Happy Birthday to Lillian. I hope you've enjoyed these "25 Days of Lillian posts".
I wanted to do a little photo montage of her each year on her birthday, alas, it's taking me way too long to find pictures, which is pitiful considering the digital age we live in. Anywho...
She enjoyed coming down to her peppa pig decorations. There were tiny gasps and giggles as she saw each thing. (thanks again friend!)
Tonight we will celebrate by going to Taco Bell as that is what the princess has requested.
It has been made known to me, my sneaky daughters took it upon themselves to plan a birthday party for her on Sunday afternoon and while we are way to busy with other things, we will pause and take the time to gather with a few friends and family to really celebrate her.
Thank you again for the cards and gifts arriving by mail, Lillian has enjoyed that immensely and truth be told, we all have.
I cherish each of my children, but that goes to a whole new level when you face losing one. We will celebrate and be grateful because you just never know what tomorrow holds.
Happy ninth birthday, my angel. I love you more than my heart can tell.
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
25 Days of Lillian ( Day 24)
Hey everybody, thanks for praying, I know you were because I woke up feeling so much more refreshed today. I've still cried today, but hey, it only lasted a few moments this time :)
ONE MORE DAY!!! How have almost 9 years come and gone? It hasn't passed by quickly by any means, but at the same time it doesn't really seem possible.
Today, a sweet friend came by and dropped off supplies for a little party set up for her tomorrow morning....I'm so overwhelmed with grattitude. While I know Lillian won't really know the difference, I know the difference.
Her life is a miracle and I don't want the day tlo pass without celebration and thanks to Maggie, we will have a special morning with her.
This is not an easy walk and there are hard days, BUT we are BLESSED be-yond measure.
I'm grateful for you friends! I'm grateful for you family! I'm grateful for those who have been there that have never been made known. Your prayers and generosity mean more than you will ever know.
ONE MORE DAY!!! How have almost 9 years come and gone? It hasn't passed by quickly by any means, but at the same time it doesn't really seem possible.
Today, a sweet friend came by and dropped off supplies for a little party set up for her tomorrow morning....I'm so overwhelmed with grattitude. While I know Lillian won't really know the difference, I know the difference.
Her life is a miracle and I don't want the day tlo pass without celebration and thanks to Maggie, we will have a special morning with her.
This is not an easy walk and there are hard days, BUT we are BLESSED be-yond measure.
I'm grateful for you friends! I'm grateful for you family! I'm grateful for those who have been there that have never been made known. Your prayers and generosity mean more than you will ever know.
Monday, November 23, 2015
25 Days of Lillian ( day 23) Things that happen..a day in the life
Well, today has been a bad day in the world of being a special needs mom. First off, two nights ago in my exhausted stupor, I got up in my sleep and turned off Lillian's feeding. She did not receive over half her volume of nutrition because I for whatever reason turned it off. Talk about your parent fail. While I try to let those things go because it happened and I can't do a thing about it, it just feels really, really, bad.
Today, I found myself totally alone. Noone to call for help...alone and in a pickle. It was early morning and Ezekiel had been up most of the night wailing complaining of neck pain. To the point that I was crying because I was becoming scared by what was going on. At one point, I was sitting in the bed, holding him like a baby while he cried. At some point Lillian needed attention, breathing treatments, restroom assistance...I was stuck between to babies who both needed me and one of them was going to suffer. It's not the same when you are dealing with "normal" kids. A normal 9 year old can help themselves. Be self sufficient, mine cannot.
I had to make a rush doctor appointment and go in there unshowered and unkempt, because I only had time to get Lillian's needs taken care of in order to be able to care for Ezekiel's.
I can't just run out my door. I have a feeding that has to be prepared and go.
It's been a bad day for me, as a mom.
Ezekiel needed an xray and looks to have some type of muscle strain. He's had a rough rough day.
It's been hard day and I'm feeling even more disappointed that I can't do something special for her birthday because we are just too buried in everything else. Lillian, Ezekiel and I are also try to recoup from sickness.
bad day, just keepin it real people.
Today, I found myself totally alone. Noone to call for help...alone and in a pickle. It was early morning and Ezekiel had been up most of the night wailing complaining of neck pain. To the point that I was crying because I was becoming scared by what was going on. At one point, I was sitting in the bed, holding him like a baby while he cried. At some point Lillian needed attention, breathing treatments, restroom assistance...I was stuck between to babies who both needed me and one of them was going to suffer. It's not the same when you are dealing with "normal" kids. A normal 9 year old can help themselves. Be self sufficient, mine cannot.
I had to make a rush doctor appointment and go in there unshowered and unkempt, because I only had time to get Lillian's needs taken care of in order to be able to care for Ezekiel's.
I can't just run out my door. I have a feeding that has to be prepared and go.
It's been a bad day for me, as a mom.
Ezekiel needed an xray and looks to have some type of muscle strain. He's had a rough rough day.
It's been hard day and I'm feeling even more disappointed that I can't do something special for her birthday because we are just too buried in everything else. Lillian, Ezekiel and I are also try to recoup from sickness.
bad day, just keepin it real people.
Sunday, November 22, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (day22) Her immunity disorder explained as best as I can
If you previously read my post on Lillian's medical issues, I listed ciliary dyskinesia as her immune disorder. Basically, the pulmonologist had a suspicion that this was why Lillian was getting ill so frequently and after biopsies in her nose, sinuses, and lungs it was confirmed.
We have these tiny, tiny hairs in all those cavities that move mucous up and out of our bodies. That's part of how we stay healthy. Lillian's happen to be missing and what is present does not function. This means that all bacteria remains in those areas and her body isn't able to get rid of them.
They have her on respiratory treatments that are the same protocol they use for CF patients.
She gets a nebulized IV antibiotic every other month twice a day. She has a vest treatment 20 minutes twice a day every day to move junk up to the point where she can cough it out.
Even with all this, Lillian still gets sick. We have found that minimizing her exposure to large crowds and escpecially groups of kids helps. This actually translates to really not going anywhere much at all..and flu season is even more "bubble time".
I get super stir crazy this time of year and I'm always weighing what I want and even what I need against how it might affect Lillian, because seriously, it's just not worth her getting sick and being hospitalized.
So, there you go...is that clear as mud? OH- and this is probably connected to her genetic diagnosis. It's not a primary diagnosis...secondary to her genetics issues more likely.
We have these tiny, tiny hairs in all those cavities that move mucous up and out of our bodies. That's part of how we stay healthy. Lillian's happen to be missing and what is present does not function. This means that all bacteria remains in those areas and her body isn't able to get rid of them.
They have her on respiratory treatments that are the same protocol they use for CF patients.
She gets a nebulized IV antibiotic every other month twice a day. She has a vest treatment 20 minutes twice a day every day to move junk up to the point where she can cough it out.
Even with all this, Lillian still gets sick. We have found that minimizing her exposure to large crowds and escpecially groups of kids helps. This actually translates to really not going anywhere much at all..and flu season is even more "bubble time".
I get super stir crazy this time of year and I'm always weighing what I want and even what I need against how it might affect Lillian, because seriously, it's just not worth her getting sick and being hospitalized.
So, there you go...is that clear as mud? OH- and this is probably connected to her genetic diagnosis. It's not a primary diagnosis...secondary to her genetics issues more likely.
Saturday, November 21, 2015
25 Days of Lillian ( days 20 and 21)
So, I forgot day 20. Add it my list of accolades. I'm sick, the two littles are sick, I haven't slept in over a week and I'm tired. My stress level is off the charts as we have had SO much happening. So, yep, I forgot and I didn't even realize i forgot until today. sorry.
I have been busy packing today or attempting to do so...packing here, unpacking there...ugh!
I'm just going to share some pics of Lillian opening today's cards. She is thoroughly enjoying this and especially likes the singing cards. Thank you to each and every person who is taking the time to send a card and all the love!!
I have been busy packing today or attempting to do so...packing here, unpacking there...ugh!
I'm just going to share some pics of Lillian opening today's cards. She is thoroughly enjoying this and especially likes the singing cards. Thank you to each and every person who is taking the time to send a card and all the love!!
Thursday, November 19, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (day 19) Painting pumpkins
Thank goodness for big sisters who buy pumpkins and paint....a happy day!
Wednesday, November 18, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (day18) A little more medical info
Tube Feedings. Yeah, let's talk about it. Many people do not realize that Lillian is (for whatever reason) unable or chooses not to swallow most all foods. She gets three tube feedings through the day and she is on a drip that runs continuously all night. She has what is called a mic-key button that inflates a balloon inside her stomach, which holds it in place. We have a feeding bag that runs into a feeding pump and feeding tube that attaches to the button and voila...she gets fed. She does drink pretty good, but not lots of anything and always something with carbonation. I think it has to do with the way she feels it in her mouth.
We have to carry a replacement button, special syringe, extra bag, ky jelly, and extension tubings at all times, because yes, her tube gets ripped out of her gut and it is generally very unpleasant for her. We also have to change it about every other month or when it starts leaking and won't stay inflated. It's not a difficult process except when she is upset she is tense which makes it hard to get the tube reinserted.
I don't think I ever thought she'd still be tube fed by the age of nine. Keeping her healthy and just trying to keep food in her gut always took precedence because she had such terrible feeding intolerance.
She's on a metabolic formula and her feeding supplies cost close to three thousand dollars per month. Praise God for insurance.
I'm currently looking into real food tube feedings, I think it would be so much better for her to be getting real food and not a formula based diet. I think it would help with her bowel problems as well.
When we do eat, we always make her a plate, but she tends to chew up and spit out anything she puts in her mouth.
She chokes quite often on most solids she chews even though she chews it up very thoroughly.
I'm grateful we have the ability to still provide her nutrition thru feedings, but there is a flip side to it as well. The pumps can be very touchy and tubing gets kinked and ports get popped open...all of which causes mess and stress. My alarm every morning for the last eight years is the howling beep of a feeding pump signaling it's finished. It can, on some days, be my total undoing. Just being honest. I mean I never really thought we'd still be here and I'd still be mixing formula every single day at age 9.
A sweet friend once reminded me that I also thought she'd never be potty trained. So, when I'm discouraged or when the pump is driving me IN.SANE. I remember her words.
It sounds strange, but I still get an extreme sense of amazed wonder and gratitude when Ezekiel eats. AND, just to tell you how crazy I am, I've actually chased him around several times, trying to hook him up to HER feeding.....oh mercy, what a journey.
We have to carry a replacement button, special syringe, extra bag, ky jelly, and extension tubings at all times, because yes, her tube gets ripped out of her gut and it is generally very unpleasant for her. We also have to change it about every other month or when it starts leaking and won't stay inflated. It's not a difficult process except when she is upset she is tense which makes it hard to get the tube reinserted.
I don't think I ever thought she'd still be tube fed by the age of nine. Keeping her healthy and just trying to keep food in her gut always took precedence because she had such terrible feeding intolerance.
She's on a metabolic formula and her feeding supplies cost close to three thousand dollars per month. Praise God for insurance.
I'm currently looking into real food tube feedings, I think it would be so much better for her to be getting real food and not a formula based diet. I think it would help with her bowel problems as well.
When we do eat, we always make her a plate, but she tends to chew up and spit out anything she puts in her mouth.
She chokes quite often on most solids she chews even though she chews it up very thoroughly.
I'm grateful we have the ability to still provide her nutrition thru feedings, but there is a flip side to it as well. The pumps can be very touchy and tubing gets kinked and ports get popped open...all of which causes mess and stress. My alarm every morning for the last eight years is the howling beep of a feeding pump signaling it's finished. It can, on some days, be my total undoing. Just being honest. I mean I never really thought we'd still be here and I'd still be mixing formula every single day at age 9.
A sweet friend once reminded me that I also thought she'd never be potty trained. So, when I'm discouraged or when the pump is driving me IN.SANE. I remember her words.
It sounds strange, but I still get an extreme sense of amazed wonder and gratitude when Ezekiel eats. AND, just to tell you how crazy I am, I've actually chased him around several times, trying to hook him up to HER feeding.....oh mercy, what a journey.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (day 17) Just a little photo and update
Lillian is certainly enjoying receiving cards. I think she's gotten 5 so far and I'm letting her open them as they come. She has even received some little gifts along with the cards. Thank you to those that are taking the time to do such a small gesture for my little sweetie! Because we are in the midst of moving and have had some serious and big occasions happening, this post will be pretty much this little blurb and her picture. Please continue to hold us in prayer...a couple of the older girls are really having a hard time.
Monday, November 16, 2015
25 Days of Lillian ( day 16) A tribute
You might find it strange that I would choose to write a tribute to my mother in law in 25 Days of Lillian. However, once you read, you will understand how it is very fitting for her blog.
I have been with my husband for 23 years. We are coming up on 21 years of marriage. Thursday evening, we lost his mother. Loving, devoted wife to Matt's dad for over 50 years until his death and then married again a man she called her best friend. He passed away a little less than two years ago. She was the mother of six children, Three boys, three girls. Grandmother to many, many more children. Ruth and I had an interesting relationship. I believe she loved me. I certainly loved her. She had very strong opinions and she was never afraid of telling you what she thought. Which, to be honest was sometimes offensive to me. lol. I think everyone in the family could attest to that. For example, about 6-8 months ago as she was trying to regain her strength, she asked me to trade her bodies. I said I would if I could, but she then she added, my body but less fat... HA!! We had a good laugh about it. That was her. We didn't always see eye to eye and I'm pretty sure she worried that I might never be able to raise the brood we were quickly adding to our quiver.
We had our struggles. We even had some periods of estrangement. These last couple years had found me reclaiming my relationship with her. She told me on multiple occasions how proud she was of Matt and me and also how sorry she was for past problems.
The one area we didn't always agree, but definitely were able to share was our faith. I had the privelege of holding her hands while bowed at her feet crying out to God for healing, whether it was physical or emotional. She and I could always meet at the feet of the Father.
Upon her death, it had only been made known to three of us, that she wanted to be creamated. Her sole purpse? To offer her burial plot to us in case we would need it for Lillian. The fullness of that decision is just overwhelming me. I can't even put it into words. So, in the event that my sweet angel is called home, she will rest beside her papaw and mamaw. . I tell you, Friday night while I lay crying in bed, her voice..her once strong clear voice whispered in my ear, don't cry for me...don't cry for me. Just like in the same way I hear from the Lord...I heard her.
While I can rejoice that she is no longer suffering physical pain and she is reunited with Alec, and dancing and praising at the feet of Jesus, my heart is grieving what seems like a life gone too soon.
To my husband, my grieving children, brothers and sisters and all extended family gifted to me these last 23 years, I love you all, thank you for loving me into the family all this time. Michelle
I have been with my husband for 23 years. We are coming up on 21 years of marriage. Thursday evening, we lost his mother. Loving, devoted wife to Matt's dad for over 50 years until his death and then married again a man she called her best friend. He passed away a little less than two years ago. She was the mother of six children, Three boys, three girls. Grandmother to many, many more children. Ruth and I had an interesting relationship. I believe she loved me. I certainly loved her. She had very strong opinions and she was never afraid of telling you what she thought. Which, to be honest was sometimes offensive to me. lol. I think everyone in the family could attest to that. For example, about 6-8 months ago as she was trying to regain her strength, she asked me to trade her bodies. I said I would if I could, but she then she added, my body but less fat... HA!! We had a good laugh about it. That was her. We didn't always see eye to eye and I'm pretty sure she worried that I might never be able to raise the brood we were quickly adding to our quiver.
We had our struggles. We even had some periods of estrangement. These last couple years had found me reclaiming my relationship with her. She told me on multiple occasions how proud she was of Matt and me and also how sorry she was for past problems.
The one area we didn't always agree, but definitely were able to share was our faith. I had the privelege of holding her hands while bowed at her feet crying out to God for healing, whether it was physical or emotional. She and I could always meet at the feet of the Father.
Upon her death, it had only been made known to three of us, that she wanted to be creamated. Her sole purpse? To offer her burial plot to us in case we would need it for Lillian. The fullness of that decision is just overwhelming me. I can't even put it into words. So, in the event that my sweet angel is called home, she will rest beside her papaw and mamaw. . I tell you, Friday night while I lay crying in bed, her voice..her once strong clear voice whispered in my ear, don't cry for me...don't cry for me. Just like in the same way I hear from the Lord...I heard her.
While I can rejoice that she is no longer suffering physical pain and she is reunited with Alec, and dancing and praising at the feet of Jesus, my heart is grieving what seems like a life gone too soon.
To my husband, my grieving children, brothers and sisters and all extended family gifted to me these last 23 years, I love you all, thank you for loving me into the family all this time. Michelle
Friday, November 13, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (day 13) a time to grieve
I've sat down to write several times today, but my heart is overwhelmed with sadness. Matt's mother passed away suddenly yesterday evening.
I've tried to explain it to Lillian a little, but somehow I think she kind of already knows. I'm not sure how she will handle the funeral as this will be the first time she's really experienced someone she knows dying.
While I know Ruth is in peace in heaven, I'm fully overwhelmed with grief. Keep us, our children, especially our kids, and our entire family in your prayers as we walk through the next few difficult days.
This is my favorite picture I have of her and the only tangible memory our son will have.
Thursday, November 12, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (day 12) A helper
Lillian enjoys getting into whatever we are doing and helping. We have had trees blow down and she has helped carry limbs. She just gets right into helping as much as her body will allow. She enjoys doing housework, emptying the dishwasher, dusting, cleaning glass. She also does all these things with a smile. (An attitude I need to adopt from time to time)
In the move, we are working hard, scraping wall paper, painting, and other such things. She spent a really good portion of the night scraping down wall paper in her sister's room. Madeline took a picture of her work and brought it down to show us and Lillian was absolutely ecstatic. She immediately wanted to run back up stairs and keep working. What a trooper!
She has attempted painting walls, but that was a short endeavor as she got a little carried away. ( we kinda had to stop her lest we had blue paint all over windows and trim)
Now, picking up toys is a slightly different story, but she does help with that occasionally.
We sure our blessed by our sweet little helper!
Wednesday, November 11, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (day 11) She celebrates EVERY thing
Lillian gets very excited about things you wouldn't expect. When she watches Team Umizoomi and she gets an answer right, she cheers. I mean, cheers, she yells, throws her arm in the air and whoever is around must be available for a high five. ( i cheer too when she gets educational stuff right!)
Buy her some mini pepperonis in the store and there is a celebration in the aisle that draws attention.
She gets excited when we talk about going to Grandma's houses. She starts cheering when we get close to their homes because she recognizes that we are almost there.(it's always amazed us that she recognized landmarks at such an early age)
Her sheer joy is infectious. Not just to me or our family. For some reason, I don't know why, she absolutely loves Menards and Home Depot. Strange, I know. We were going into Home Depot the other day and she was just giggling with excitement...it was just bursting forth from her tiny body. There was a greeter at the door and he was smiling from ear to ear. He handed them suckers and he looked at me, with the biggest grin and said, "boy, I've never seen someone so happy to be at home depot..." and then he said, "a kid, I've never seen a small child be so happy to be here". Just looking at his face hugged my heart. My daughter poured her joy out on him and you could tell it changed his day. I told him I didn't know exactly why she loved it..but she does. When she sees the Menards building from the parking lot she goes berserk cheering with excitment. ( now the challenges we face in the store can cause the total opposite affect. Heaven forbid we run into a fork lift moving something,because then she's freaking out. the loud beeping and all...)
She is absolutely full of love and joy and I daresay everyone that gets to know her falls in love with her. How could they not?Listen, you can't be around her tiny, little self and not have some of that rub off on you. AND, as her mother, when I see someone take time to sit and play with her and enjoy her, it fills me with love and joy too.
Buy her some mini pepperonis in the store and there is a celebration in the aisle that draws attention.
She gets excited when we talk about going to Grandma's houses. She starts cheering when we get close to their homes because she recognizes that we are almost there.(it's always amazed us that she recognized landmarks at such an early age)
Her sheer joy is infectious. Not just to me or our family. For some reason, I don't know why, she absolutely loves Menards and Home Depot. Strange, I know. We were going into Home Depot the other day and she was just giggling with excitement...it was just bursting forth from her tiny body. There was a greeter at the door and he was smiling from ear to ear. He handed them suckers and he looked at me, with the biggest grin and said, "boy, I've never seen someone so happy to be at home depot..." and then he said, "a kid, I've never seen a small child be so happy to be here". Just looking at his face hugged my heart. My daughter poured her joy out on him and you could tell it changed his day. I told him I didn't know exactly why she loved it..but she does. When she sees the Menards building from the parking lot she goes berserk cheering with excitment. ( now the challenges we face in the store can cause the total opposite affect. Heaven forbid we run into a fork lift moving something,because then she's freaking out. the loud beeping and all...)
She is absolutely full of love and joy and I daresay everyone that gets to know her falls in love with her. How could they not?Listen, you can't be around her tiny, little self and not have some of that rub off on you. AND, as her mother, when I see someone take time to sit and play with her and enjoy her, it fills me with love and joy too.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (day 10) the future
This is a difficult post to write. (This is your kleenex warning)
The Bible tells us not to worry about tomorrow because God is already there. So I'm not talking about worry. I'm talking about planning. Planning for a future. When I consider Lillian's future, I'm fairly certain she will always be with us. She will not grow up, go to college or likely even be able to hold down a job. That is a future I see. I also wonder what will happen if there's a day when I or her Dad will not be here or able to care for her. No parent wants to out live their children. As I consider all of this,the lump in my throat is causing me pain because who can love her as much as I do????
I hope, that her siblings and the spouses they choose will have a heart to take over Lillian's care if ever the need arises. I also pray that they will not be bitter in making the choice to care for her. I don't know if it's fair to expect them to assume the resposibility. Seriously, there are days when I feel very bogged down by the weight of the day to day, but I'm so grateful for the ability to continue to do so. She's my child and there's nothing I wouldn't do for her. Will a sibling feel the same?
Give Me Breath
As long as she is living, give me breath
As long as she is living, give me strength
As long as she is living give me health
As long as she is living, give me grace
As long as she is living, give me hope
As long as she is living, give me peace
As long as she is living, give me endureance
As long as she is living, help me to breathe
As long as she is living, let me give care
Lord, as long as you give her life...
Give me breath
The Bible tells us not to worry about tomorrow because God is already there. So I'm not talking about worry. I'm talking about planning. Planning for a future. When I consider Lillian's future, I'm fairly certain she will always be with us. She will not grow up, go to college or likely even be able to hold down a job. That is a future I see. I also wonder what will happen if there's a day when I or her Dad will not be here or able to care for her. No parent wants to out live their children. As I consider all of this,the lump in my throat is causing me pain because who can love her as much as I do????
I hope, that her siblings and the spouses they choose will have a heart to take over Lillian's care if ever the need arises. I also pray that they will not be bitter in making the choice to care for her. I don't know if it's fair to expect them to assume the resposibility. Seriously, there are days when I feel very bogged down by the weight of the day to day, but I'm so grateful for the ability to continue to do so. She's my child and there's nothing I wouldn't do for her. Will a sibling feel the same?
Give Me Breath
As long as she is living, give me breath
As long as she is living, give me strength
As long as she is living give me health
As long as she is living, give me grace
As long as she is living, give me hope
As long as she is living, give me peace
As long as she is living, give me endureance
As long as she is living, help me to breathe
As long as she is living, let me give care
Lord, as long as you give her life...
Give me breath
Monday, November 9, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (day 9) Good Morning Friends
Day nine! Only16 more days unitl this little girl turns 9...hard to believe. I really, really, really wanted to have a birthday party for her this year and invite a few "friends". However, being in the midst of a move is not ideal for partying. My baby doesn't really have "friends". She has siblings that she adores, but friends are another story. Younger kids don't "get" her and kids her age, her peers, for 99% of them they pretty much ignore her.
It nearly brings me to tears when I see a child her age actually try to engage with her. We have one family friend, Karly, that actually plays with Lillian. She pays attention to her...she engages with her and it is absolutely overwhelming for me to watch. One of my nephews also takes a bit of a shine to Lillian and tries to play with her from time to time as well. I try to tell their Mom's how special they are because their hearts see something that other kids don't. That's how we are though, right, all different with differing gifts. For me...as a mom, they are not seeing a disabled, delayed little girl, they just see a friend. Oh geez...how did this turn into a crying post...??? sheesh...
Example: We have a neighbor girl that is five or six. She wants to come over every time we are outside. When she does come over, she plays with Lillian a little, but soon is just wanting to hang with the older girls. Lillian just doesn't have the stamina to keep up with playing physical games very long. Then, before I know it, Lillian is sitting alone, watching the little girl play around our yard. It's hard to describe... yes, even though Lillian is delayed, she's not completely on the level of younger children, just as she's not on the complete level of her peers. She recognizes that younger kids are younger than her.
It's kind of one of those things that break my heart, but really it's not something I focus on because it's just not that important in the grand scheme of things. Just one of those "normalcies" that causes me a slight twinge of pain occasionally.
Anyhoo, perhaps we will party just to party when warmer weather arrives and try out a "friend" party and see how it goes.
So, since no party will happen and we will likely be celebrating together as a family, how about a card shower for Lillian? She loves to get mail and you'd be surprised how much she loves to carry around magazines and cards and things? If you'd like to send her a card, please email me and I'll send you our address qltlvr5@comcast.net. Note; If you are a crazyinternetstalkergoingtotrackusdownwherewelive kinda person...please don't ask. HA!
I leave you with a morning selfie...
It nearly brings me to tears when I see a child her age actually try to engage with her. We have one family friend, Karly, that actually plays with Lillian. She pays attention to her...she engages with her and it is absolutely overwhelming for me to watch. One of my nephews also takes a bit of a shine to Lillian and tries to play with her from time to time as well. I try to tell their Mom's how special they are because their hearts see something that other kids don't. That's how we are though, right, all different with differing gifts. For me...as a mom, they are not seeing a disabled, delayed little girl, they just see a friend. Oh geez...how did this turn into a crying post...??? sheesh...
Example: We have a neighbor girl that is five or six. She wants to come over every time we are outside. When she does come over, she plays with Lillian a little, but soon is just wanting to hang with the older girls. Lillian just doesn't have the stamina to keep up with playing physical games very long. Then, before I know it, Lillian is sitting alone, watching the little girl play around our yard. It's hard to describe... yes, even though Lillian is delayed, she's not completely on the level of younger children, just as she's not on the complete level of her peers. She recognizes that younger kids are younger than her.
It's kind of one of those things that break my heart, but really it's not something I focus on because it's just not that important in the grand scheme of things. Just one of those "normalcies" that causes me a slight twinge of pain occasionally.
Anyhoo, perhaps we will party just to party when warmer weather arrives and try out a "friend" party and see how it goes.
So, since no party will happen and we will likely be celebrating together as a family, how about a card shower for Lillian? She loves to get mail and you'd be surprised how much she loves to carry around magazines and cards and things? If you'd like to send her a card, please email me and I'll send you our address qltlvr5@comcast.net. Note; If you are a crazyinternetstalkergoingtotrackusdownwherewelive kinda person...please don't ask. HA!
I leave you with a morning selfie...
Sunday, November 8, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (Day 8) A new home
We have been in prayer for well over a year in regards to finding a home for our family. One that will suit Lillian's needs well. We have found a place and we are working evenings over there trying to prepare for moving in.
So what do you do when the house is empty, everyone is working inside,and there is wet paint? You go outside and "race" your little brother in your soon to be yard!
FYI- Running is not something Lillian is able to do a lot, but we were told she would need assistance to even walk unitl she was 8 or 9 years old. It never gets old seeing her run.
PS- Q&;A time...if anyone has specific questions they'd like me to answer in a blog, post post them in a comment on my facebook post and I'll make a post answering them. Apparently, people aren't able to comment here even though it's open posting.
Bj
So what do you do when the house is empty, everyone is working inside,and there is wet paint? You go outside and "race" your little brother in your soon to be yard!
FYI- Running is not something Lillian is able to do a lot, but we were told she would need assistance to even walk unitl she was 8 or 9 years old. It never gets old seeing her run.
PS- Q&;A time...if anyone has specific questions they'd like me to answer in a blog, post post them in a comment on my facebook post and I'll make a post answering them. Apparently, people aren't able to comment here even though it's open posting.
Saturday, November 7, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (Day7) How her life changed mine
How can I even put into words how I've changed? I hope this doesn't come across in the wrong way. I have joy. I have happiness. My faith is where these things are found. BUT, a small piece of me is changed and will never be the same. There is a seriousness about me that did not exist before and the care free-ness that I once felt no longer exists.
I have melt downs over feeding bags, missed appointments, and wet beds. Things that really don't matter, but I think sometimes the heaviness of the load I carry comes out in those "little" things.
I'm constantly praying to remain unjaded. I have to remember that because I've dealt with more than the norm, that others struggle with the norm. My compassion gets skewed sometimes.
Well meaning people with their well meaning thoughts, who don't have a clue what our life is like, give them grace They just don't know..they don't live it.
Grace...giving people grace. I feel isolated. A lot. I've felt and been let down by friends and family. Give them grace and let go of the bitterness.
I've learned to humbly accept the kindess and generosity of strangers, friends, and family and be incredibly grateful.
Confrontation has never been my strong suit, but living a life of fighting for so much for my child has made me fierce.
I've learned that waiting grows patience. I've done a lot of waiting, friends...lots and lots of waiting. Uncountable hours. Doesn't even bother my anymore...except sometimes in the drive thru. :)
Harsh as it may sound, it's true that my life is my life and people that I come to have to depend on are just doing a job. There doesn't seem to be a whole lot of excellence in service anymore or even common courtesy. Professionals and nonprofessionals alike. This is something I experience almost daily. I believe many other SN mothers could agree with me on this point.
I know as mothers we all have those moments where we feel like the day was a fail. I experience that exponentially more when something happens with Lillian that could be prevented.
I struggle with feeling the need for the everyday people in my life to understand, to truly understand. Does that make sense? There are several people I've only met through reading their blogs and I feel so close to them becuase I know they get it. I think I have one IRL person that when I talk to her, I know she gets it. Our tears speak in harmony.
I have learned to never take anything for granted. I can marvel and find joy in the smallest of things.
I have found depth in the my walk with God that continually grows. I see how he uses all these things to hopefully make me a better person. More loving, more giving, more forgiving.
I've learned that sometimes my life must be lived one moment at a time. Minute by minute, hour by hour. And that is ok. Laundry will get done, floors will get mopped, dishes will be washed...eventually. (not to say not getting those things done doesn't drive me crazy at times I'm just sometimes totally and completely overwhelmed)
I could likely go on and on. So instead, I 'll share this picture, because I love her expression. True essence of Lillian : JOY
Friday, November 6, 2015
25 Days of Lillian ( day 6) A little bit of her "medical" picture
CLD Chronic Lung Disease
CHD Congenital Heart Defect
PDA Hole in the heart
VSD hole in the heart
PFO hole in the heart
Coarc of the aorta
Trisomy 2p
Terminal deletion 4q - chromosome anomalies, that are entertwined
VUR vesicoureteral reflux (reflux in kidneys)
GERD (stomach reflux)
BPP brachial plexus palsy
CD ciliary dyskinesia
FTT failure to thrive
Feeding intolerance
asthma
PE tubes
T tubes
DD developemental delay
hydronephrosis (fluid around kidneys)
pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs)
cleft palate
thinning white matter in the brain
hypotonic (low tone)
seizure
blood transfusions
constipation/diarrhea
sensory issues
This is a list of most of the things Lillian is or has been diagnosed with. Some of them are resolved, but most of them are what we deal with in her life. You know when you take your child for their well child visits and that giant list of things you get to say no to? I get to mark yes on most all of them.
Surgeries
Trach
heart
PEG tube
multiple sets of ear tubes
multiple bronchoscopies..too many to give you a number
adenoids removed
chest tubes
3 ostomy closures
cleft palate repair
2nd palate surgery
She has been in surgery so many times I don't keep track of the number. I never have any type of comfort level when leaving my child in the hands of a surgeon. All I can do is pray.
Hopsitalized
Twice for pneumonia, once including pleural effusion and requiring a chest tube
4 times for severe respiratory viruses plus add in some strep pneumo and cdiff
mulitple times after operations
Procedures outside of surgery...tests upon tests, CT's, MRI's, XRAYS, ultrasounds, echos, ekgs, PFTS, again, things I can't even list because they are too numerous.
I've met more than my fair share of doctors.
CHD Congenital Heart Defect
PDA Hole in the heart
VSD hole in the heart
PFO hole in the heart
Coarc of the aorta
Trisomy 2p
Terminal deletion 4q - chromosome anomalies, that are entertwined
VUR vesicoureteral reflux (reflux in kidneys)
GERD (stomach reflux)
BPP brachial plexus palsy
CD ciliary dyskinesia
FTT failure to thrive
Feeding intolerance
asthma
PE tubes
T tubes
DD developemental delay
hydronephrosis (fluid around kidneys)
pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs)
cleft palate
thinning white matter in the brain
hypotonic (low tone)
seizure
blood transfusions
constipation/diarrhea
sensory issues
This is a list of most of the things Lillian is or has been diagnosed with. Some of them are resolved, but most of them are what we deal with in her life. You know when you take your child for their well child visits and that giant list of things you get to say no to? I get to mark yes on most all of them.
Surgeries
Trach
heart
PEG tube
multiple sets of ear tubes
multiple bronchoscopies..too many to give you a number
adenoids removed
chest tubes
3 ostomy closures
cleft palate repair
2nd palate surgery
She has been in surgery so many times I don't keep track of the number. I never have any type of comfort level when leaving my child in the hands of a surgeon. All I can do is pray.
Hopsitalized
Twice for pneumonia, once including pleural effusion and requiring a chest tube
4 times for severe respiratory viruses plus add in some strep pneumo and cdiff
mulitple times after operations
Procedures outside of surgery...tests upon tests, CT's, MRI's, XRAYS, ultrasounds, echos, ekgs, PFTS, again, things I can't even list because they are too numerous.
I've met more than my fair share of doctors.
Thursday, November 5, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (day 5) A day in the life
I thought I might share what a typical day in the life for Lillian is. (Note, this ditl changes dramatically if she is sick...)
Her feeding pump goes off some time between 4 and 6 am. If I wake up right away, the chances are it doesn't disturb her.
She wakes up between 7 and 8 crying for me because she's afraid. She is strapped to her feeding bag which is plugged in so she can't get to me. (note, when we move we will be in a home with our bedrooms on the main floor! woohoo)
She gets an albuterol nebulized, pulmicort, nebulized, and IV antibitotic nebulized.
Come down stairs, potty again in prep for the vest machine. To which she's terrified if I'm not sitting right beside her. So 20 minutes later....that event is over.
She plays for a bit while I prep her formula and new feeding bag. By 11 she's hooked up to the feeding bag for 40 minutes (i've gotten her down from an hour just recently) She get's tube feedings at 11, 3, and 7, then on a night drip for the entire night.
She mostly spends the day playing with her kitchen, a little bit with the mini ipad and some educcation sprinkled through out the day. I attempt trying to get her to eat at each meal. We try to build in therapy type activites throughout the day as well.
If the weather is nice, we spend a little time outside where she is likely to be found in her playhouse daddy built for her.
By 5pm we are back to the vest for 20 minutes.
By 9 she's headed back up to bed for breathing treatment and sleep comes eventually.
Due to her medical fragility and immunity disorder she can't spend time around other kids. She can't attend school or be in groups with other kids because she ALWAYS gets sick when we do it. We stay away from playgrounds due to her low tone and small stature. She's not able to keep herself from getting knocked around or off of play ground equipment. Our home is Lillian's refuge and this is what a day in her life looks like.
Her feeding pump goes off some time between 4 and 6 am. If I wake up right away, the chances are it doesn't disturb her.
She wakes up between 7 and 8 crying for me because she's afraid. She is strapped to her feeding bag which is plugged in so she can't get to me. (note, when we move we will be in a home with our bedrooms on the main floor! woohoo)
She gets an albuterol nebulized, pulmicort, nebulized, and IV antibitotic nebulized.
Come down stairs, potty again in prep for the vest machine. To which she's terrified if I'm not sitting right beside her. So 20 minutes later....that event is over.
She plays for a bit while I prep her formula and new feeding bag. By 11 she's hooked up to the feeding bag for 40 minutes (i've gotten her down from an hour just recently) She get's tube feedings at 11, 3, and 7, then on a night drip for the entire night.
She mostly spends the day playing with her kitchen, a little bit with the mini ipad and some educcation sprinkled through out the day. I attempt trying to get her to eat at each meal. We try to build in therapy type activites throughout the day as well.
If the weather is nice, we spend a little time outside where she is likely to be found in her playhouse daddy built for her.
By 5pm we are back to the vest for 20 minutes.
By 9 she's headed back up to bed for breathing treatment and sleep comes eventually.
Due to her medical fragility and immunity disorder she can't spend time around other kids. She can't attend school or be in groups with other kids because she ALWAYS gets sick when we do it. We stay away from playgrounds due to her low tone and small stature. She's not able to keep herself from getting knocked around or off of play ground equipment. Our home is Lillian's refuge and this is what a day in her life looks like.
Wednesday, November 4, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (day 4) This girl loves....
Lillian has a few things that she really really really loves. (me of course...LOL) Seriously, though, I thought I'd share a few of her favorite things.
1. This girl loves her toy kitchen. If I had my way, I'd have her a whole organized play center with a bigger toy oven and cabinets...like a play center. She LOVES to "cook" and organize her foods and dishes. She even loves watching cooking shows, her favorite is Pioneer Woman. It cracks me up that she will watch her from start to finish.
2. She LOVES wearing dresses and skirts. It is so difficult to find things that fit her well in that arena...but we recently found some tiny maxi skirts at Target and she LOVES them. we got 4/5 and they still fall off her waist, but she adores them. She loves shoes and would love to wear heels. She told me the other day she liked some business woman's high heels...what a hoot.
3. She loves babies. She doesn't play with babies a ton, but she loves to interact with younger kiddos, especially babies.
4. Mountain dew addict. Go ahead and judge me. It's ok
5. She's obsessed with bags and purses, she probably gets that from me. :)
6. Her siblings. That's a given. She loves them whole heartedly and it is precious. Her little brother might now be her fave...they are best friends and arch enemies at times too.
Here she is in one of her beloved skirts. Look at that smile.
1. This girl loves her toy kitchen. If I had my way, I'd have her a whole organized play center with a bigger toy oven and cabinets...like a play center. She LOVES to "cook" and organize her foods and dishes. She even loves watching cooking shows, her favorite is Pioneer Woman. It cracks me up that she will watch her from start to finish.
2. She LOVES wearing dresses and skirts. It is so difficult to find things that fit her well in that arena...but we recently found some tiny maxi skirts at Target and she LOVES them. we got 4/5 and they still fall off her waist, but she adores them. She loves shoes and would love to wear heels. She told me the other day she liked some business woman's high heels...what a hoot.
3. She loves babies. She doesn't play with babies a ton, but she loves to interact with younger kiddos, especially babies.
4. Mountain dew addict. Go ahead and judge me. It's ok
5. She's obsessed with bags and purses, she probably gets that from me. :)
6. Her siblings. That's a given. She loves them whole heartedly and it is precious. Her little brother might now be her fave...they are best friends and arch enemies at times too.
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (day 3)
This girl...she's so funny...and sweet...and loving. Many times I share the difficulties of her being delayed or not age appropriate. It doesn't strike me so much until I'm around a child her age and the delay is very profound. BUT...let me share a more age appropriate story with you...
I needed a few, specific items from Walmart and I thought I could manage to run in and grab them with the two of them. (the littles I call them). As soon as we got in the store, she "nee foo". Which means she wants to look at the toy food. So, I think, a quick trip through the toys and I can get what I need after and everyone is happy. Note, we do not buy toy food at walmart as it is pretty junky. She knows that, we go through it every time we go. She looks at everything and I decide it is time to move on. We get back to the craft section and she slouches her shoulders and starts telling me "I boor" translation, "I"m bored". Followed by, "thi booin" translation "this is boring". SO, through the rest of the store, all I hear is big sighs followed by "i boor" and "thi booin"
All I could think was, well this is great followed by wow, this is so age appropriate. That in turn allows me to not be annoyed and slightly entertained.
Side note to this story, what wasn't so entertaining...her little brother had gotten spooked in the store and between her "bein boor" he was crying pitifully and saying "i rea-eee" "no" "no" "no" " i rea--eey"
Did not get all my specified items in walmart that day. Just sayin'.
And this is what I get when she is making cute poses and I ask her to take a picture...not cute poses.. But oh so age appropriate I'm thinking...
I needed a few, specific items from Walmart and I thought I could manage to run in and grab them with the two of them. (the littles I call them). As soon as we got in the store, she "nee foo". Which means she wants to look at the toy food. So, I think, a quick trip through the toys and I can get what I need after and everyone is happy. Note, we do not buy toy food at walmart as it is pretty junky. She knows that, we go through it every time we go. She looks at everything and I decide it is time to move on. We get back to the craft section and she slouches her shoulders and starts telling me "I boor" translation, "I"m bored". Followed by, "thi booin" translation "this is boring". SO, through the rest of the store, all I hear is big sighs followed by "i boor" and "thi booin"
All I could think was, well this is great followed by wow, this is so age appropriate. That in turn allows me to not be annoyed and slightly entertained.
Side note to this story, what wasn't so entertaining...her little brother had gotten spooked in the store and between her "bein boor" he was crying pitifully and saying "i rea-eee" "no" "no" "no" " i rea--eey"
Did not get all my specified items in walmart that day. Just sayin'.
And this is what I get when she is making cute poses and I ask her to take a picture...not cute poses.. But oh so age appropriate I'm thinking...
Monday, November 2, 2015
25 Days of Lillian (Day 2) When they tell you she will die
So many decisions had to made about Lillian's care. Prior to her trach surgery, I asked the team if that was the only option. I don't think I'll forget his response, he said, " well, yes, the other option is to do nothing...as in let her go". Some of those days haunt me. As I think about the amount she has suffered physically and what she's been subjected to, I use to beat myself up wondering if I had selfishly chosen a life of struggle for her. We were told she would die by age one or two. That first year, I was in total survival mode, Matt was working long, long hours, I was up around the clock taking care of her, and I really don't know how I managed to get my then small children fed and out the door to school. I don't remember a lot about that first year. It makes me sad. Madeline was only four and I remember so little. I literally did not get any sleep. Her first return visit to the hospital she was in severe respiratory distress, I was scared. That happened two months before her first birthday.
When they told us she would be mentally retarded and die, all I kept thinking about was, what have we done to our kids? what will we tell the kids? how can we prepare our kids?
Oddly, it seems like it gets harder for me each time she gets sick. It's difficult, when in the back of my mind I wonder if this sickness will be "it". How much can a tiny body take and still keep going?
This little girl, though? She gets weak, she gets very weak, but she bounces back. It takes her a while, but she does.
I wonder when I hear about people who lose their babies, their normal, healthy babies, why?? Why has our daughter been spared and theirs have not and I have guilt. Which is CUH-RAY-ZAY.
I mourn deeply for people who lose their children, their special babies. Their sick babies.
y
People, in their need to comfort you, tell you, "none of us is guaranteed tomorrow". Let me just set you straight from my perspecive...that DON"T help. period.
I love all my children the same, but I have fought like nothing I can describe for my Lillian. Because that's why what you do when they tell you she will die. You fight, you love, you cry, repeat repeat repeat. infinity. That's me anyway.
When they told us she would be mentally retarded and die, all I kept thinking about was, what have we done to our kids? what will we tell the kids? how can we prepare our kids?
Oddly, it seems like it gets harder for me each time she gets sick. It's difficult, when in the back of my mind I wonder if this sickness will be "it". How much can a tiny body take and still keep going?
This little girl, though? She gets weak, she gets very weak, but she bounces back. It takes her a while, but she does.
I wonder when I hear about people who lose their babies, their normal, healthy babies, why?? Why has our daughter been spared and theirs have not and I have guilt. Which is CUH-RAY-ZAY.
I mourn deeply for people who lose their children, their special babies. Their sick babies.
y
People, in their need to comfort you, tell you, "none of us is guaranteed tomorrow". Let me just set you straight from my perspecive...that DON"T help. period.
I love all my children the same, but I have fought like nothing I can describe for my Lillian. Because that's why what you do when they tell you she will die. You fight, you love, you cry, repeat repeat repeat. infinity. That's me anyway.
Sunday, November 1, 2015
25 Days of Lillian, Day 1, (the FIRST 25 days)
As Lillian approaches her birthday, I thought it would be fun to share her life with you. I know I do that in bits and pieces and much of her life's battles are documented in this blog, but - for those that may just be stopping by or haven't had the time to read almost nine years of life maybe I can do some brief overviewing.
The day before she was born, we celebrated Thanksgiving with Matt's sister Rita. She, along with her daughter, had made dinner for us. We had recently lost our home, I was on bedrest, and we had moved into a new place. The next morning I was going to the hospital to have some procedures done. All of that threw me into labor, and she was born in the evening on the 25th of November. Most people know, once somewhat stable, she was whisked away to the Children's hospital. In that early morning, I a wakened in a hospital room, alone, no husband, no baby. Emptiness crushed my chest. The nurse happened in the room and asked about my tears, she placed the phone in my bed and dialed the NICU number for me. I think.
Within 25 days, our daughter, our Lillian went through more in her life than most people face in a lifetime.
She had to be on a ventilator just to continue to live for the first two months of her life. Pulmonary hypertension was making her very sick. Multiple defects kept emerging in major organs, aside from breathing being a major issue.
On Dec 5th, we were given a "plan of action" the team had made their findings and were giving us the sit down. Trach, heart surgery, chromosome anomalies, mental retardation, death.
On December 8th, a tracheostomy was performed. 10 days later, her ribs were spread to remove a portion of her aorta and to close a whole in her heart.
My life stopped. Everything I knew as a parent went out the window. All I can tell you, is I faced on day at a time. Crying my eyes out each night, alone, in prayer.
Welcome. This is just the beginning.
The day before she was born, we celebrated Thanksgiving with Matt's sister Rita. She, along with her daughter, had made dinner for us. We had recently lost our home, I was on bedrest, and we had moved into a new place. The next morning I was going to the hospital to have some procedures done. All of that threw me into labor, and she was born in the evening on the 25th of November. Most people know, once somewhat stable, she was whisked away to the Children's hospital. In that early morning, I a wakened in a hospital room, alone, no husband, no baby. Emptiness crushed my chest. The nurse happened in the room and asked about my tears, she placed the phone in my bed and dialed the NICU number for me. I think.
Within 25 days, our daughter, our Lillian went through more in her life than most people face in a lifetime.
She had to be on a ventilator just to continue to live for the first two months of her life. Pulmonary hypertension was making her very sick. Multiple defects kept emerging in major organs, aside from breathing being a major issue.
On Dec 5th, we were given a "plan of action" the team had made their findings and were giving us the sit down. Trach, heart surgery, chromosome anomalies, mental retardation, death.
On December 8th, a tracheostomy was performed. 10 days later, her ribs were spread to remove a portion of her aorta and to close a whole in her heart.
My life stopped. Everything I knew as a parent went out the window. All I can tell you, is I faced on day at a time. Crying my eyes out each night, alone, in prayer.
Welcome. This is just the beginning.
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