The 99 Balloons of Eliot Mooney

Once in a while, a life story finds its way into your life; a story that moves your heart and soul in a way that cannot be described.  Such is the story of Eliot Mooney and his 99 days that he lived on this earth. 


One of my colleagues passed this story along today.  And now I am sure that will never be the same. 

Eliot was born with an underdeveloped lung, a heart with a hole in it, and Trisomy 18, a genetic disorder with a very low survival rate.  Diagnosed two months before his birth, doctors predicted that Eliot would not make it to birth.  Defying all the odds, this brave little boy not only survived his birth, he lived for another 99 days. 

Bravery, courage and grace against all odds can come in all shapes and sizes – even in a six-pound bundle of baby joy like baby Eliot.

Eliot’s touching yet short life was chronicled in a video that has been shared the world over.  As of today, more than 3 million people have watched it.  

Then there’s the tribute to his life and that of other special children like Eliot, a non-profit organization called 99 Balloons.  Started by his parents, it is a mission to support special needs children and their families in the Northwest Arkansas community, nationally and throughout the world. 

  

Eliot’s story is one of miracles, and a testament of what God can do when we put your faith in Him.  After Eliot’s passing, Matt & Ginny shared their emptiness, hurt and hope.  They were honest about their feelings of weakness and fear as they tried to put their lives back together.  Throughout this painful time, they relied on God to cast away their doubts and give them renewed strength to glorify God, and to remember Eliot.  

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."

II Timothy 4:7,8

Whether Trisomy 18, cancer or muscular dystrophy, or even a lost job, miscarriage or divorce, God can save us from suffering and heal our broken hearts.  He can give us love and resilience for each new day.

Trust in Him ... and with open arms and tears of joy He will be there to welcome us into His Kingdom