Then & Now

 Hi friends! Well, a week has gone by since Lilee had a valve replacement surgery at Sacred Heart. Funny how quickly life passes in the everyday, but creeps along while waiting in the hospital. Funny how we can become so reflective, while our attentions are concentrated on the issue at hand. 

While reflecting on this past week, I can’t help but compare Lilee’s 2007 surgery to this one. The first round, we were at Lucille Packard Children’s Hospital at Stanford for 17 days, waiting for an opening for surgery and recovery afterward. This round, we made an appointment, the hospital and staff were ready and we were coming home 4 1/2 days after surgery. 

I captured the above photo 2 days after surgery. We had moved to a room at the end of the PICU hall, in a double occupancy room without a roommate. The crib is so similar to the crib Lilee was in at Stanford in 2007. It is dim, which is a reminder that I still remember that first surgery ordeal, but now, Lilee is so much older and resting in a hospital bed. 

God is still God. God was faithful to heal and move us through that hard time. Our life with Lilee has been unhindered by her heart. God is still faithful and unchanging, wanting us to remember what He’s done, but excited to see what He’s doing! This is embodied in this photo, to me. 

It could be that I’m rambling and this blog just helps this crazy-tired mama to process my PTSD. Ha! Or, if anything, I want to be clear to give God the praise for what He’s done and what He’s doing!  

Today, Lilee continues to heal and progress beautifully! She walks further and stronger, daily. Her appetite has returned, as well as school work, but with her happy attitude, I’m so glad to begin to return to normal life. Grandparents returned home, laundry is still in process and just like that... surgery is in the past. Strange, but wonderful. 

We send all our love to you, sweet friends. Thank you for being on the journey with us... we couldn’t do it without you! 

*A very special thank you to our friends who have brought meals this week! Wow! So blessed with yummy food!!! Also, our church family at Legacy and the TLC from our neighbors and family bringing beautiful flowers!!!*

Many, MANY hugs,

The Finch Family