HOWEVER, I couldn't let today pass unnoticed.
Sweet Rose, aka Jude's mommy, and one of the first ladies who reached out to us after Parker's diagnosis, organized a little get together today for some CDH babies who live not too far from each other. I was so excited to go, to finally get to love on these babies who beat the CDH monster and to hug the necks of the women who understood our journey better than anyone and who stood by our sides through thick and thin. I've often referred to them as "imaginary" friends, because I feel like I know them, but would walk right past them in the grocery store.
Today we finally got to meet, and it was a grand and glorious time-- all of our families (minus just a few) in a beautiful park on a perfect fall day. Hearts full to bursting.
Lily, Bonnie, Clara, Parker, and Jude (in the back)
**picture courtesy of the Hardys**
It's hard to look at that picture and not be amazed, knowing their stories, and knowing the struggles they have all faced. 5 wee ones, with something like 18 months' NICU time between them. 5 strong and healthy babies who all, at various times, were far too close to dying. 5 little people who, for all intents and purposes, are living "normal" lives doing what "normal" babies do.
5 miracles.
I mentioned it before, but I think it's worth mentioning again, the miracle isn't that these babies survived. Or even that they were born. The miracle is that they were formed, albeit imperfectly... Imperfect by human standards, but designed exactly the way God intended them to be.
Looking at those faces above, I think you'd be hard pressed to find any of us who'd change a thing!
