in words how much it meant for me to be able to hold my precious little girl." And in a letter to her he said, "Daddy needs to be honest with you, I'm selfish. I don't want to think that your going to be with mommy and Jesus is an option. I want you right here. I don't want to ask God for a miracle, I want to demand one. I want Him to feel like he owes me this. [...] I love you, more than I could have imagined."

Miracles continued to be prayed for - by thousands. But sometimes there are bigger plans that we only struggle to understand.

Chad abruptly had to let go of his wife, and best friend, Sara, on Saturday. And last night, with his dear baby Miranda on his chest, he sang his sweet little angel to heaven.


Chad would like to thank each of you who prayed with him, and for him, over these last few days:
I cannot begin to express my gratitude for, nor my amazement at, what has happened over the past three days. Never in my life have I felt so surrounded with love. This has been the worst three days of my life, and yet, at the same time, it has been three glorious days, full of shekinah glory.

As I prepared to hold my darling daughter to my chest this evening, I was terrified that I would break...literally break...into pieces. My fears were unjustified. The hand of God so reached down and touched me, that I was able to sing my sweet angel into heaven. That peace stayed with me while I bathed her. It covered me like a deep blanket of snow while I dressed her for the first time. It kept a smile on my face while we took pictures and I was able to introduce her to her extended families without all those wires and tubes sticking out of her. You are all responsible for that peace.

God's miracle to me was giving me strength beyond my own. Endurance that I could never have mustered. Helping me carry my daughter proudly down long, silent corridors as we approached the gathered family and friends who were singing upon our arrival:

All creatures of our God and King
Lift up your voice and with us sing,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Thou burning sun with golden beam,
Thou silver moon with softer gleam!

O praise Him! O praise Him!
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

Thou rushing wind that art so strong
Ye clouds that sail in Heaven along,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Thou rising moon, in praise rejoice,
Ye lights of evening, find a voice!

Thou flowing water, pure and clear,
Make music for thy Lord to hear,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Thou fire so masterful and bright,
That givest man both warmth and light.

Dear mother earth, who day by day
Unfoldest blessings on our way,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
The flowers and fruits that in thee grow,
Let them His glory also show.

And all ye men of tender heart,
Forgiving others, take your part,
O sing ye! Alleluia!
Ye who long pain and sorrow bear,
Praise God and on Him cast your care!

And thou most kind and gentle Death,
Waiting to hush our latest breath,
O praise Him! Alleluia!
Thou leadest home the child of God,
And Christ our Lord the way hath trod.

I am blessed, truly blessed this early morning.

I do realize that dark clouds are on the horizon. The hurting will not go away, or end, just because today is done. It's 3:45am, and Stevie, our 10 year old cat, is wandering around the house crying for his "mommy." All he knows is that he hasn't seen her in 3 days and misses her. His simple desire to sit on her lap and enjoy a good scratch brings tears to my eyes. No matter how hard I try, I know that I can't provide for him what he'd grown to love and desire from Sara. He sits on the step to the family room, watching me type, and I can see his questions in his eyes, "Where is she? When will she be home?" He occasionally glances at the back door, as if he expects her to walk in any moment.

This house already feels like a shell, an empty reflection of what it once was. I've had this same feeling every time I looked at myself in a mirror over the past 3 days. I just didn't recognize the man who was looking back. He seemed familiar, but not quite the same as what it felt like he should look like.

The only thing that keeps the dark waters of despair and depression from flooding over me at this time is the levy of Christ's love. A levy woven from the fabric of your prayers. While God may not have given me my heart's desire, He has stopped up the floodwaters. He has thrown me a life jacket that keeps me from drowning in the deep pits and pools that Satan would love to pull me down into.

Thank you, one thousand times - one million times, thank you!

O praise Him! O praise Him!
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!

The most trying times for Chad, and Sara's family, will likely be weeks and months from now, when all of the intense pressure from this past week has faded, and fewer people come to offer hugs and prayer and love. It is then, in the stillness, that they will need arms, both divine and human, wrapped tightly around them.

During the month of February, all donations made to peaceful parenting will go to help Chad in whatever fashion he deems wise and needed. He says that they will "decide at a later date, and as a family, how to use the memorial. Sara had many things she loved and was passionate about, so the decision(s) will not be easy." You can give a gift here via PayPal, or use the link URL (below) to copy/paste and share in email or online. Checks made to peaceful parenting this month will be donated to Chad and Sara's memorial fund.

Peaceful Parenting
P.O. Box 1302
Virginia Beach, VA 23451



Sara Cole Memorial Fund
c/o Flagstar Bank
2000 Horton Road
Jackson, MI 49203


Celebrations of the Life of Sara and Miranda Cole

Visitation
Spring Arbor Free Methodist Church
120 E. Main
Spring Arbor, MI

Friday, February 11th
2-4 pm
6-8 pm
Saturday, February 12th
10 - 11 am

Service
Spring Arbor Free Methodist Church (Sanctuary)
120 E. Main
Spring Arbor, MI
February 12th
11 am

Chad would like each of you to know,
I have had many people say to me, write to me, say about me, and write about me, what a great "man of God" I am. I'm not sure I can live up to the bar that has been set.

What you've seen in me over the past few days has little to do with being a strong and vibrant Man of Faith. I am a man who feels like all this world held for him has been stripped away, leaving him standing cold and naked, with two choices: cling to the Rock or let go. I have no choice. I must cling to the Rock. All else is misery, selfish humanity, and destructive despair.

Your prayers have been appreciated. They have helped my fingers hold fast. I will be clinging here for some time to come, and want you to know how much your support has meant and how long it will last.

Thank you, friends,
Chad



Further information see:

Our Little Secret (Chad's Blog)

135 comments:

  1. Oh, Chad. Your girls are both so, so beautiful. With many prayers and outstretched arms,
    The Jameson Family

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  2. Oh my goodness, I am in tears :( I'll be praying for you Chad, and for your beautiful ladies that you so tragically lost. I am so sorry, I can't even imagine how you are feeling. xoxoxoxox

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  3. U are an inspiration Chad. Ur faith, even though u are breaking inside is amazing and it only makes my faith stronger. I am truely sorry for your loss. Your story has touched so many people including myself. I will continue to pray for you for strength and peace in these up coming months and years. God bless you Chad Cole.

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  4. Praying for peace, strength and the simple ability to put one foot in front of the other in the days ahead...thanking God for His promise to NEVER leave you nor forsake you. You will survive this unfathomable loss, brother. Sending love to you.

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  5. This is a beautiful testimony of 3 amazing lives. Chad, our love goes out to you and prayers lift you up.

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  6. This story has so touched my heart, and I have kept this family in my prayers since I first heard the news. Chad, God is with you in the darkest places, suffering with you. He feels your pain and he weeps too, just as he wept at the loss of Lazarus. Please know that the body of Christ is lifting you up on our thoughts and prayers. Psalm 34:18

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  7. A mighty man of God is not just someone who can fight when times are easy but someone who can keep going when times are hard

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  8. Praying for you....your wife & daughter are beautiful. Can not begin to imagine, so I will simply pray. May you continue to feel His presence moment to moment~

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  9. im so sorry for your loss chad may god keep your heart at peace and believe you will see them once again at the gates of Heaven

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  10. No words. I'm sorry. Both your girls are beautiful. I can not imagine

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  11. Oh my goodness...this is the sort of story we just want to believe never happens to people...and yet, here is a man living the reality. My love and prayers go out to Chad as he deals with this monumental loss...truly a story of faith in action. Blessings to you all.
    xo maureen

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  12. I'm crying. I am so sorry for this family and all of the hurt and loss they've been through.

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  13. I can't stop crying, everytime I hear about this story. Truly heartbreaking and I can't imagine his pain.

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  14. May God continue to bring you peace, and hold Sara and Miranda in His loving arms until the day you are all able to be together again. Your story has touched me deeply; I am praying for you tonight.

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  15. I am so so sad, i cannot possibly fathom what you are going through.
    I cried for you all reading this.
    I send you my thoughts, prayers, love & hope for the future, doesn't sound like much but it is all i can say to you.
    xoxoxoxo

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  16. This is heartbreaking. So sorry is all I can say.

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  17. I am so sorry for your loss, Chad. I hope that you will always have those happy memories of you and your wife, and of you singing your sweet angel to heaven in your heart. Please know that even in your darkest hour, you have people praying for you. I can't even imagine how difficult this is. Please take this day by day. Please see a grief counselor, I am sure they will help immensely in your time of need. ((((Hugs)))))

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  18. I followed the group on Facebook throughout Chad's last updates to the one running the group and was heartbroken when the miracle everyone had hoped and prayed for didn't come. He is in my heart, and I hope so badly that he keeps his faith close and can keep walking, one foot in front of the other, one day at a time. <3 Blessed be.

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  19. So much love is pouring from my heart to yours hoping to bring peace, healing and serenity. Sorry doesn't begin to cover the amount of pain I feel for the loss of your two beautiful girls. Know this, you will be reunited with them again, and what an amazing day that will be to look forward to.

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  20. My heart breaks for you...Words fail me at moment like this, but please know that you are in my prayers.

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  21. I can't stop crying. I will be praying for you during this difficult time. "And He will raise you up on eagle's wings bear you on the breath of dawn. Make you to shine like the sun and hold you in the palm of His hand." That line from that song came to me just now and I think that the Holy Spirit wants me to remind you that God is holding you through all of this. He will never take you out of His loving hand. I pray that He will comfort you during this time and wrap His loving arms around you. I pray this in Jesus' mighty, matchless and merciful name. Amen.

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  22. I'm so sorry for your loss, I pray that you and your family will find the strength each day. It will be hard, but take each day minute by minute, until you can do hour by hour. Sending you peace and strength. May God Bless You and all your family and friends, and may your Angels rest in peace with Jesus.
    God Bless <3 Carisa & Family

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  23. My heart aches for you during these trying times. Best wishes to you.

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  24. I can't express how sorry I am for your loss. I commend you for keeping your faith and strength during this horrendously difficult time. Your girls are beautiful. In my saddest and loneliest times the sunlight on my face helped a tiny bit, thinking that the sun is still there, rising and setting, feeling its warmth, perhaps imagining the ones I lost reaching out in the rays, feeling God's healing light. Wishing you some moments of peace in all this turmoil.

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  25. Rest in peace, mother and child, and peace to the family.

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  26. I am incredibly sorry for your tremendous loss. My thoughts and prayers remain with you through this time. Try to keep your head up and remember God has a reason for everything.

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  27. I am believing that you will one day be reunited with your wife and daughter and you will all live in the love of God forever! It will seem as but a moment in time!

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  28. I will continue to pray for you, Chad, to cling to that ROCK, no matter, the deep emptyness you will feel, and the many emotions you will be going through. May God hold you in the palm of his hand, and may you feel it.

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  29. This is one of the most painful stories I have read, and yet it is, as he said himself, filled with so much love.

    Our hearts go out to Chad and his family; may he be reunited with his loved ones where they can be together in peace.

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  30. I have been praying for him since the beginning! He has been in my prayers everyday!

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  31. This breaks my heart. So sad, but at least this poor baby is with her Mama.

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  32. Rest in Peace baby Miranda and Mama Sara :0( You will surely be missed by your family...and your story has touched many lives :0( Prayers for Chad, I can't imagine the pain he is in.

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  33. My prayers are out to you and your family. She is so precious. They are both in great hands with God and watching over you.

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  34. I've been praying everyday for him. My heart breaks for him, that's the hardest thing he'll ever have to endure. I only hope that one day he'll be able to cope & understand God had bigger plans for them & needed them with him & he'll be reunited with them soon♥

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  35. This man is way stronger than anyone I know. Peace be with him.

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  36. We lost our baby girl almost 2 years ago and my heart aches every day. I can't fathom mourning the loss of a partner at the same time. My prayers are with him and I know his wife and daughter are with him too.

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  37. My son just wanted to say that he is very sad the baby died and he really wishes that baby stayed alive. He is also sad the Mommy died.
    :(
    He said that he understands because his Daddy just died too.

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  38. Oh my. How terrible. My thoughts are with all three of these wonderful lives. Here and in heaven :(

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  39. seeing the picture of him holding his daughter, knowing she was passing away and leaving him, causes me to cry uncontrollably...i feel such sorrow imagining how he feels. i have a very strong faith in Jesus and i know where she is, but i feel his heartbreak...and i am so so sad for him. my prayers will continue, and i will always remember seeing that picture, and hold his family in my heart.

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  40. There just aren't words. Sending all my thoughts and prayers to him and all the families and friends impacted by the loss of such a beautiful woman and a precious little angel baby.

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  41. Pictures are worth a thousand words and these say more than my heart can bear. Hurt, pain, loss, grief and yet so full of love and tenderness.

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  42. Today is the first time I could read what he wrote. Bawling. I wish I had the words...but words won't make this better. :'( Hugging my kids a little tighter, and thinking maybe there's some forgiving I need to do...

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  43. Can't stop crying... :( what a strong Godly man who will gain great reward in heaven

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  44. I can't stop staring at baby Miranda's picture with her Daddy! So so sad. Our deepest condolences. May God Bless you!

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  45. My heart is hurting for him...may God keep His hand upon him and the rest of the family.

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  46. Oh my. That was wasn't heart breaking, that was heart wrenching. This story is so well-written, by the way. Very respectful. What a tribute to them all. Praying for peace and love for Chad.

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  47. I don't have the words but the Holy Spirit has the comforting touch, Jesus has the sacrificial love, and the Father has the reaching hand. In the name of Jesus I pray healing and victory for you and your families until the day you're reunited. Keep holding on, it will be worth it!

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  48. I'm @ a loss 4 words @ this time..very sad! But I do wanna say, u are one of the bravest people i've ever come across & I couldn't imagine the pain u r going through. I wish u the best of luck n the upcoming life & will continue 2 pray 4 u & ur family 4 eternity. May god be with u & stick by u through this rough time...much love.

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  49. Sending prayers toward heaven and warm hugs to Chad, family and friends .

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  50. God is with you, Chad. My peace continue to flood your soul. My prayers are with you.

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  51. RIP Sara and Miranda, May God Bless and keep you both in His comfort of eternal Love.


    " Fly" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33Zd8fEsQAk "Dedicated to the brave and courageous parents around the world, who lose a child through poverty, disease, hunger, war, violence, cultural and religious reasons..
    and yet... they never lose Faith!"

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  52. The days will be long and the nights even longer. Chad my heart aches for you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Your angels are watching you from above.

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  53. I first heard your story through friends of mine, Jason & Jill Armstrong. I have followed along your journey via your blog and news reports with a broken heart for the past several days. May God hold you warmly against His heart and bring peace to you as you work through your unfathomable grief. I do not know you personally, but know that you and your family are loved dearly and have (and will continue to be) in my thoughts and prayers. ♥

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  54. We will never know why G-d needed your two angels, Chad, but, as I have known from my own life, there really are holes in the floor of heaven, and your angels will be watching you as you carry them both in your heart, until you meet again.

    May G-d bless you and hold you and your family close, and give you strength to carry on. My thoughts and prayers are with you now and always....
    (¯`v´¯)
    `*.¸.*´

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  55. Chad and family, I have hesitated to write, we are strangers to each other and what could I say after the thousands of posts sent your way, but we are family in Christ and the opportunity is here, Psalm 119:28 My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word. Chad I have prayed, will continue to do so, for you and with you. One day, one breath, one step at a time. Don't let go, keep clinging to Christ.

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  56. Chad, I can't think of any words that would comfort me if I were to have lost loved ones. Hang in there. I know you through PowerSchool and know why you have so much love and support around you. Take care.

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  57. I'm so deeply sorry for your loss....continuing to pray for you and your loved ones. Your strength and faithfulness to God is amazing. I hope you find comfort in knowing that our life here and now is so temporary and one day you will be with your wife and baby girl and there will be no tears, pain or sorrow but only Joy, Love and Laughter. May the Lord give you peace until that day my friend!

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  58. Rest in peace angels.

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  59. God bless Chad. Though we cannot and probably never understand his reasons, I still believe he has a great future planned for you....and you will have a lovely family spear-heading your welcome into the Lord's Kingdom when your time is up. God is great! God is good!! We may never understand him, but one this is for sure. He love us with a limitless unconditional love. Stay strong in God.

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  60. We will be praying for you to find the peace that passes all understanding. I thought of Amazing Grace as I read your story as the author of that hymn lost his family as well.

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  61. Chad although we have never meet, nor have i met your loving wife and child. I have a poem that I feel fits right in with what your wife would love to say. I hope you find confort.

    A Family Prayer
    Our Father in Heavan who's love is devine
    Thanks for the Love of a Family like mine
    And in they great mercy look down from above
    And grant my family the gift of your love
    And all through the year what ever betide them
    Assure them each day that you are beside them
    And Father in Heavan show them the way
    To lighten their task and brighten their day
    And bless their dear heart with the insight to see
    That their Love ment more then the world to me.

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  62. I'm am typing this through my tears and sending out my prayers to Chad, his family, friends and also Stevie, Sara's cat, who is looking for his Mommy. Only God knows why things like this happen, maybe this is why, bringing together so many people in faith, prayer and unconditional love. I hope someday during Chad's healing process, he can read all the posts of love, hope and encouragement from strangers who were touched by the untimely death of his wife and baby. The power if prayer is very strong, and I know God has his hands on Chad now and forever.

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  63. I dont know chad, But i do know this is one of the strongest people i have ever seen. He has been through the most tragic week that not a lot of people experience a tragic loss like this in a life time. I feel for this man as a father to a father. Im so very sorry for your loss chad. you and your family will be in my thoughts forever. RIP Sara and Miranda. God Bless you.

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  64. Chad, C.Herbert and Carlene Fisher, Jim and Kathy Cole, and extended family, May God give you strength today and over the days to come. Know that today as you say "see you later" to God's newest beautiful Angels that all of us here are holding you in our thoughts and prayers. I don't believe in goodbyes, it IS just "see you later". There are no words that can measure up to the pain you all have endured and nothing we say h...ere on this page will come close enough to easing your pain. Only time can do that. As hard as it is to understand, God only gives us what He knows we can handle. May He be with you today and may you feel His arms around you as you endure this difficult time.

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  65. as i sit and read this, i am crying, feeling your pain. i didn't lose a spouse to death, but still lost a spouse of 25 yrs to unfaithfulness and it hurts - i've lost a mother who was so precious to me that I had no one to lean on to morn her unexpected death. I believe you have a large family that will help you through this unexpected time of your life. I so wished that God would allow Miranda to stay here with you but only He knows what is best. Don't turn from God (as i did when my marriage ended, am now back) but let Him help you through this, let Him show you what He has for you. You will have to care for Sara's cat and show it love that she would have given. I do pray that you will be stronger than ever these next several weeks ahead of you. Even now, as I write this, I am crying inside for you, I pray God will lift you up and carry you through all this.

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  66. Never have met you Chad, but that doesnt matter. I'm sending my love and prayers from Alabama to you. I'm so very sorry for your losses. Please do not give up hope. I know it sounds cliche but you have so much to live for. There are no goodbyes. ♥

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  67. Chad this song has a lot of meaning to it for me for two different reasons, I too have lost a child this song brings me comfort I hope it will also for you. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJ55CGEpliE

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  68. First of all...my heart goes out to you and yours at this difficult time. I went to Spring Arbor College while you were there but we never met. You are in my prayers and thoughts...words can't express the grief I feel for someone I've never met. I am hoping that you or someone might message me on fb or to cole.ally@gmail.com...I have received some cards that belong to u (Chad). My husbands name is also Chad Cole and it seems some cards got mailed to us and you should have them. Thank u and God Bless.

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  69. May you find peace knowing that your angels are safe in God's arms! So very sorry for your loss!

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  70. Thank you for sharing this heart breaking story. I add myself to the list of hundreds or thousands sending loving thoughts to Chad.

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  71. This story put me to tears.... But its do good to know you are so faithful to God and such courage to carry on.. I know your wife and.daughter are so very proud of you and although you may not be able to see them they are with you and watching you along this journey..... My prayers are with you!

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  72. thoughts and prayers going out from Arkansas to you. May God's light guide you through these dark times.

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  73. Thank you for sharing the beautiful pictures of your wife and daughter. My heart goes out to you Chad, Sara's parents and your parents as you all mourn the loss of your family. Wishing you peace and everlasting love as you face the days ahead. Again, thank you for opening your heart and love to the world and sharing your "Valentines" with us.

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  74. God bless you. May you find peace and rest in the arms of our sweet Savior.
    The Durso Family

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  75. Chad are heart gose out to you my husband lost are sound it will be one year monday and still sticks with us and we still cry with us it is very hard i know what you are going threw just keep god in you life and just keep praying but i know sometime it don"t seem enough at times i am so sorry keep your head up.

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  76. Chad. I sang my sweet angel to Heaven too. The road ahead is dark AND it is also never without God. I assure you Sara and Miranda are both with you in spirit at every moment. It is not the same, but it is a comfort. You certainly gave your angel a beautiful name. Only time stands between you and holding them in your arms again. Just keep breathing.

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  77. Chad, Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steel.

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  78. My prayers are with you and your family! Your strength is only from God! He is sooooo amazing and will get you thru this! God is going to bless you for trusting Him! In the face of loss and tragedy the hardest thing to do is trust God! Just rest in the comfort and arms of Jesus! It brings such peace and joy!

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  79. Many people from my church are lifting you up in prayer! I just wanted you to know, prayers and thoughts are continuous and have been since last weekend. Much love, Brother in Christ!

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  80. Chad are heart goes out to you my husband and i lost are son i meant to say in the first comment it will be one year Monday and we still cry about it it is very hard i know what you are going threw just keep god in your life and just keep praying but i know sometimes it don"t seem enough at time i am so sorry keep your head up and try to remember the special memory's that you guys shared i did show up for vitiation just to show respect.

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  81. Prayers and best wishes from Tx. The story trully touched the deepest parts of my soul. everything has a reason and way in gods plan , have the gretaest relief your 2 beautiful angels are watching over your blessed soul. And every prayer and best wishes go towards. You and the rest of your blessed life

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  82. Chad ..my deepest sympathy for your loss...many years ago my mother wrote me a poem when i lost my husband and i want to share it with you and hope that someday it will bring you some comfort.

    Perhaps if we could see
    the splendor of the land
    to which our loved ones are called
    We'd understand
    Perhaps if we could hear the welcome they... receive from old familiar voices
    We would not grieve
    Perhaps if we could know
    the reason that they went
    We'd smile and wipe away the tears
    And wait content.

    God keep you in his care.

    irene berbert

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  83. Chad please know that we are continuing to lift you and your family in prayer. I have not suffered a loss like you have, and the idea of what you are going through brings me to tears. I cannot imagine how you are dealing with this. When I was praying about you and your situation the Lord put on my heart a song and specific verses... Jars of Clay's "Valley Song." Specific lyrics that came to my mind were:

    "While we wait, for a rescue, with our eyes tightly shut, face to the ground, using our hands, to cover the fatal cut.
    And though the pain is an ocean, tossing us, around, around, around,
    You have calmed greater waters, and higher mountains have come down.

    I will sing of Your Mercy, that leads me through valleys of sorrow, to rivers of joy..."

    In following your blog the past week, it has been evident to me that you are leaning on God during this time. I encourage you to continue to do that.

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  84. If I stay here at your page much longer, I will be back there 31 years ago... I remember the pain of loss... you can't breathe, sleep or eat- you want to die too. It does get easier, but it takes a lot of time- one thing that you will have difficulty accepting at this moment. So sorry for your losses....

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  85. Although I do not know you Chad, I know the pain of your loss. We lost our oldest son 6yrs ago and the pain is so intense that it is hard to describe but please know this. God also gave His child for us so he understands that pain like no one else will. May he grant you peace and comfort during this difficult time. There is a grief group (when you are ready) www.griefshare.org. Prays to you.

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  86. Chad. We are Mary Ann Shusters parents. Just want you to know our prayers are with you. We had a little girl who went to be an angel 51 years ago. She was our first child also. It is an honor to have a special caregiver in Heaven to watch over us. It is very tough at first but however it is rewarding to have her help us through life...

    May Baby Miranda and your wife watch over you and give you peace.

    Dale & Bette Hendershot

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  87. Our prayers and broken hearts for your loss are sincere. May knowing so many others care about you, help sustain you through the upcoming days. Our God is a God of mercy and compassion. Seek help and direction through trusted friends in Christ. Jesus is a true friend, full of compassion.

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  88. I have heard that in the Jewish culture when loved ones die people pray that the family is not overcome with greif. I don't know how true this is but it is very wise. I pray in the Name of Jesus that you are not overcome with grief, I bind the attempts of the enemy to destroy you, and I loose from heaven all that is needed for you during this time. May you be comforted day by day. God Bless you, and Lord, we Bless You. Jeremiah 33:3

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  89. God only knows that it's not easy or left without pain, but know that your little angel must be pretty special for the Lord to need her now. May God take her under his wings and teach her how to fly! My prayers be with you and your family. God bless you all.

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  90. I am praying for you you and your family. I know there aren't any words of comfort..Trying to live life after losing my daughter has been the most challenging and seems an impossible task for me. So, I know the pain is unbearable. I will continue to pray for your family..May God carry you through this.

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  91. I saw this on my aunt's page and read your story. I will be praying for you. The passion you have for God, even during your sorrow and heartache, is something I long for. May we all be this dependent on God, no matter how good or bad things are going in our lives. God truly has a plan greater than you could ever know. God bless.

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  92. Chad, she is beautiful; she will forever have tiny footprints on your heart. xoxo

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  93. As one who has lost a spouse about 15 months ago my heart was deeply broken for you Chad. I have prayed that the God of all comfort would comfort you right now in the midst of your sorrows. (II Cor 1:3-4).

    May His strong and comforting hand hold you as you walk through this storm. He is so faithful and I know He will carry you. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. If you ever would care to have someone to talk to who has walked this journey too please do not hesitate to contact me on facebook. http://www.facebook.com/Patrick.Byron.Moore

    I have been very comforted and encouraged by griefshare classes this last year. When things settle down I highly encourage you to consider attending one of these. Local classes can be found at www.griefshare.com.

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  94. I wrote a poem for your tiny angel.

    Rest your wings
    sit with me for awhile
    how i long to hold your hand
    and see your tender smile

    tiny angel look at me
    i want this image clear
    that i will forget your precious face
    is my biggest fear

    tiny angel can you tell me
    why have you gone away
    you weren't here for very long...
    Why is it you couldn't stay?

    Tiny angel shook her head
    these thing i do not know...
    But i do know that you love me
    and that i love you so.

    RIP Mama Sara and Baby Miranda, you are in God's hands and flying with the angels.

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  95. You and Your family are in my prayers! My heart truly aches for you! What an incredible little girl! She is soooo beautiful! I pulled my daughter and my son close to me tonight and just cried! I know that time will heal your wounds but in the mean time you have a lot of people praying for you and thinking of you and your family! May god bless you!

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  96. I am so sorry for your loss..No words can express the pain and sorrow you are going through. I had just recently lost my father on 2/1/11 and i would like to share with the prayer that was shared through our family:
    May the road rise to meet you
    May the wind be always at your back
    May the sun shine warm upon your face
    May the rains fall soft upon your fields
    And until we meet again
    May God hold you in the palm of his hand.
    Your family is in my thoughts and prayers...God bless you.

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  97. I'm so sorry for your loss! A parent should never have to feel such a pain and heart ache! I can not imagine how you must feel. I lost my fiance almost a year ago and could not imagine what I would be like to lose one of my sons also! You are a strong person and you are very blessed to have such a strong faith.

    You are giving me strength and showing me how important faith truly is so I thank you for that and I thank you for sharing your heart breaking story with all of us!

    I pray for you to keep your strength and especially to keep your faith. You're right, God only gives us things he knows we can handle & that shows how strong you must be.

    May God bless you and keep you safe! You will be in our prayers!

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  98. Praying for you, although I don't know you. I cannot imagine such a loss. Prayers for you....May God comfort you in this time. May God give you the strength to rise up & give you strength to move on, to be there one day for another that suffers such a loss. May you continue to grow in faith through this most difficult time.

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  99. My heart breaks for you Chad.... Jen and I will continue praying for you and your family..
    -Eric Craft

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  100. I am so very sorry for your great loss. I pray that God continues to bring you peace.

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  101. I am so sorry. Chad, Jesus has a hold of you and He's not letting go. Your Redeemer lives! Even when we're too weak to pray, to think, to know... He's interceding for you and lots of others are too. May your faith in Christ be strengthened even at this time and I pray you will be comforted.

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  102. GLORY TO GOD! We don't always know or understand His will. For ALL that have been touched by this life altering situation, my prayer for you is that God surrounds you with the love and comfort that only He can give. MAY HE BESTOW UPON YOU, THE PEACE THAT PASSES ALL UNDERSTANDING.

    God's Embrace,
    Jennifer

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  103. Chad, there are no words I can really express to add to what has already been posted on here. I just wanted to say thank you for sharing your story and allowing others a window into the depth of faith God requires from us sometimes. Your story reached not only us alumni from SAU but also my cousins in Pinconing, MI and thousands of others. Thank you for the call to prayer and my family will continue to pray for you. I am sorry for your loss and hope that you find happiness.

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  104. A week ago I was driving to see you Miranda ! You were so very sweet - beautiful hands like your mama and aunts, perfect lips that come from your Grandma Fishers side, and cheekbones and the area around your eyes that was so like your daddy. I know that your mama is astounded at your perfection in heaven, just like we were here on earth. We love you Miranda Evangelene!

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  105. WOW. Our God is truly an amazing GOD. What faith this man has. I will pray for him and his family. I will pray that they will continue to find the strength and belief they need on an on going basis. What an amazing and incredibly touching story. Bless you for sharing.

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  106. I can't imagine your loss...I can't think of words to comfort...just know that there are thousands of people praying for you and sending you love! God is good and has a plan.

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  107. May God give you peace in the days to come. You and your family are in my prayers. Thank you for sharing so openly with all of us. Sara and Miranda will not be forgotten.

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  108. My prayers are with you, Sara's family, your cat and every time you have a thought of her and the baby. May God's arms surround you with Love at this time so that you know there is a Reason for you to be here.... sometimes it is years before we know, but hang in there. hugs, michele

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  109. Strength in the Lord, and strength in the love of your two girls... These things I pray for you. You already are graced and blessed with these two things, and we pray for your family and self still. Praise to Him for Miranda to have gotten to feel the love so strong that surrounded her, and to know that love before she was called Home. Many hugs and prayers to you throughout the day.

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  110. A Poem of Hope:

    I feel the arms of God around me,
    as I lay on my bed at night.
    Asleep, I feel the Angel's touch-
    I'm surrounded and held tight.

    I don't know why it is,
    that God should love me so,
    that he would send His only Son,
    to hang there on Death-row.

    He guards me night and day,
    always bringing love and hope.
    Somehow, I know I will survive,
    for He will help me cope.

    As a father has compassion on his child,
    so my Lord has compassion on me.
    I know I can count on him-
    There is nowhere from His love I want to flee.

    by Helena Fehr

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  111. I will never understand the death of a baby. But i believe strongly in the love of Christ. I pray that you and our family find peace and comfort in the love hands of God and know that one day you all shall meet again. at times like this Psalm 23 is comforting because we know we are not alone.

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  112. Your loss is overwhelming... your love is amazing !! May God offer you mercy and strength... Talk to Him... He will hear you !! XO

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  113. Just wanted to let you know we all prayed through prayer request at my church yesterday morning for you.

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  114. Chad, so many people will be praying for you each day, even when the comments subside, remember, you, Sara, Miranda and your families, will never be forgotten. I hope God's love surrounds you and brings you hope and comfort each day.

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  115. My fiance said something rather profound, and slightly humorous that I think fits here. The only reason God takes good people is because he needs them back in Heaven.

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  116. Jacklyn DeCourcy UlrichFebruary 19, 2011 1:59 AM

    We are still praying for you, extended family & the driver, God never let's go. Our prayers & love to you all, you are forever in our hearts.

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  117. Such a beautiful baby. A wonderful gift Now she is safely in her Mothers arms awaiting the day when her family will be complete. I am so sorry for your loss. My heart and prayers are with you.

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  118. I am so touched by this.. I will never forget this. Your two angels are so loved by so many people. We still cry every day over your lose. I am so sorry. Nothing we say or do can bring them back. I only wish can could all cry your pain away. If God gives you only what you can handle then you must be one strong man. You just have to be. Praying for you every day.

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  119. God gives us more than we can handle so that we look to God as our help. He is in control, and He loves us and wants us to know the depths of His love. He uses life situations to show us how much He loves us. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart for He cares for you.

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  120. So sorry for your loss! My heart is filled with awe of your grace. This is a poem some unknow author wrote:
    I have you in my heart and there you will always be as I dwell amoung the angels in peace
    and harmony.
    Pray for strength and courage please do not
    feel dismay, know that you love forever surrounds
    me in his perfect presence today.
    Life is forever changed because now we are
    apart, so until our heavenly reunion,I have you
    in my heart.
    God and the Angels Bless and Comfort you and
    your family. Sincerest sympathies.

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  121. I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I know sorry means little in times like these. god is there, hes not going anywhere and when the waters of despare and sadness seem to be like the tide coming in. You can stand strong and know that the barrier that god has built around you is stronger then ever. Stand in his promises. Please know that im praying for you. And ALWAYS after the rains there is a rainbow of gods promise. Stay strong.

    With all my love,
    Heather

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  122. I wish so much I had a way to make it better... I am so, so sorry Chad. I will hold you close in my prayers. What Heather said above is beautiful and true: ALWAYS after the rain there is a rainbow of God's promise - to carry us, walk with us, wrap his arms around us. He loves you more than any of us can. Lean on Him. He cannot be taken away, and he is holding Sara and Miranda tightly in his other arm as well.

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  123. Dear Chad, may God's peace be with you. I know your beautiful wife and daughter are with my son in Heaven and while the hurt can still be all-consuming, we "do not weep as those who have no hope". We will be together again. Sharing your tears, sending many prayers for you during this time.

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  124. My son went to heaven July 21st, 2007 at 18 weeks 4 days gestation. This story has me sobbing so hard for this wonderful husband and father, he has two beautiful guardian angels watching over him. :(

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  125. Chad...you have done such a wonderful story of your wife, Sara and baby, Miranda. You make me feel like I have known all three of you. It is going to be difficult for a long time. This is something you will never get over and you have the right to remember them. They will always be in your heart. Just keep your faith. As we know God works in mysterious ways. I have had things happen in my life that I am still wondering why, but "Thy will be done". My grandson is in heaven and the truth never came out. My nephew was murdered at 24 with a wife and new baby. His murderer will sit in prison the rest of his life, but it doesn't bring my newphew back. It just destroyed many lifes. I still pray for you and hope God gives you the strength to keep the faith. God Bless You!

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  126. This is one of the saddest things I've ever read. Sorry that this happened to Chad.
    Know that your beautiful girls are at peace now wherever they may be and your faith will pull you through. Gone too soon

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  127. This is SO sad! I will be praying for Chad and his family! They were both truly beautiful! God bless!

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  128. Chad..I am orginally from Mason Mi, and now in NC...your story has touched me deeply...may you be able in the next months and years to continue to feel all the heartly felt good wishes that are directed at you from all over the country...there are no words to tell you how deeply saddened this has made us all...but "they" watch over you and are there with you everyday...please look forward to the future and know that god has plans we mere mortals will never understand in this life time...god bless you and your families

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  129. Dear Chad,

    I just read your sweet letter to your wife on your anniversary - 15 years ago this month - and was once again caught up in an emotional bundle of tears and weeping for you and the beautiful family that was torn apart, and in awe at God's power in your life and your soul, and in all those you touch. What an amazing blessing each of your 3 lives have been to the world. May the love and grace of Christ flow through you for each of your remaining days here as well, until you are also reunited with your girls.

    http://sadandchara.blogspot.com/2011/08/15-years.html

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  130. Still praying for you, Chad. May the Lord be with you. Amen.

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  131. Chad, you are still in my heart and prayers. I often venture to your blog site to catch a glimpse of how you are doing, and it is always amazing to be pointed to God once again through your words. So very many have said it before, but what an amazing man you are. May you somehow have peace that can only come from Him, even 7 months later. http://sadandchara.blogspot.com/2011/09/in-stillness.html

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  132. Chad,

    Your wife and daughter are absolutely beautiful! You have been added to our list of intentions as we pray our daily rosary and I am confident you will see them again in heaven.

    Your strength is miraculous and inspiring. May God always bestow this virtue on you. Praying for you . . . . .

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  133. I WILL SAY A PRAYER FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. Know THAT THIS LIFE IS JUST ONE OF MANY LIFETIMES WE LIVE WITH OUR LOVED ONES. I hope you know they are with you always and watching from heaven. Love to you and your blessed heart.

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  134. My heart is so heavy reading this, and I have tears in my eyes. Thoughts and prayers for this beautiful family...

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  135. Only just reading this and it breaks my heart. I hope you are still living a full life Chad and that you found hope and love in the midst of this tragedy. Sending all my love from accross the Atlantic. xx

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