Friday, December 26

Ronald McDonald House

For the past week or so, Dustin has taken over the job of updating the blog. He's done an amazing job, and I am now a huge fan of his writing. I wake up every morning and one of the first things I do is read his entry, since he typically writes after I am in bed the night before. Anyway, we both thought it was time for me to take a turn at blogging again.
I never imagined that I would be spending Christmas weekend at the Ronald McDonald House, and celebrating the Holidays with complete strangers. Then again, in the last three weeks, I've done a lot of things I never imagined myself doing. But, I honestly have to say that we have been having a great time together as a family...starting new Holiday Traditions. Those of you who know me, know that I am NOT a fan of fast food, especially McDonalds. However, I doubt I will ever pass up the opportunity to support McDonalds and the Ronald McDonald House again!
I was able to spend 2 hours with Baby Todd this morning. It was a wonderful visit with him. Because of my fear of losing him, I slowly detached myself from the experience all together. For the first time since we received his diagnosis in July, I felt like I was finally starting to allow my self to connect with him and "bond". He was awake most of my visit this morning, and was moving his hands and legs. He would squeeze my finger when I talked to him, and would look at me as if he was just soaking up every word I said. I talked to him about leaving a legacy, the importance of his testimony, and the amazing Gifts that God has given him.

While visiting with Baby Todd this morning, the nurses updated me on the adjustments they were making to his machines. His overall condition has not changed, and in the Doctor's words, "He is still a very sick baby". His tiny body has been through so much over the last 3 weeks, his organs are still in need of much rest. We are continuing to pray for improvement in his liver and kidney function, and restoration and healing for his lungs. This has been a very slow process, but through it all God has been very faithful...and His timing is perfect.

Thank you all, again, for your continuous prayer and support, and encouragement. I can not begin to tell you how much it means to us, to know that we have so many people praying and walking with us in this journey.

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

Jerri and Dusty, my mother host a ladys fealoship on thursdays and i told my moms friends about baby Todd and what he had and they have been praying for you and i have been praying for you and God knows what baby todd needs so just hang in there .
praying for Mary Hudzinski

mom to four boys said...

My heart aches for you. I pray your son recovers quickly, and my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kathy

The Amstutz Family said...

How beautiful for you to have such a special time with Todd this morning and that you felt free to allow yourself to do/say all those important "mommy" things. I'm sure it meant a lot to him to have you there too. We are praying with you guys and have been very blessed already by Todd's life and the testimony of your faith. Please know that we are praying with you guys and that we hold you very dear to our hearts. Much love to you all!

Unknown said...

I too begin my morning by reading your daily blog. It has brought back hospital Christmas memories close to my heart. God's strength is evident in your lives. His power is evident in your attitude. His glory is being revealed in the faith walk you choose. Moment by moment He will sustain you.
Walking this journey with you,
Gina

Anonymous said...

Thank you so much for this daily update. We have been blessed in may ways by this journey with you and the gift of this very special family connection. We will greatly miss you at the Lehman Christmas meal today but you are being kept close to our hearts and prayers.

Aunt Jeannie

Jenny M said...

Whenever I read your blog, I cry. You guys are never far from our thoughts and prayers. I am so glad that you were able to spend some time with Todd yesterday. Your faith is in encouraging to us as you endure this journey. May God continue to give you strength.
Matt and Jenny

Anonymous said...

We have been reading your up dates every day and have been praying and crying with you for your little son. We love you and will continue to pray for you and little Todd. Praying for you always Royce and Christa Eby

FLINK said...

Hi neighbors...we've been trying to keep ourselves abreast of how Todd's been doing and have been praying for him (and you both) multiple times a day. We are still on 2B at least for a couple more days and hope to see you again before we are discharged. Please let us know if we can do anything besides pray!

Jeff and Melissa Flink

The Reise Family said...

Hey Jerri and Dustin, I have been reading your blog, my heart aches for you. We are praying strength for you both as well as healing for Baby Todd's lungs, kidneys and praying for a new heart to come qiuckly. We love you guys and are praying for good reports!
Love, Christy, Kyle and Sophie