BIRMINGHAM

THIS is home for us...

THIS is UAB (University of Alabama at Birmingham) and Children's Hospital here in Birmingham.  It has become our second home lately and will be for many months to come. 

DJ and I had our appointment this morning with the pediatric cardiologist to take another close look at Dade's heart.  We met with Dr. Robb Romp who couldn't have been more thorough and comforting.  DJ and I have been truly mesmerized with each level of care we have needed and the physicians we have met week after week.  Just when you wonder what the next one will be like or if they are a good "fit" for us, we are once again reaffirmed that we can't be in better hands and how blessed we are to be right here in Birmingham.  I have been in touch with two other CDH Mothers that have been so helpful, supportive, encouraging, and good resources.  One of the mothers was also in Birmingham with her son and had the same surgeon we do. Comparing scenarios and having specific questions about the hospital, NICU, doctors,  etc, has been very helpful.  Dr. Romp felt good about what he was able to see with Dade and stated that when he is born, they will do another full assessment of his heart, but at this time, there are no concerns.  He shook our hands and told us that he would be thinking of us and praying for us until Dade got here.  I had a true peace going to our visit today, but his attitude, confirming report, and generous comments, left me feeling so grateful.  We have a severe and scary diagnosis. We know the fight that we are up against, but having the physicians and care we have, makes this ache and all of our questions more manageable.  

We continue to be blown away by your prayers, support, and friendships. Opening the mail box is like Christmas for us as we get sweet cards, encouraging scriptures, and thoughtful gifts.  Here are just a few on Dades chair.  I can't tell you how many texts or calls I have gotten telling me that they've had a really crappy day, but they are "Choosing Joy" no matter what.  I am glad that this has stuck with many of you.  Two friends have even found CHOOSE JOY items on ETSY and had them sent to us as encouraging reminders.  Thank you Claire and Bethany! We love these! 

As far as his room, DJ has been VERY busy!  He has painted all week and it looks wonderful.  Our colors are grey, orange, and teal/aqua.  They're bright and fun! Everything is starting to come together and Im really enjoying watching each step.  I do feel pretty helpless because I can't paint or redo his furniture, but staying busy has been helpful for DJ and he enjoys seeing each piece come together.    We will post pictures as more of it is completed.  

Several of you have asked for specific prayer requests.  My personal requests are 1) Less anxiety as the due date comes closer.  Right now, I am rolling along from day to day and for the most part, doing well.  As August gets closer, I get more anxious about not only giving birth, but mainly letting go of any control I have with my son. The way I see it is that Dade is getting everything he currently needs from me.  He is safe, growing like a weed, and can breathe comfortably.  Once he is delivered, I have NO control over what happens or ability to physically help him.  It will truly be the beginning of our journey and a true test of faith.  He has to come out fighting for his life and DJ and I will be the bench watching the team play without us.  

2) We have been given many harsh statistics and the raw facts about what is to come. One of the hardest things I've been told and am having to cope with is that I won't be able to hold Dade.  We don't know how long it will be, but we know with the ventilator, possible ECMO, and other issues, holding him will just not be conducive.  I respect and understand it. I just don't like it and NOT being able to hold your child for weeks, maybe months, has been the main thing that brings me to tears.  Please pray for each of these issues.  We are still hoping and praying that as bad as this situation is, that the doctors will see an improvement in his hernia and that it won't be as severe as we are all prepared for.  Some of you have told me you're praying for complete healing before he is even born. We would take that miracle ALL DAY LONG!