Image from Sue Whicker

On July 3rd, 2011 at 6pm, our church will present “A Tribute to America’s Heroes.”  This special program will honor some specific individuals from our church and community who are truly heroic.  To get us thinking about the heroes in our lives several of our blog authors are writing about their heroes.

I have the unique blessing of being married to my hero.  Nicki Simpson is my hero.  Her examples of sacrifice and perseverance are truly heroic.

Nicki’s heroism is most clearly seen in what she has endured for our children.  God has blessed us with four children.  Abigail is four years old.  Esther is two.  We have a son who was born at 15 weeks and is now in heaven.  And, we have another child who is currently growing in Nicki’s womb.

Abi, Nicki, & Esi (Christmas 2009)

In each of her pregnancies, Nicki has suffered from Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), which is “generally described as unrelenting, excessive pregnancy-related nausea and/or vomiting that prevents adequate intake of food and fluids.” (from HER Foundation)  Our pregnancies have included:

• an abruption which resulted in Abi’s premature birth and 12 days in the NICU
• frequent hospitalizations for dehydration
• the insertion of a PICC line and TPN treatment
• costochondritis
• one prescription after another – none of which did any good

What amazes me is to know that she would endure all of this again for our children.

In spite of all the difficulties and experiences we have been through, Nicki’s God-given desire to be a mother has not waned.  God has given her a burning desire to be a mother.  He has also abundantly equipped with the gift of motherhood.  She is an excellent mother to our children.

As I’ve already mentioned, in God’s sovereignty we find ourselves pregnant.  And once again, we are traveling through some unique and challenging experiences. Every day I watch Nicki struggle, I am reminded of the heroic acts she is undergoing in order to bring life to our children.

Nicki is an example to all those who treat motherhood flippantly.  She is an example of one who is willing to make severe sacrifices for another.  Many in our society place little or no value on the unborn child.  The life of Nicki Simpson shouts loudly that the unborn child is to be treasured and preserved at all costs.

So, my wife, Nicki Simpson, is my hero.  I pray that my daughters will grow up to be just like her (minus the sickness).

• Not Your Typical Hero (by Lou Gentry)
• Pioneer Missionaries:  My Heroes (by Jonita Barram)
• Nicki Simpson – My Wife and My Hero (by Stephen Simpson)
• Cher Ami – WW1 Hero (by Lee Dusing)
• D-Day Veterans:  My Heroes (by Jonita Barram)
• More Heroes:  A Truck Driver, A Brazilian Pioneer Missionary, & A Persecuted Pastor