Joshua

My mom is trying to keep this blog updated, but I thought I would add a few thoughts while I have a minute. It is interesting to think from time to time how you might handle some of life's great challenges. The one thing I've learned is that there isn't any way that you can prepare your emotions for the task.

The past few days have been a roller coaster. Joshua's umbilical cord had a tear in it and so after going through full labor (without an epidural) we had to stop and do an emergency C-section during the pushing phase. As a result of the tear, Joshua lost a lot of blood and his heart wasn't beating when he was delivered.

The loss of blood caused multiple organs to begin to fail. They drove him over to the NICU at University Medical center, where they have cooled his body temperature and paralyzed him in hopes of regaining function in his little body.

The Joshua of the Old Testament had to have courage, strength and faith in the Lord. He learned that with the help of the Lord impossible things could happen.

Every day right now is a new challenge. We have good moments and bad ones. For every step forward there are at times three steps we take backwards, but I am writing this today, because things for the first time have looked better. Joshua has a lot of fluid in his body, which has caused him to swell up quite a bit. His kidneys have started to work, but if we can get them to improve, then some of the problems associated with the excess fluid could be corrected. His heart is looking better then it ever has and his lungs are doing okay.

This afternoon they will do a brain scan. This is probably one of the more worrisome things because of all the excess fluid. We are hoping that his brain and organs will fully recover, but there is high probability of brain damage. We keep praying for miracles but are grateful for each step that we can take in the right direction.

Thank you for your prayers. We feel them and appreciate the effect they are having on our family. We will keep you posted. Hopefully more good news will follow. We are so thankful for helping hands and the presence of the Lord in our lives. I don't know how we could go through this experience without Him. We love you all, and thanks again for everything.