Born with a cleft lip and cleft palate on February 18, it was immediately obvious that Ella was a precious little blessing that would be needing special love. Her big sisters Audrey (3) and Lauren (2) dote on her and cousins Sam (9) and Alex (6) take turns holding her whenever they're able. It's a special team.

Our family has been fairly open when we've had our struggles. It has been our belief that being honest and asking for prayers and support are good things. We have felt your love.

In that light I have asked permission of our son and daughter-in-law to show you before and after photos of beautiful Ella Grace.  The "Before" photo was taken May 8, just a few days before her cleft lip surgery.  The "After" photo was taken October 25, just 9 days after more involved cleft palate surgery.

Both operations were performed by Dr. David Genecov, Surgeon, and his team Dr. Elizabeth Sperry (no relation), Speech-Language Pathologist; Dr. Jeff Genecov, Orthodontist; and the amazing staff at Medical City Children's Hospital. They continue to serve little Ella's every need.  All of us in the Sperry and Hepler families would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to that incredible team for helping this beautiful little girl become even prettier.

Click here to see the miracle before and after her surgery.

None of us is dealt a perfect hand in life.  It has been enriching to my wife Lynn and me to watch our son and daughter-in-law nurture this wonderful little child – these children.  We have learned more as grandparents than we ever taught as parents.

God works in glorious ways.