People are just People...

One of the biggest things I have learned through my Ashley's story is that no matter where they come from people are just people. We are all the same when it comes down to it regardless of our backgrounds. We were all created with a heart that hurts, a heart that hopes, a heart that loves, and a soul that is eternal.

As I watch family after family say good bye to their tiniest members in the halls of this PICU, I have learned that no matter what the circumstance that brought their loss about it hurts just the same. As parents we desperately try to protect our children from harm, and we would all give our own lives to take the pain and discomfort and fear away from our little ones. How I wish it were only posssible. I would gladly trade places with my Ashley to spare her all that she has endured, and I know that I am not the only parent in this place that would make the same decision if only it were allowed. I know that God Himself gave this instinct to us. The instinct to want to protect them from anything that would cause them pain.

I will never understand why so many of our little friends here in Omaha have had to die, but I know that God is the one who awaits them as they enter into eternity. I was reading a book the week before Christmas and one of the lines inside of it said, "that God doesn't take people from us, but He receives them for us." How comforting a thought to know that the Creator of all things is there waiting to pick up these precious children as they enter into His heaven. I know it doesn't make the pain of losing these children go away, but it does comfort my heart to know that He loves them so very much and He is there to hold them for the mommies that can no longer.

So as I remember our tiny donor, our friend Jeremiah, our friend Connor, our friend Chloe, our friend Zachary, our friend Kilee, the young man who I never met but breathed his last breath next door to our room, and the precious 2 year old baby boy who will leave this place today, I am giving thanks to the One who gave them life for the impact they have each one had on my heart. I loved them from a distance. I prayed for them from a distance. I hugged the necks of some of their parents. I still pray for their families that have been left behind, and I will never be the same for knowing them in this place.

The pictures from our scope look beautiful and Ashley is now sleeping in her crib. We will find out the cellular results tomorrow. Thank you so much for remembering to pray for her today. Without your support I know this time in our lives would be much more difficult. You are making such a difference. Thank you Sue for feeding my husband! I know he appreciated the food, but more importantly the friendship. You are a treasure and Ash and I miss you. Take care and may God bless you all today. Trish