Thursday, May 15, 2008

GRATITUDE IN MY HEART!

I have felt once again very overwhelmed by how blessed we have been. We went up to cardiology today and all still looks well. We even get to move appointments to every other week now. Every time I go to the hospital I round the corner, see the big parking garage where my car would sit for a week at a time sometimes. I see the flag blowing and then I see Kaidence's PICU room window. I get so emotional every time and I can't tell you how many times I have made that drive. I remember once when Kaidence was in the hospital (just before the Berlin Heart) my mom took me away and tried to find me some hand stitching or something to do to keep me busy while time passed. I remember how torn I felt as I drove along the freeway and I looked east and could see the hospital sitting up on the hill and knowing that I could see my baby girls room but yet she was so far away from me.

We visited some of our PICU doctors and nurses today. I only expected to see a few nurses but before I knew it we had many others that had gathered around as well to see our little Kaidence. We miss them so much and I hope that they truly understand all that they did for our family and how grateful we are to them. It feels like home everytime we stop by to see them and never feels weird.

We have been so lucky to have so many wonderful friends and family that have supported us in so many ways. Although I could not get "Thank You's" to everyone it did not mean that your kindness did not touch our hearts. I was just so overwhelmed by Kaidence and all of the kindness that we had been shown. And no matter how hard I tried I just could not keep up and the Thank You's. So Thank You to all of you. Our family, friends, ward family, doctors, nurses, our pediatrician's office and all of you that we have never met. We are forever indebted to your kindness. Thank You to all of you that made sure our family had a wonderful Christmas to remember, it was that and so much more. Often as someone would drop something by I would close the door and just sit and sob. Thank You for all of the sacrifice that you made for our family. I have cried so much these last 10 months as people would send cards, prayers said, money would appear on our doorstep or in the mail. Christmas gifts appeared on our porch (ok, I am even crying as I write this). Rides were given to my children, meals brought in, laundry done, our house was roofed, walks were shoveled, kids babysat (sometimes overnight). Kaidence's Pediatrician and staff would come to the home to give shots and do check ups once we brought her home so that we did not have to take her out. We honestly could not have done it without all of you. Most importantly, Thank You for all of the prayers. We love you all and feel so overwhelmed and blessed to have learned the lessons that we have and to have had so many people loving and supporting our family. Please know that we are SO VERY Thankful for all you have done for us. WE LOVE YOU!!!

9 comments:

Mp said...

We are so happy with how well Kaidence is doing and think about your family often...I understand the emotional journey this has been for you and your family, but in the mist of such a trial, your family has shown so much faith - even in times that weren't so good. Thanks to your family for being such great examples to all of us! These heart children are truly special gifts from heavenly father.

Thoughts and continued Prayers,
Mike & family
IHH-VP

Em said...

Those pictures of Kaidence are what I first remember seeing her looking like. Wow, how far we all have come. I feel the same way about the doctors and nurses-they really made it possible to have had Ryker for so long! Also, I do not think you know what you have done for some many. There would be many Moms who would not go up to a hysterical mother and just hug her. The day Ryker passed away was very hard, but it was made that much easier by you, the tissues, the music, and the sweet words of strength. Thank you so much Shauntelle. Anyways, thinking of you guys and really missing you guys!
Hugs,
Emily

Anonymous said...

It sounds like Kaidences story had a great impact at the Heart Association dinner. I think that it is wonderful that you could share her story, and that you continue to share it. You and Mike and your family will never know how many people you have influenced. We love you and we are so proud of you. Aunt, Deb

Kinder family said...

Shauntelle thank you. Thank you for letting us in to such a personal part of your life. Thank you for sharing your faith and straighth with us. Thank you for alowing us all to give and be there for your family. We love your family.

Jen said...

Hi there, how was the Heart Association dinner? I heard you met my friend Jenn Foutz--that's great. Glad to hear you guys are still doing well.

Luke's family

Kim said...

You are too cute for words. I think anyone who has been able to help your family in even just small ways feels blessed to have the opportunity. You guys are amazing, and Kaidence is an ANGEL! So happy to have her back at church!

Becca said...

Shauntelle, I am so glad that Kaidence is doing so well and that your family is able to get out a little bit now. I keep hoping that we will run into you at the hospital but I think that we are going on different days now. I feel the same way about Jared's incredible health care team. They have been amazing and many of them have become such good friends. I feel that the friendships that we have made have been one of the greatest blessings that have come from the experiences that we are having!

Sid said...

I know that you do not know me but I am friends with Megan and Alyvia. As I read their blog I would read about Kaidence. You have my thoughts, prayers, and sympathies. I can not believe the road that you have traveled already and even more so I can not believe you faith! I do not think I have experienced someone with more faith than yourself. What a wonderful strength you have been and continue to be to so many that you do not even know. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and hope that things continue to get better and hope that you are comforted with the great faith that you have had thus far. May Heavnely Father continue to comfort you, Kaidence, and your family.

Sid

The McOmie Seven said...

I am so happy for you guys. You have been so strong and faithful through all of this. Kaidence is so blessed to have you as parents and you are so blessed to have her. I am so grateful for your example to all of us. Keep in touch.
Jessica