Abigail Laura Ledford (Abbi), 26, entered into eternal life on January 3, 2025 – awaiting her new resurrection body at the restoration of all things in the new earth (Matthew 19:28; 1 Corinthians 15; 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1-4). Her earthly body was subject to significant ailments stemming from Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) including three vascular compressions: MALS (median arcuate ligament syndrome), NCS (nutcracker syndrome), and SMAS (small mesenteric artery syndrome) for which she had multiple major surgeries. Unfortunately, they did not restore her body’s ability to receive life sustaining nutrition or to regulate fluids, but did relieve the compressions that were occurring. She also had POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), MCAS (mast cell activation syndrome), Chiari malformation, and other conditions too many to name here. Her resurrection body will be free of all these things. Her season of suffering in this fallen world has now ended; her eternity of joy in the risen Lord has now begun. Our grieving continues, but we do not grieve as those who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
Abigail was born in Chambersburg, PA and enjoyed her childhood years in Curwensville, before moving to Butler, and finally to Coopersburg, PA. Abigail was selfless in caring for others above her own needs. Her ability to find the perfect gift was a testimony to her investment in knowing and loving others. Her endless creativity found outlets in many forms that changed as her abilities did. She had a relentless positive attitude, and ownership of this illness, often saying – “this is simply my burden” – acknowledging that everyone has their burdens, and hers was no more or less than others. She was an encouragement to others with her illness but was adamant that it did not define her. She will be dearly missed by her family, her friends (especially her “Flickerfly” community), and many of the medical professionals who played a part in her care. Abigail impacted everyone around her with profound kindness, perseverance, and maturity.
Abigail is survived by her parents Dan & Jen, her sisters Noelle and Rachel (Danny) Stone, her grandparents Carolyn Ledford and Rick & Bev Ratcliffe, and her Aunts & Uncles and Cousins. There will be nieces and nephews who never have the privilege of knowing Auntie Abbi, but her legacy will certainly be carried forward.
Words cannot begin to express appreciation to the nurses, doctors, aides, pharmacists, hospital staff & volunteers who have been part of this journey. We are also grateful for the support of other families in the EDS et al patient groups. We especially give thanks to our family, friends, and church family for your outstanding support.
Abigail’s earthly body will be buried in Historic Easton Cemetery with a Memorial Service taking place sometime in the spring of 2025. As with most things, Abbi thoroughly researched where she wanted her final resting place. We were delighted to find so many things that brought joy to Abigail, and look forward to filling her space with cherry blossoms and hope.
The last enemy to be destroyed is death…So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power (1 Corinthians 15:26, 42-43).
Online condolences may be offered at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com. To help support Abbi’s family’s needs go to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-abbis-memorial-and-family-needs.
