1.31.22 Trach Floor 98

Rounding the final curve and the cheering has already begun among those around us. Ed joined us so that we can cross the finish line together. Aimee had an amazing day today full of energy and smiles. She has been interactive, which is rewarding to see. She is definitely feeling the change in vibe. 

We’ve been making our rounds through different specialists and team members asking last minute questions, making little changes, and setting up plans. Going home is intimidating this time. A lot has changed. It is almost difficult to deal with the cheering. We aren’t leaving much behind here. All of the care is coming with us. However, we will be home. And our focus will be on keeping it that way. Getting to the point of taking Aimee home has been a big group effort. We are so grateful for each person who has shouldered that effort with us. Thank you. 

Living here is feeling normal. Leaving is completely unreal and, as I mentioned last time we discharged, we are numb to a lot of feeling. It is difficult to picture what life will look like from here. I am hopeful that we will able to spend this Spring and Summer outside planting seeds and picking flowers. That Aimee’s nose will be a canvas of freckles. That all the kids will be piled in Aimee’s bed listening to audiobooks. That Aimee will laugh through family movie night. That she will get to soak up the warmth from the fireplace. How will it all work in the real world? How will we be able to manage her care and keep her safe? I don’t know, but we sure will surround her with love and laughter and music and snuggles and flowers and fresh air every single day that we can. 

I am cautiously looking forward to celebrating Christmas with our whole family together this coming Saturday. Together. Ed and I. Aimee and Caleb and Elliot and Walter and Louisa. All of us. Between now and then there are some mountains to climb that feel daunting. It doesn’t seem that being home could possibly bring rest to our traumatized hearts, yet I hear in my inner ear almost daily Jesus words, 

“Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.””

‭‭Matthew‬ ‭11:28-30‬ ‭NLT

I believe that we will not carry our pure gold girl alone.