When Worship Becomes a Lifeline: Chelsey and Piper’s Story
Moments after Piper was born in 2019, she stopped breathing and was rushed to the NICU. Over the next 31 days, she endured 50 different procedures, while her mom, Chelsey, and dad struggled to make sense of what was happening with their firstborn child.
There, Chelsey learned that Piper had an extremely rare genetic disease called MCOPS12 Microphthalmia, syndromic 12. On the drives back and forth to the NICU, weighed down by uncertainty about Piper’s future, Chelsey kept hearing the song, “Let it Rain” by Crowder (“Lord, I need you more and more”) on BRIGHT-FM. “That song changed my outlook on the situation,” she shared. “I prayed for God’s will and not my own.”
As a new mom caring for a daughter with an incredibly rare condition, Chelsey often found it difficult to open the Bible and read, but the radio was there.
“I was able to listen and have the worship wash over me as I was driving to and from the NICU and even streaming in the NICU for Piper. God met us exactly where we were.”
As she’s grown, Piper has become a guiding light for everyone she meets. She attends the Maryland School for the Blind, where she is learning to read and walk. Music is therapy for her, and the family listens to BRIGHT-FM on their daily drives. One of her favorite songs is “Praise” by Elevation Worship, and weekly dance parties at home are a family tradition!
“Piper can’t walk or talk, but she’s the most amazing child ever. Her smile is as big as the sun. I believe God gave her to our family – and to this world – to shine His unconditional love in a dark place.”
For Chelsey, BRIGHT-FM has been more than just music – it has been a lifeline, offering hope in the darkest seasons and strength to keep moving forward. That’s why she chose to give during last year’s Fall Fundraiser, sharing, “I’m giving for my girls, Piper and Penny. BRIGHT-FM has helped our family in hard times, including the passing of my mom Cindy in February 2024. This station has been such a source of light through the years and God has ordained perfect timing with me listening.”
Today, as Piper continues to shine God’s love, Chelsey sees her gift as part of carrying that light even further.
This ministry wouldn’t be possible without the support of BRIGHT-FM Partners. Listeners who give make sure that BRIGHT-FM is here for you today, and the next generation, tomorrow.
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