Sunrise in the Darkness
On January 17, 2005, Tajuana and Scott Selby’s lives were changed forever. They gave birth to a beautiful baby girl named Imani Jade. From what everyone could see (including the doctors), Imani was a healthy baby. But after just a few days, Tajuana knew that something was wrong with her child, maybe Imani wasn’t as healthy as everyone thought. This fear became full blown reality as Tajuana and her husband found themselves in the back of an ambulance, racing down the shoulder of the highway in rush hour traffic, holding an oxygen tube to Imani’s nose as they watched their daughter struggle to breathe.
Imani was admitted into the hospital and shortly thereafter was diagnosed with pneumonia. Weeks later, the story and the diagnosis changed drastically. She was now diagnosed with a rare and incurable disease. The family was given a grim outlook for Imani’s future as the doctor’s explained that most cases ended in death. This is just the beginning of a series of loss and hardship, Tajuana and Scott endure in one year. Their struggle continues after their second child, Miles Amir is born that same year. Within twenty-two hours of Miles taking his first breath, tragedy strikes again. From Pediatric Intensive care units, to surgery after surgery and complete devastation this family’s determination to remain faithful, loving and courageous is a testimony that there is no struggle or hardship too great to overcome.
Sunrise in the Darkness is a true story of a family’s journey to save the lives of those closest and dearest to them, as they fight through the depths of the unknown in America’s complex medical establishment. It is a riveting and inspirational story about a family that keeps believing, when no one else does.
Read an excerpt from Sunrise in the Darkness : The Ride to Hell
Read an excerpt from Sunrise in the Darkness : Cardiac Arrest
Reviews
"An emotional roller coaster for anyone who has been or will be a patient advocate for any child with a rare life threatening illness. Beautifully written, this book will take you into the uncensored thoughts and feelings of young first time parents along their courageous journey to save their daughter’s life. This true story is compelling, heart wrenching and spiritual."
Melanie Hale – M.S., LCSW
Director Psychological Services and Personal Counseling
Foothill College
"A gripping and compelling journey that will reach the depths of your soul. It will leave you asking yourself questions that you never thought you would explore." Tajuana has written a pure example of love and the human spirit. I believe that everyone should read this book. It will change you and you will benefit from it, I did.
Alecia Johnson – President of Little Leakers-
Supporting people with Lymphangiectasia
"I recommend this book to anyone working in a critical care environment or any parent who is managing the healthcare of a child. There are important messages delivered in this book and the lessons taught can help many."
Jim Fackler, MD- Associate Professor, Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine
Director, Pediatric Critical Care Fellowship
"A compelling story – For anyone who has ever lost a loved one and had to depend on the strength that only God can provide, this is a story that will change your life. Sunrise in the Darkness is a must read for everyone, no matter your religious preference or belief. Sometimes, only God can provide the relief and comfort that you are looking for."
Dr. Alvin H Steward III, Senior Pastor,
New Beginnings Christian Fellowship Church