Friday, December 29, 2006

Terran

 


Please visit Terran's Transplant site.  He passed away this past fall and his mom sure could use some kind words and lots of prayers.  She diligently took care of Terran for ten years and now she's feeling kind of lost.  I can understand, though not to the same degree...I still feel like I should be preparing TPN or mixing up some special formula....it's just hard folks.... 


 



St. Petersburg Times


 


 

Saturday, December 23, 2006

Not Enough...

Waiting List Candidates 94,808 as of today 8:40 pm

Transplants January-September 2006 22,016 as of 12/15/2006
Donors January-September 2006 11,194 as of 12/15/2006

--SIGH--

Tuesday, December 19, 2006

The Brave Little Soul



The Brave Little Soul

By: John Alessi





Not too long ago in Heaven there was a little soul who took wonder in observing the world. She especially enjoyed the love she saw there and often expressed this joy with God. One day however the little soul was sad, for on this day she saw suffering in the world. She approached God and sadly asked, “Why do bad things happen; why is there suffering in the world?” God paused for a moment and replied, "Little soul, do not be sad, for the suffering you see, unlocks the love in people’s hearts.” The little soul was confused. “What do you mean,” she asked.” God replied, “Have you not noticed the goodness and love that is the offspring of that suffering? Look at how people come together, drop their differences and show their love and compassion for those who suffer. All their other motivations disappear and they become motivated by love alone.” The little soul began to understand and listened attentively as God continued, “The suffering soul unlocks the love in people’s hearts much like the sun and the rain unlock the flower within the seed. I created everyone with endless love in their heart, but unfortunately most people keep it locked up and hardly share it with anyone. They are afraid to let their love shine freely, because they are afraid of being hurt. But a suffering soul unlocks that love. I tell you this - it is the greatest miracle of all. Many souls have bravely chosen to go into the world and suffer - to unlock this love – to create this miracle - for the good of all humanity."



Just then the little soul got a wonderful idea and could hardly contain herself. With her wings fluttering, bouncing up and down, the little soul excitedly replied, "I am brave; let me go! I would like to go into the world and suffer so that I can unlock the goodness and love in people’s hearts! I want to create that miracle!" God smiled and said, "You are a brave soul I know, and thus I will grant your request. But even though you are very brave you will not be able to do this alone. I have known since the beginning of time that you would ask for this and so I have carefully selected many souls to care for you on your journey. Those souls will help you create your miracle; however they will also share in your suffering. Two of these souls are most special and will care for you, help you and suffer along with you, far beyond the others. They have already chosen a name for you. God and the brave little soul shared a smile, and then embraced.



In parting, God said, “Do not forget little soul that I will be with you always. Although you have agreed to bear the pain, you will do so through my strength. And if the time should come when you feel that you have suffered enough, just say the word, think the thought, and you will be healed.” Thus at that moment the brave little soul was born into the world, and through her suffering and God’s strength, she unlocked the goodness and love in people’s hearts. For so many people dropped their differences and came together to show their love. Priorities became properly aligned. People gave from their hearts. Those that were always too busy found time. Many began new spiritual journeys – some regained lost faith – many came back to God. Parents hugged their children tighter. Friends and family grew closer. Old friends got together and new friendships were made. Distant family reunited, and every family spent more time together. Everyone prayed. Peace and love reigned. Lives changed forever. It was good. The world was a better place. The miracle had happened. God was pleased.




I found this wonderful story over at Molly Grace's Caringbridge site.


Monday, November 27, 2006

Where's Asher??

Well...he's home of course!!



This is a photo of Asher getting ready to leave the NICU!









How exciting for his family! When Asher was born, he weighed 1 lb and 7 oz...the day he left the NICU he weighed a 9 lbs 14oz. That is a miracle! Asher still has to have special care but I am sure his mommy and daddy are perfect for the job! Let's all continue to pray for Asher and his family and let's remember to praise God that Asher is able to live at home with his family!!



Damon Hiett

We shared a room with the Hiett family while we were in Pittsburgh for Gus' transplant evaluation. They are such a nice family...we all left there with the knowledge that our little guys were going to be placed on the national transplant list. When Gus died, for some reason I just assumed that Damon had probably died too. I guess I thought that because the majority of people die awaiting transplant...but...I got a call from his mom the other night and he is doing great! This was such good news! Damon has had a procedure called STEP (this link will take you to a live surgery..if you so choose!) to lengthen his small bowel. His liver is doing great! So if he continues to do well with the STEP and his liver numbers remain good then he may not need transplants! That would be fantastic!! So, let's all pray for this to happen for this little guy and his wonderful family. Hopefully I will have a picture of him soon!!

Bye-Bye

That's what Grayson is saying! Isn't that the cutest little thing....I love when babies start saying words!




Wednesday, November 01, 2006

Prematurity Awareness Month




Visit Gus' Band and create your own so we can help save babies from premature birth!!



Thursday, October 19, 2006

Grayson: Before and After Surgery









Grayson also had another hemangioma removed from his back...









Hip Hip Hooray for Grayson!!!

Tuesday, October 17, 2006

Eat, Monkey, Eat!!




Asher is moving right along...except for the eating thing! He has an occupational therapist working with him now...it's common for little monkies to need help in the eating department...suck, swallow, breathe, suck, swallow, breathe!! Go Chunky Monkey go!! Asher has also been tugging at his tubing and cannula so we need to be praying that everything "stays put"!! He's a wild one!!!

Saturday, October 14, 2006

Grayson is Struggling

Grayson surgery went well but he is not recovering very well. He has been vomitting and dry heaving...sometimes it's bilious (green) and there is some blood. He's had a chest X-ray because his breathing is a little labored...and a stomach X-ray because they are not hearing great bowel sounds. The doctors are kind of baffled..they don't think that these issues are related to the surgery....

So pray for the doctors as you continue to pray for Grayson and his parents.

Remembering Our Babies



Please light a candle on October 15th at 7pm (in all time zones) and let it burn for one hour in rememberance of our babies.




Henry Larsen Doriot


"Gus"


January 18, 2005 - May 31, 2006








Samuel Finn Doriot


January 9, 2004







Madison Elisabeth


August 26, 1996





Emma Cody


January 2, 2006 - July 27, 2006


carepage..type in EmmaCody







Jacob David Paul Misner


May 9, 2006 - June 29, 2006







Grayson Update

Grayson is doing much better now! It looks like he may have a viral infection and as bad as that is...it could have been much worse. I am so thankful that everything is A-ok with his bowel...in all honesty, I was quite concerned about that! So, change those prayers to praises!!

Wednesday, October 11, 2006

Grayson's Going to Cinncinnati!

Tomorrow, Grayson will be heading to the Children's Hospital of Cinncinnati for the surgery to remove his hemangiomas. Please pray for travel mercies, that the surgery will go well and that he has a speedy recovery. Please also pray for Judi and Don, Grayson's mom and dad. His sister Olivia needs prayers too...it's hard when you have a sibling that is going through surgery. I'll update after the surgery...







Here's a picture of the hemangioma on his shoulder that will be removed.



Tuesday, September 26, 2006

I think Asher may have been extubated!!

Asher was supposed to be extubated this afternoon around 1pm. He is supposed to hang out on the CPAP for awhile...he will have been sedated so he can rest and remain calm...and not be wild like the little "Chunky Monkey" he is! lol!! Asher's mom picked up some neat monkey fabric today...she is planning on doing Asher's room in a jungle theme. I am so happy for this family!! Please pray that Asher can make this jump off the ventilator and that they can start making plans for him to go home soon. It's nice when you get to do your growing at home!!

Prayers for Stephanie

UPDATE:



Stephanie's surgery went very well and she is now recovering at home. She will have her bandages changed every two weeks. Thanks for all the prayers for this sweet little girl and her family!!







Stephanie has a rare condition called Arthrogryposis...it is a condition that affects her joints and muscles. This Friday, September 29th, Stephanie will be having surgery to shorten her left leg and to re-align her leg and foot. The natural growth has caused her leg to turn inward and her foot has rotated to the point that she is unable to place the bottom of her foot on the floor. Right now she has the nifty walker that you see above...and let me tell you this girl can fly! This walker has given her great mobility but hopefully the surgery will bring her much closer to walking without assistance. Please also pray for her family as she undergoes this surgery...anyone who has had a child go through surgery certainly knows how stressful it is...and if you haven't had a child go through surgery then just take my word for it!!



Thanks for your prayers and I'll update after surgery....


Thursday, September 14, 2006

Emma's mom and family....

need our prayers right now. It has been 7 weeks since little Emma died and this family is really struggling. Let's all pray that the peace of God will just envelope this whole family as they discover ways to cope with their loss.

Here's an article from the newspaper...

If you feel led to leave a note of encouragement for this family, please do ...I will make sure that they get it. Sometimes it's the little things, like an encouraging word, that make all the difference...

Tuesday, September 12, 2006

Asher Update

Asher seems to be doing really well right now. He does have a little bit of an infection and his lungs have a bit of secretion so he needs some extra Os (oxygen) off and on. Pray that this infection clears up soon and that he continues to do well with his feeds!!

Asher Update

Asher seems to be doing really well right now. He does have a little bit of an infection and his lungs have a bit of secretion so he needs some extra Os (oxygen) off and on. Pray that this infection clears up soon and that he continues to do well with his feeds!!

Monday, August 28, 2006

Emma Cody...Resting at the Feet of Jesus

I just got this update. Please remember this sweet family in your prayers. The hurt is intense and at times unbearable. They will need our continued prayers!

136 July 27, 2006 at 11:39 PM EDT
Luke 18:16 But Jesus called the children to him and said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Jesus called our sweet baby Emma home tonight. Thank you to all of the wonderful people who have been on this carepage time and again, leaving us encouraging messages, and lifting Emma up in prayer. You have been our rock. Now I ask that you continue to lift Jessica, Gracie, and the rest of our family up for the days, weeks, and months to come. We will need your support. Thank you and God Bless You!

Friday, August 25, 2006

Emma Update

I just love this picture...She's watching Baby Einstein!








Emma is still bleeding from her trach and her vent settings have gone up a bit. The really great news is that she has gained 5 ozs!!! Way to go Emma!! I know that doesn't sound like a lot to most people but for NICU babies it's a HUGE deal!! Please continue to pray:




  • that Emma will be able to grow new lung tissue



  • that the bleeding from her trach will stop



  • that the vent settings will not have to go up anymore and



  • that her meds will be effective.


Thursday, August 24, 2006

Asher Update

Asher is weaning down on the oxygen (fondly called O's in the NICU!) and the CMV test came back negative! He seems to be feeling better but still is infected so he's not out of the woods yet. Asher's mom, Heather has made a list of specific prayer requests that I would like to share:

Please continue to pray for the monkey and his infection, blood count, oxygen, and anything else you can think of.
Below are some other prayer requests:
That everything works out with insurance issues with the cars.
That God provides the way and things he knows we need not what we think we need.
Healing for broken hearts.
Strength for my relationship with Adam.
A sense of humor.
Insight into God's will and strength for faith (sense sometimes it is hard to have faith when everything seems to be coming down around you).
We are thankful for all of you. God blessed us greatly when he gave us all of you.
Heather

Sunday, August 20, 2006

Urgent Prayer Request for Asher!

August 23

Asher is still fighting the infections...he seems to be getting stronger and the bleeding still continues to slow down. Please continue prayers for this little guy and his family!!



Asher appears to be doing a tad better. His CT scan showed no abcesses, however, the scan was not a full body scan so that still may be a possibilty. The doctor thinks that Asher may have CMV instead of a Gram Negative Cootie. Both are serious "bugs" to have...so please continue to pray for this little guy. The bleeding from his ostomy has seemed to slow down too and this is great news...hopefully it's a sign that the meds are working.
Asher is very sick right now. He has a horrible infection that has been classified as a Gram Negative infection...these types of infections are really tough on a body. the doctors are still waiting for the cultures to grow out so they will know exactly what this bug is. Then they will be better able to treat the infection. There's a possiblity that Asher has an abcess where this infection is hanging out...if that's the case, then hopefully it can be drained. Gus had several abcesses drained due to the same reason so we know it certainly can be effective. Asher is also experiencing bleeding from is ostomy and this is very concerning. Please pray for this family right now...Prayer requests:That Asher will become infection-freeThat if there is an abcess it can be drainedThat the medicines are effectiveThat the bleeding from the ostomy will stopThat the family remains strong and full of faith and hope

Monday, August 14, 2006

Asher

Asher is doing well and is recovering from his surgery that took place awhile back. His Aunt Laura went to see him and confirmed that he truly is a "Chunky Monkey"...that's his nick name! Please continue to pray for little Asher...pray for his parents too. His mom was in a car accident...she was hit by another car and she's ok...other than the stress of dealing with car issues and having a child in the NICU! lol! What a ride!!



Here's some baby bananas for you Asher!





Thursday, August 10, 2006

Praise God! Asher doesn't have CF!!!

This was posted earlier on Asher's site! I couldn't have said it any better....


Praise the Lord, Asher DOES NOT HAVE CYSTIC FIBROSIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
To celebrate, here is psalm 148:
"Praise the LORD from the heavens, praise him in the heights above.
Praise him, all his angels, praise him, all his heavenly hosts.
Praise him, sun and moon, praise him, all you shining stars.
Praise him, you highest heavens and you waters above the skies. Let them praise the name of the LORD for he commanded and they were created.
He set them in place for ever and ever; he gave a decree that will never pass away.
Praise the LORD from the earth, you great sea creatures and all ocean depths,
lightning and hail, snow and clouds, stormy winds that do his bidding,
you mountains and all hills, fruit trees and all cedars,
wild animals and all cattle, small creatures and flying birds,
kings of the earth and all nations, you princes and all rulers on earth,
young men and maidens, old men and children.
Let them praise the name of the LORD, for his name alone is exalted; his splendor is above the earth and the heavens.
He has raised up for his people a horn, the praise of all his saints, of Israel, the people close to his heart.
Praise the LORD."
We couldn't feel more blessed!
Aside from this exciting news, another important piece of information is that Asher will be transferred back to Mercy tomorrow. Please pray for a good transfer. We are not anticipating another surgery for a while, so we don't have to worry about this. They anticipate him going home on the ostomy, so he can grow bigger and stronger before fixing his intestines. Also, they are not worried about the kidney levels, as they think the levels are off because of nutrition issues. Please pray this is correct and he has happy kidneys!
Also, Asher is up to 70%, which they say he is compensating for the lowered vent settings, but it still makes us a little nervous. Please pray this goes down.
Heather is going to head out to cuddle her little monkey even though she is feeling really sick. She wants to make sure she gets this in just in case she is unable to for a while after the transfer.
THANK YOU SO MUCH for your prayers. God is certainly answering them one by one. We couldn't be more grateful that God has blessed us with such amazing prayer warriors!!
This update was brought to you by ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY!
Aunt Laura, Heather, Adam, Asher, ^Jacob^, and the whole family

Gus' Montage

I've put together a photo montage of Gus. It's a work in progress but I wanted to share anyway...




Henry Larsen Doriot


"Gus"

Tuesday, August 08, 2006

Neat Videos From Aunt Laura

Just click the pictures to go to the videos. I think these are really good for people to see what it's like in the NICU. I wish we had thought about doing this with Gus! Great idea...and thanks for sharing Aunt Laura!!

















Thursday, August 03, 2006

Carter....Gus' newest friend in Heaven

Please lift up this little fellow's family as they grieve the loss of their precious child. Though Carter was a sick little guy, he had a true zest for life. He touched everyone that met him...he and his family have been a real inspiration to many people. You can read more about Carter by visiting his Caringbridge site . Carter's story is amazing...he was a true warrior here on earth. Now, he's receiving his much deserved rest and healing! When you visit his site, please leave a note for his mom and dad...they are amazing parents and I'm sure they would appreciate your encouraging notes!





Carter having fun at a pool party!













Here's Carter playing on the playground at football practice




Prayer Vigil Friday, August 4th at 9am





UPDATE:


Surgery went well!!






Meet Asher!! Asher will be undergoing exploratory abdominal surgery tomorrow at 9am. Please pray throughtout the day for this little guy and his family. This is a list of prayer requests from Asher's website:







  • For God to guide the hands of the entire medical staff as they perform the surgery


  • -Asher's strength for the surgery

  • -The problem to be found easily, to be a simple problem and easy to fix

  • -NO COMPLICATIONS

  • -For Asher to be able to handle the conventional vent well during the time he is required to be on it.

  • -Asher's lungs to not be compromised in any way. If they are, for it to be minimal.

  • -For Asher to be able to switch immediately back to the bi-level vent after surgery

  • -Strength for the whole family and all who love Asher, especially Heather and Adam

  • -And pray for anything else you can think of! :)





To read more about Asher and his twin brother, Jacob, who is now in Heaven, point your cursor to Asher and Jacob . Be sure to leave an encouraging note for the family!!










Monday, July 31, 2006

Emma

Pete and I went to the receiving of friends for Emma last night. Everything was just beautiful...perfect! Emma looked just like a little doll. She was wearing a white dress and she had the Peace of the Lord on her face...so sweet! What a blessing she has been to her family...and what joy we'll experience when we all met up again...Emma, Gus and the families!!

Friday, July 28, 2006

Arrangements for Emma Cody


Emma Faye Cody




b. 1-2-2006

d. 7-27-2006








Receiving friends Sunday evening, July 30, 2006, at Farrar's Funeral Home Chapel, Jefferson City, from 6:00-8:00, services to follow at 8:00 p.m.

Interment on Monday, July 31, 2006, at 11:00 a.m., in Economy Cemetary, West Economy Road, Morristown.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that donations be made to the

Emma Cody Benefit Fund at Community National Bank in Jefferson City or Morristown, or mail to P.O. Box 1919, Morristown, Tn. 37816,

Bill Pearson, Treas.

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

Emma has pneumonia...

so please pray that this will clear soon! Continue to pray for her family too...this is certainly a long roller coaster ride and they especially need prayers and encouragement.

Samuel Travis Lewis

Samuel was born several days ago. He has a hole in his heart that needs to close...I think this may be a PDA but I'm not certain. Gus had a PDA that reopened after his first bout with sepsis and he had to have his closed surgically. As of this morning, the doctor feels like Samuel's hole has closed...further testing will show if that has happened. Please pray for this little guy and for his family too...I know the terrified feeling you have when soemthing is not "right" with your child! I imagine his mommy and daddy are quite worried....

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

Grayson Update

Look at this big boy sitting up on the couch! He is a real cutie!!






Grayson has been a little fussy here lately but other than that he is doing well. I did get an e-mail from his mommy saying that she may have a sitter for him...I need to check back with her to find out if this is going to work out. That would be a praise if it does...moms and dads need to get out!!



Please continue to pray for Grayson:





  • that his shoulder will continue to heal and not be so painful



  • that his reflux will not be so hard on him


Tuesday, July 18, 2006

Praise Items For Grayson!

Grayson had a really good visit to the dermatologist! He cried just a little bit when his hemangioma was cleaned but after that he calmed down. Also, Grayson's mom ran into a cousin that has offered to babysit Grayson!! I'm so excited for this family!!

I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. (Psalm 34:1)

Sunday, July 16, 2006

Long Over Due Update on Emma

Emma continues to hold her own. She has had a broviac line placed so the doctors and nurses can give her meds without having to perform so many sticks. This will be good for Emma. The surgeon was concerned at first, but went home, thought about it and returned to successfully place the line!

Here's a quick list of prayer requests for Emma:

Broviac will remain open and working and infection free
that Emma can be weaned of the paralytic med
that Emma can start eating again so that new lunf tissue will grow
that Emma's mom can remain encouraged and continue to be a wonderful advocate for her daughter!

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Continued Urgent Prayer Needed!!!!

From Emma's CarePage:

July 11, 2006 at 11:31 AM EDTemma is still very sick her o2 will not stay up (it is going in the teens at times and staying there even when they bag her) all dr bucheitt said today is that he is very concerned and that this is the sickest she has ever been please pray for emma

Monday, July 10, 2006

URGENT Prayer Request for Emma!!!

This was just posted on Emma's CarePage site:

from Nana (Carole) Emma has had a VERY bad night....I got here at 10:30 last evening and she was desating into the 20's and 30's. The doctors and nurses would work with her and she would get better for a while and then her stats would drop down again. We called Jessica about 3:30 this morning and she took Gracie to Bapa (David) and came on down. The doctors are continuing to work and try to help her...they have tried different types of ventilators and oscillators, and lots of different meds. She is now on the ventilator and Nitric. They have started antibiotics, and checked her blood gases just about hourly. The doctor came by right before I came out to update the carepage and said her last blood gases looked a little better. I would like to ask everyone to please intercede for Emma, Jessica and the rest of the family today and pray for God to give each one of us the strength to carry on. AGAIN, A HUGE THANK YOU TO THE DOCTORS, NURSES, RESPITORY THERAPISTS, AND ALL OF THE OTHER WONDERFUL PEOPLE WHO WORK IN THE NICU. YOUR DEDICATION, SUPPORT, AND CARING ARE WONDERFUL. Please excuse any typos....it has been a long night. Thank you for your prayers, notes of encouragement, and all of the other wonderful outpourings of love you have given us.

Thursday, July 06, 2006

Grayson Update

Grayson has not had a good day....his visit to the dermatologist to take care of his hemangioma resulted in three hours of crying...for him and probably for his mom too!! Let's surround this little guy with lots of prayer...let's ask God to heal this hemangioma so Grayson is not in so much pain. Let's also pray for a babysitter for Grayson so errands can be ran...and dates can be taken, etc. This is not an easy life folks but these kids are such blessings....Grayson's mom is certainly aware of this!!

Emma Update

Emma went through her trach surgery and all went well. They are letting her slowly gain strength in her lungs and not worry so much about weaning off the vent quickly. Emma is now 6 months old!! She may be moving to a less noisy part of the NICU...I think she and her mom will like that a lot. We enjoyed staying back in that corner when Gus was in the NICU. Please continue to pray for Emma and her family....6 months in the NICU is a loooooooooong time!

Wednesday, July 05, 2006

Congratulations...

to Grayson! He no longer is on the apnea monitor! This is great news and a huge praise item. Continue to pray for Grayson as he visits the dermatologist tomorrow and the rehab doctor on Friday. I know one less appointment is wonderful for the whole family!! I'm so tickled for the Ledfords'!! You can visit Grayson's Carepage site at www.carepages.com then type in graysonledford.

Monday, July 03, 2006

Urgent Prayer request for Emma

Emma is not having a good day. Her ventilator settings are high...her lungs need to be getting stronger. Please pray that God will heal this sweet little girl's lungs. Pray also for her mom...it is so tough seeing your child so sick.

Meet Grayson!

Isn't he just the cutest little fellow?? He looks so squeezable!! Grayson is a "26 weeker" who started out weighing only 1 lb. 12ozs.!! Preemie babies quite often experience a lot of different complications...Grayson is no exception. Reflux has been an issue for Grayson and he and his family need prayers for his healing. There's a lot of "work" that goes into taking care of a baby with reflux...there are several different medications and usually a gazillion different formulas have to be tried. Grayson's mom is dedicated to taking excellent care of him but I know from experience that this lifestyle can be quite tiring...so prayers for Grayson's mom would be nice too!! He also has a hemangioma which can be very painful...pray also that this heals soon.








Grayson's Prayer List:





  • Reflux situation alleviated



  • Hemangioma healed



  • Rest and Peace for Grayson's family




Here are some links about hemangiomas:



http://www.healthline.com/adamcontent/hemangioma



http://www.umm.edu/ency/article/001459.htm




Thursday, June 22, 2006

Emma Update



Please remember to pray for little Emma and her mom. Today she was able to jump off the ventilator for a short time. She was not able to breathe well so now the doctors are talking about a trach. My heart really goes out not only to Emma but to her mom too. It is so hard seeing other babies around you getting better and going home...sometimes to parents who do not seem fit. It reminds me of something my dear mother-in-law always said..."There ain't much fair in this ol' world." Boy...that's the truth!! So, when you are praying for Emma, please remember to pray for her mom too.

Monday, June 05, 2006

Welcome!

Welcome to our new blog! Pete and I hope that you will visit us often and check out what Gus' Gang is doing. We are excited about this ministry and we look forward to encouraging families with chronically ill children. If you know of a family that you think needs to be encouraged by Gus' Gang please let us know!

Take a look...

at sweet Emma Cody!






Emma has set up residence in the East Tennessee Children's Hospital NICU...she's been there since January 2, 2006! She is a micro-preemie and is loved dearly by her family and her nurses. Right now Emma needs prayers for her lungs to heal, for her fundo to work and for protection of her bowels. Please also pray for Emma's big sister, Gracie. Times like these are very hard on siblings...let's shower this precious family with prayers!!





I'm a sucker for sucker pictures!!




Thursday, May 25, 2006

Five for Friday...Grayson

Here's five pictures of the always cute Grayson! Grayson has been doing well lately...not so fussy. He has had some meds changed and this seems to be making a huge difference. Please continue to pray for Grayson and his family...they are still dealing with his hemangioma.






Look what a big boy Grayson is...holding his head up like that!!






OK...so who doesn't want to scoop this little guy up and cover him with "sugars"??





I wonder if Grayson's big sister Olivia was around...I bet so because he's got a good grin going!!





This is Grayson's hemangioma. You can see why it would be tough to deal with...nonetheless, he and his mom are troopers and they are doing what's necessary to make him comfortable. He continues to have laser treatments for the hemangioma...surgery may be necessary in the future.






Judi....Thank you so much for allowing me to post pictures of Grayson...it is a privilege to do so! Grayson's mom and dad have entered the blog world with their very own blogs...go visit them when you can!



Mommy of Two



That's No Hill For A Climber

Saturday, May 20, 2006

CURRENT WISH LIST

Fabric…scraps or yardage, does not need to be kid prints.
Tea sets…for children. We’ll be sending these to siblings.
Cards…happy, encouraging cards!
Volunteers to help cut fabric
E-mail me if you can help us out with any of these requests and I'll get back with you concerning a "pick-up" place and time!

Thanks in advance!

Prayer for Emma




Isn't this such a sweet picture of Emma sleeping! She is such a doll...I would have a hard time not "squeezing" her!! (((((Emma))))).....sending hugs your way!!



We need to say extra prayers for Emma's tummy right now. She also has gone back up on her vent settings and is taking a bit of steroids...pray that these steroids will do their job and led Emma to healthier lungs!



Here's a quick list:




  • tummy issues resolved



  • be able to wean on vent settings



  • that the steroids will be effective



Wednesday, January 18, 2006

The Strength of an Egg

I found this story over at Lisa's CB site.




The Strength of an Egg


by Juliet Freitag




Parents of children with cancer, or really any serious condition, are often referred to or viewed as having strength "like a rock." Albiet flattering,it isn't quite true. It is more like the strength of an egg. An egg, you ask? Yes!



If you'll think about it, you'll see my point. An egg has a polished, smooth outer appearance, with no cracks or weak spots visible. It seems almost inconceivable that the inside might not be so smooth or solid.



Most children, at some point are shown the famous egg trick. An egg set at just the right angle can withstand enormous amounts of pressure and cannot be cracked or broken. Yet the same egg, tapped gently at an ever slightly different angle, will break. The contents, once so neatly concealed, will come spilling out. The no longer perfect shell will be crushed. It looks so fragile that it seems inconceivable that it ever held any strength.



A rock, on the other hand, is solid all the way through. To break it is almost impossible. If you succeed, you will find that there is nothing inside but more rock.



It takes a lot more than pure hardness to hold the hand of hope. Parents of [medically fragile] children are not solid all the way through. We hurt, we fear, we cry, we hope. It takes a very careful balancing act to keep the shell from being shattered. "Balancing an egg" while running a household, going for doctors' visits and hospital stays, keeping the family together, and holding on to the constantly unraveling ties of your sanity can be very tricky indeed! Occasionally, the angle will be off and the shell will break, shattering hope and all the neatly secured appearances of a truly fragile existence.



Unlike Humpty Dumpty, though, parents of [medically fragile] kids will pick themselves up and put themselves back together again.