Weathering the storm
Published:Thursday | June 4, 2015 | 12:00 PMGareth Davis Sr
NORWICH, Portland:
The death of her five-year-old daughter was a hard pill to swallow for Paula Muirhead, a dedicated Christian and mother, who also questioned God's plan of salvation, during her weakest moment.
The mother of four, who became a baptised Christian more than a decade ago and is a member of the Open Bible Church in Port Antonio, recounted how everyone was excited about the birth of her daughter, Malkia, who was the latest addition to the loving and caring family headed by husband, Michael Muirhead.
But about a year into Malkia's birth, while the excitement and attention were centred around the baby, the worst possible news emerged. Malkia was diagnosed with Wilms' tumour, which started to affect her kidney.
"It came as a shocker," commented Muirhead.
made to suffer
"She was made to suffer for four years, and although I never doubted God, I questioned the reason behind her passing. I know what God is capable of, and He could have saved her. The frequent trips to the University Hospital for radiation and chemotherapy were costly, but with fervent prayer and support from church members, family, and also members of the Island Special Constabulary Force, we managed to cope. Our family pressure and strain were further compounded by my youngest son's illness, as he was diagnosed with cancer of the eye," she added.
Malkia's condition was described by her mother as having a rising tummy with what appeared to be a ball growing inside.
Muirhead was forced to cope with the chronic illnesses of two of her children, simultaneously. But according to her, though challenging, the close-knit connection with Jesus Christ was more than an inspiration, and that was enough to keep her going.
Malkia passed away after her surgery in 2013, four years after she was diagnosed with Wilms' tumour, while her 12-year-old brother, Antwaun, had his right eye removed. He is coping well at a primary school, despite having to wear a patch over the eye.
Muirhead said, "The Lord spoke to me about love and especially his undying love. I am a firm believer, as God is my provider. He opens windows of opportunities and He is still in charge. My daughter's passing has made me stronger, and I have since learned to deal and cope with real life issues - knowing that I serve a God who will never forsake me."