Monday, February 9, 2009

7 pieces of advice for a CHD parent

Yeah, I don't know if I'm very good at this, it's easy to give advice...but really hard to take it. So, if I were the perfect parent who never worried, here is what I would say to someone, because of course, I would be practicing what I am preaching.
  1. 'Let go, and let God.' As I stated before, I am learning this, but it is a work in progress.
  2. 'One day at a time.' I believe this, but last night I couldn't sleep because I was having panic attacks thinking about Jameson's 3rd surgery, 1 1/2 years away! Another work in progress.
  3. Usually there are 'two steps forward and one step back.' With every good day Jameson had during his hospital stay, it was usually followed by a not so good day(s).
  4. 'Enjoy every day as if it were your last.' I don't have this down, but I try. Sometimes I do have to throw myself a pity party.
  5. Take a bunch of pictures. I took so many pictures before, during and after Jameson's surgeries. It is so hard to look back at them now, but when I do, I'm amazed at how God's amazing grace got us through it! Also, don't forget all of the day to day pics. Those are fun ones to look back on.
  6. Go with your gut. Always listen to yourself, even if you are a bit neurotic (that's me). You could end up saving your child's life.
  7. Pray, pray, pray. Make sure everyone you know, knows that they need to be praying for your little one. Assign family members certain prayer requests to pray for every day...this is what I am about to do for J's 3rd surgery!

3 comments:

  1. I love your posts! I just started my 7 today..I'm a little behind! When is the next surgery?? You're in my prayers!!

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  2. I think you gave great advice! :) So glad to visit with you yesterday!! Looking fwd to more fun times ahead. -kel

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  3. LM,

    You are a great advocate for CHD and have such an uplifting spirit. I will be praying for these children and please call me to assign a daily prayer request for Jameson.

    Love, Jane

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