Bless Her Heart

Today is the one-year anniversary of Camdyn's Fontan...her "heartiversary," as we call it.  The last several days, I keep thinking "this time last year...we were doing CT scans...packing...cleaning...and staying out of public places."  We were soaking up every nap filled with cuddles, every giggle shared between our children, every "I love you" that could never be said enough.  We were answering endless questions...not only from our little love, but also from concerned friends, family...even strangers, at times.  We were trying hard not to be anxious, to let our nerves remain at rest in our Heavenly Father.

But it seemed nearly impossible.

We were going through the necessary motions to do what had to be done and putting everything else on the back burner.  

People tell us all the time that they don't know how we can do it.  How we can get through these experiences we've had, battling a severe medical defect that is more common than you think and less known than it should be.  The answer is simple:  WE don't get through it.  HE gets us through it.  

As much as those days seemed to drag on forever (and is only a fraction of the hospital stays experienced by so many more), it feels like we blinked and it's behind us.  And now, rather than packing for the hospital and making plans for appointments, we get to plan a big surprise party for the first heartiversary that she will be old enough to remember. And though we're rejoicing and counting our blessings, we are also mindful of how quickly that can change.  Today is a gift.  Today, she's doing really great.  Tomorrow could always be different.

My dearest Camdyn, we are so proud of you, honey.  Your bravery and courage to face this mountain you've been forced to climb are a huge testament to your Creator.  Always have hope, always persevere, always be who God created you to be.  Be strong, but don't be afraid of weakness.  In our weakness, He shines through stronger.  Let Him complete His perfect work in you, my sweet pea. 

Today, we will celebrate with red heart decorations, a little gift, and a HUGE surprise party tonight...with somewhere around 70 people.  SEVENTY!  What a blessed way to celebrate our baby.  We've been able to keep it a surprise for her, and it's totally possible that she may freak out at first, but I just know she will love it.  We've been looking forward to doing this since we started planning it during our hospital stay last summer.  We are so grateful, so blessed, joyously overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and support.  

HAPPY BIG RED HEART DAY!  Let's get the party started!!