Memorial Soccer Tournament to be held in honor of Baby Pierce

This is a post from Leah Helms's blog that I wanted to share. You can also read about Leah's story in the Jackson Free Press article I posted some time ago, as well as see the memorial video I posted prior to this one. I watched Matt Hammitt and his family with son Bowen on the news tonight, and it made me think of Leah. Matt said "turn your pain into purpose," (which I think will be my new favorite quote) and that is just what Leah is doing. If you'd like to follow Leah on her journey, please check out her blog. You can find the link on the side bar. God Bless! Megan



Baby Pierce











Well, I know many of you are wondering how Pierce has anything in common with soccer. I laugh and think back to the weekend before he was born. My oldest had a soccer tournament that weekend. I was so determined to walk myself into labor on those fields in my brown and pink water boots. We were there until 10 p.m. that Sunday night. Our soccer team won 1st place and we were waiting for our medals. I never dreamed the next morning that I would be preparing myself for a c-section or the condition of Pierce's heart at the time of his birth. My other four children were normal fast deliveries and they were all healthy and well. I learned through that day to not take it for granted, my other children's health.

We live in the soccer fields and I often imagined what it would be like after Pierce was born, caring him in a back pack, as I walked up and down the sidelines yelling at the girls.

We have since returned to the soccer fields after coming home. I have been working with Brandon Soccer League to host a Memorial Soccer Tournament. The thought makes me smile and feel proud, but the other side of me cries. I never though that we would be hosting a "Memorial" tournament. I think back before Pierce was born and how I worried and wondered how I was going to get all three boys to the soccer fields and just yet alone feed them. Three boys,...that's A LOT of food!!

God blessed me in more ways then I can even try to share with you. Pierce was here for a reason. I have connected with so many new friends and People through him. God has continued to bless me and guide me through Pierce's Legacy. Brandon Soccer League is hosting a Soccer Tournament for my little Pierce. This year, all proceeds will go to the Mississippi Mended Little Hearts. This group of moms reached out to me in the very first week while we were in Washington D.C. They continued to reach out to me while we were in Little Rock and then upon coming home. They held a food drive for my family once we made it back and have continued to bless me with hope, encouragement and friendship. I want to give back what they have giving me during and after my journey with Pierce.

So, how does Pierce and Soccer go together? Through Pierce and our love for soccer, and the Brandon Soccer League.This event will be a great way for people to learn more about CHD and the Mississippi Mended Hearts. Children will be playing for a cause to help other children and families with CHD. With God's help and Him guiding each of us, this will be a wonderful event that will touch peoples heart and make them aware of Congenital Heart Defects.

Please share this event with your friends and families.