Written by: Ms. Latevia Williams
We have all experienced a form of ‘sudden storm’ in our lives – some expected, some unimaginable. For the David family of the First Assembly of God, Wortmanville congregation, that storm manifested itself in the diagnosis of a medical condition affecting the heart of their youngest son. Through the shock, pain, uncertainty, and fear, their unwavering faith in God stood as their anchor, and their testimony now stands as a beacon of hope to others experiencing their storm.
The David family consists of seven members: father, Deacon Julius David; mother, Sister Kacy David; and children, Kyra, Kayla, Kaden, Jaden, and Janayla David, respectively. Almost immediately after the birth of their youngest son, Jaden, the Davids noticed some unusual reactions whenever he cried. These were shortness of breath and discoloration around his mouth.
“Advice from our friend Dr. Kezia Lee empowered us to visit the hospital, and we obtained answers about the symptoms from the Baby Heart foundation, which was coincidentally visiting Guyana at the time.” Coincidence or Faith?
At six months old, little Jaden was diagnosed with Tricuspid atresia, a rare and serious congenital heart defect, meaning the condition is present at birth. It is an ailment in which the tricuspid valve between the right atrium and right ventricle fails to form properly. Instead of a functioning valve, a solid sheet of tissue is formed, which blocks the flow of blood from the right atrium to the right ventricle. This often results in the right ventricle being underdeveloped, affecting the normal flow of blood to the lungs to pick up oxygen.
Additionally, Jaden’s heart is on the right side of his chest rather than the left side.
At eleven months old, Jaden underwent his first open-heart surgery. “And to God be the glory, he is still here with us” – Sis. David. Based on the diagnosis of Jaden’s condition, he was recommended for two heart surgeries. At eleven months old, he successfully underwent his first open-heart surgery. This procedure was to allow more oxygen to flow to his heart. The second one is to replace his heart with one more suitable for his age(size), since more oxygen will be required to remove carbon dioxide from his heart as he grows. ‘But, we believe with our persistent prayer, being the reason, we often hear from the doctors that the second surgery isn’t urgent.” – Deacon David. ‘And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28, NKJV)
Deacon David explained that the testimony isn’t about healing, but rather, what God has caused to be put in place to ensure that Jaden is still alive. He utilised doctors who were able to advise the family and successfully perform the first surgery.
Jaden David is now seven years old, and like a child at his age, he’s vibrant and full of life. He runs, plays, and worships by God’s grace.
The David family’s journey chronicles God’s work and timing. May their story remind us all that faith doesn’t mean the absence of struggle – rather, it means choosing to believe in God’s goodness, even when the outcome is unclear.
Psalms 112:7 (NLT) aptly represents the Davids: “They do not fear bad news, they confidently trust the Lord to care for them.”