Anna’s Army
a true story of rebirth and transformation
by
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Sometimes we pray with desperation, with hope, with every ounce of faith we have—and yet, the answer we long for doesn’t come. It’s one of the hardest parts of faith: praying and feeling like God is silent. Why wouldn’t God give us what we’re asking for? Why would a loving Father allow suffering to linger or healing to wait? These are the questions that can make some people lose their faith. But the Bible reminds us: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future,’” Jeremiah 29:11. Sometimes we don’t see the full picture. But God sees it all. While I was on my knees begging God for Anna’s healing—for restoration, for a miracle, for the perfect set of lungs—Anna was quietly praying a very different prayer. She was asking God to take her home. She had suffered so deeply, and the pain was so intense. To her, Heaven felt easier than holding on. She didn’t tell us at the time, but later I found out—she had been asking God to let her go.
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About the Book
Anna’s Army is the true and deeply personal account of a mother’s journey through every parent’s worst nightmare. When sixteen-year-old Anna suddenly faced a life-threatening medical emergency, her condition rapidly escalated, placing her on the most advanced forms of life support and the lung transplant list. What followed was a harrowing and faith-filled journey of uncertainty, heartbreak, and hope. Told through the eyes of Anna’s mother, this story is not only a testament to the resilience of a young girl but also a powerful reflection on the strength of a family, a community, and a mother’s unshakable belief in the power of prayer. Anna’s Army is a story of courage, love, and unwavering determination in the face of unimaginable odds.
About the Author
Erin Shaffer is a first-time author who shares the deeply personal and true story of her daughter’s medical journey in hopes of encouraging others facing their own challenges. Writing this book was a labor of love—born from grief, faith, and the desire to offer hope to those walking through difficult seasons. Outside of writing, Erin finds joy in spending time with her family and friends. She also has a deep love for animals and enjoys the peace and freedom she feels while spending time with her horse and riding.