One year ago today, Drew was having his third open-heart surgery. This picture is what we saw after waiting 12 hours for him to come back from the OR.
I woke up early this morning and couldn't go back to sleep. Maybe my body remembers that a year ago I was up at this time. We were already at Stanford waiting in the PACU. Drew was dressed in his hospital gown, hungry, but waiting patiently. I was scared and anxious but trying not to show it.
It's funny, because I don't remember this day as one of the worst of my life, which is how I remember the day of his diagnosis. In fact, until today I wasn't even sad. I just couldn't believe how quickly the time had gone by, that it's already been a whole year. In some ways it seems like surgery wasn't that long ago, the wounds are still so fresh. But in other ways, it does seem like a lifetime ago. Look what Drew is doing today! He has so much more energy, he's gotten taller, he's been healthier (no hospitalizations for a whole year!), he's playing t-ball and soccer and going to kindergarten next year. This year has been one of incredible progress.
But this morning, as I sit alone in the quiet of my house, and think back to that day, it makes me cry. It was one of the hardest things I've ever gone through. I hope I never have to do it again. But the reality of life with a heart kid is that you never know...Drew may need another surgery in the future, and if he does, I'll be right there with him doing it all over again.
This is Drew one year later-strong and happy!
15 comments:
Happy Heart Anniversary Drew! You are such a tough lil guy and obviously make your Mommy very proud! Happy day for your entire family, Andrea! :)
WOW! I am so glad you sought out that 2nd, it made all the difference. Such an awesome advocate!
Love you!
Wow, I can't believe that was already a year ago!
I love reading about Drew and Ava and all of their little accomplishments, and this one, is HUGE! :)
Go Drew!
I remember how much love was in the waiting room that day, how it almost seemed peaceful. almost. and waiting. and praying. and finally going in to see drew, and asking you if i could pet his head (without the protest he usually gives me).
driving to stanford, i was always so anxious to see you all and to try and make you and dan smile, and even to hear drew tell me "no laughing!"
and we all missed you and thought of you so much! waiting with life group in the backyard, we were just so excited to see you all and hug you and welcome you back to your home, which is always too quiet without you.
and although us heart-outsiders can't really understand how it's been, we have at least one thing in common with you: if drew does need a surgery again, we'll be right there with you too, doing it all over again.
remember the love that you are surrounded by, and honor your feelings today. you're a strong momma tiger for your baby, but your heart needs care as well. i love you all SO much!
ps drew is such a sweet little muscle-man in that pic :-)
Praise God for Drew's amazing progress this year and for the amazing parents that he has given Drew!!
KRistina
his transformation has been incredible to watch this year. go, little guy, go! and although it's unwavering, so cute to see a declaration of love to him + those long hospital days. fingers crossed forever.
Wow, I can't believe it has already been a year! He is one amazing little boy and so handsome in that picture. I am so happy for your family that he is doing so well.
Woohoo to Drew!!!! I've only known you for about a year, and the changes in Drew have been phenominal. Your pride for him shines through in everything you do. So much to celebrate for this little man!
YAY for such an amazing year in progress for Drew, lots of awnsered prayers and for such an amazing little boy!!
Aw, I love the strong man picture. So cute!
Yay for Drew! I didn't know you a year ago, but it's amazing how much can change in a year. : )
Carey
YEAH for Drew!!!
LOVE those muscle pics! He's going to be a ladies man for SURE!
Happy Heart Day, Drew!
Wow, he sure has come a long way in a year. Here's to many more healthy, energy-filled years! xo
p.s. LOVE the muscle pic, too. Soo cute. :)
We love you Himmelbergers! Drew is amazing. I'm sorry you had to go through it, but I know you'd do it again in a "heartbeat" if that was what Drew needed.
That last picture had me in tears. I am SO proud of him! What a great year for Drew.
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