Today marks 15 days that we have been here in the hospital. I (Erica) honestly could not have imagined that we would be here this long. I have also realized that it is rare that you have any idea how long an unexpected trip to the hospital will last. There is still no clear escape plan, but I am preparing my Jedi mind tricks to use on the doctors. Be looking for a post about going home soon, poop or no poop!
It seems like the longer we are here, the more I find myself riding the emotional rollercoaster of feeling encouraged, then plummeting to discouragement.
I have had so many thoughts, but not put a single one down on paper.
The fresh winds of hope have come over the past couple of weeks, followed by thick waves of discouragement.
This past Wednesday I had come home after being relieved by my precious mother-in-law. I had been up at the hospital for two days and was exhausted. When I got home we had to deal with some other family issues, which was honestly the last thing we needed. I had a meltdown and was just feeling like it was all too much. Robin and I dropped the boys off at youth that evening and went to dinner, then Robin left to go up to the hospital. He traded out with his mom and stayed the night.
As I was getting ready for bed, I just wanted to lay down and sleep, I was exhausted and the tears were overflowing.
On this journey it is hard to let go and let others in. Not because people haven’t offered, but because as mama and poppa, we want to know what’s going on with our girl and make sure that we keep her on the fastest track to breaking free of the hospital.
In my moment of tears and overwhelm, I felt God speak to my heart and say “you need to let people help you. Especially ones that you love and trust”.
I slept well that night, and woke up feeling less overwhelmed and ready to reach out for help.
I texted Robin’s cousin Krystal, who had offered the week before to come and stay for an evening or overnight, if we would allow her to.
Honestly, in that moment she offered, I genuinely appreciated it, but knew that it would be hard for me to let go and allow someone in to help. The ask is always so big.
I texted her Thursday morning and asked if she would be available to stay with Kennady that evening, or overnight. She replied “Absolutely! Is it overnight? Or just the evening?”
(Note here:: This is an amazing reply! It is what everyone wants when they are asking for help.
Robin stayed until Krystal arrived that evening (when she brought a whole house full of barbecue from Holy Smokes for us – D-lish).
Robin called to say that he had given her the rundown and was headed home.
I had been doing a few things with the boys and finally sat down at our kitchen table to look at social media.
I could not have been prepared for the picture I saw when I opened IG.
The relief, the heartache that was buried deep, the gratefulness, the joy, the peace, it all came flooding in. I literally started sobbing and laid my phone down.
The gratefulness that I could rest. The absolute joy that my girl was with someone that wasn’t afraid of her differences, but loved her and celebrated her. My heart felt like it would burst.
It also spoke to a deep grief that I had worked through years ago. The grief that my daughter was not able to participate in sleepovers or family cousin events. When I saw the words “she and I are both pretty excited to announce our first “Kennady sleepover”. Sheesh.
My girl, bing included and loved!! It still brings tears to my eyes.
What an unexpected gift in such a big way. My heart was so filled. I am so thankful God so gently spoke to my heart. I am thankful I got my ask out of the way. I am thankful for the wonderful gift of support and love our family has given us.
Priceless! Special-hearted people know how to make others feel special. So many mentioned here… Krystal, Kennady, mother-in-law, Robin, you. Thank you for sharing. I have learned much here. Love,
Awe, Sharon! We are so thankful to have you and Bob in our life!
Tears…pain and unknown peace and joy all mixed up together ❤️
I loved the picture. My heart goes out to you. I know this is putting a lot of stress not just on Kennady, but all of you. But I also know that God always provides the extra of whatever you need to get through it. And that is my prayer. There is truly a reward for her and all of us that will make these trials insignificant. All of this, whether we understand it or not, brings glory to God, which is our ultimate purpose.
Hang in there, we are all backing you up. Call me if you need anything. 512-468-5684.
Love,
Marilyn
So beautiful. Thank you for sharing from your heart. Praying for healing and a quick return home for Kennady and blessings and strength to your whole family.
Thank you!! We feel the strength of those prayers!
Amen, Quick recovery and hugs- to many to count!!, Thank you for sharing and being such a BIG part of OUR lives, In Jesus name praying Favor -over you All.
I LOVE YOU and your family! THANK YOU for sharing your realness with us. I want to share an affirmation with you that has helped me when I am going thru some challenging situations…so, repeat after me…lol I AM AMAZING. I AM BRAVE. I AM STRONG!
We might not see each other often or talk daily, please know I am only a phone call and text away.
Francisco and I are praying for you all and will not stop! May you continue to find rest in HIM.
Besos y Abrazos,
Mary Jane 🙂
Haha! You are too sweet, Mary Jane. We love you guys!
I have loved and cared for Kenna. I feel(not always a good response…feelings that is) ashamed. I have been on who-knows-why-we-stay-busy, mode.
I am perfect for evening or overnight. Absolutely. Put me in coach!!! I mean it. Put me in!! Text/Call asap
Continued prayers for this special girl. I love the way you love your family and they way you love and trust in God is just an overflow of love all around. You and Robin are great parents and awesome leaders to us all. Praying for healing and for Kennady to return home soon.
Hey Erica! Thank you for sharing about your beautiful daughter. I know she will come home soon and will be doing better. Your journey is a testimony for someone else one day. Your a SUPER strong woman and I hope one day to be as strong as you in any situation. I am praying for your family. Love you guys! 😘
❤️ The asking and the receiving are both hard, but so beautiful. I’m so glad your heart got a huge dose of being loved on!