Welcome to Tennessee

Owen and Emma Russell’s lives were celebrated with their baptisms on Sunday, May 27. Rev. Dan Moore of Broadway United Methodist Church officiated. Those attending were witnesses to the power of prayer because two miracles were being baptized before them.

Robert and Patsy Russell of Savannah Park, Maryville, welcomed their twin grandchildren to Tennessee for the first time on Memorial Day weekend. Daughter Betsy and her twins live in Toledo, Ohio, where Betsy is the marketing and production
manager at Fox Toledo TV.

While the twins are doing well now, all was not the case on Nov. 13, 2006. During a routine pre-natal doctor’s visit, Betsy was diagnosed with preeclampsia. This was bad news for Betsy’s health but especially for the unborn twins. Owen and Emma were only 26 weeks along.

Doctors made a quick decision to deliver and didn’t give Emma much of a chance to survive. She was just so small.
Fortunately, Betsy and the twins were already on many prayer lists. A call went out to Broadway Methodist, other churches, family, friends, and friends of friends (including some overseas) to pray for Owen and Emma.

These miracle babies were born at 1 pound, 14 ounces (Owen) and 1 pound 2 ounces (Emma). It was critical at the beginning, with breathing problems and several blood transfusions each.

Owen underwent three major surgeries in the first month. Emma continued with lung development and growth issues.
Owen came home after three months. Emma came home a month later. Each weighed a little over five pounds when they came home from the hospital.

Prayers continued.

Because of Emma’s need for oxygen after departing the hospital, she developed acinetobachter virus and had to go back to the hospital for two weeks for intravenous antibiotics.

Fortunately, they both received the most wonderful medical care by doctors and hospital staffs through it all
Owen now weighs 11 1/2 pounds while Emma tips the scale at a heavy 8 pounds.

God continues to bless the miracle babies and the Russell family. The Russells want to thank everyone who prayed and
helped Owen and Emma reach this day. Your continued prayers are still needed.