Bella's Gift by Rick and Karen Santorum, with Elizabeth Santorum ~ Review

My Review:

I remember the first time I heard of the Santorum family, I was watching C-SPAN  during the Faith and Family Coalition in Iowa as the GOP hopefuls shared their views on everything from foreign policy to tax reform, and social issues. Mr. Santorum shared stories of his father who came to America with a dream, but the story that touched my heart was the one he shared about Bella. His respect for life at every stage touched me, it was so honest and heartfelt, and his daughter, Bella was living proof of his family's dedication and love. So when I saw that I had the opportunity to read this book, I jumped at the chance.

This book tells not just Bella's story, but the story of how God was preparing them and their hearts to love and defend Bella. Their pain at the loss of their son, and their joy with every one of Bella's triumphs. Told through alternating chapters written by Rick and Karen, this book chronicles the miracle of Bella and how she changed their lives, and touched the hearts of America.

Bella beat so many odds, she was considered "not compatible with life" yet she surpassed every expectation, well beyond the hours she was originally given to live. She is now thriving at seven years old, a miracle. Karen and Rick fought for her life and right to proper medical care many times, loving her unconditionally, thanking God for every day with her.

This is a heartwarming, powerful read, honest, real, that I felt showed a huge part of who the Santorums are and their respect and value of all life. I really loved how they talk about how happy Bella is, and while there are many things she may never do, she brings joy and is living her life to the fullest. An inspiring read, and in depth read about family and unconditional love that I read late into the night and had trouble putting--actually I didn't put it down! Definitely a book I'd highly recommend!



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."