Update #45

BLOG: Feb 25, 2012

So... Chaser is starting to say words!!! We have moved on from head nods (he has those down), thumbs up thumbs down (consistently proven he has tackled - ie his hearing exam!), and obviously no more one blink yes two blink no's. So! Today he said opposites - his speech therapist would say "up" and he would say "down." he can say "mom" perfectly - yes!!! And we are just building. He always makes noise when prompted.

He is working so hard on words and really wants to talk. What was happening was that his body would answer "no" by: signing, putting up one finger, shaking his head and blinking - so, now it's all speech. His words (except for no and mom) sound mumbled - but it's only day two and I am hopeful!

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Feb 26, 2016
I still cannot believe that 6 Sundays ago, Justin and I woke up at 4:30 in the morning ready to board our flight home. We made sure that the kids presents were in the carry-on because we were sure we would get bombarded with the usual "what did you get us??" as we walked in the door. I pictured their faces and scrolled through their pictures as we landed.

I didn't realize that just 30 minutes later I would be at my only son's bedside watching him fight for his life. I don't recall much after that, but what I do recall is looking into my loved ones faces and asking "will he die? Will he die?" I was in shock. My body was in breakdown mode.

That first night though, I remember everything. I remember the peace I felt as I load next to chase listening to the machines keeping him alive. I remember the feeling of comfort, warmth and an overwhelming sense of peace that washed over my mind and body like a blanket - a comforter. I am so grateful that we are here and that chase is still continuing to progress. He is amazing and I know that he has angels helping him re-learn everything.

He fed himself today and is just an amazing spirit and child.

We are so grateful for the prayers, meals and well wishes. My heart is full today as chaser gets to come to sacrament meeting (church) with me here at the chapel - and then come home with me for a pass until 8pm!!! 8 hours as a complete family, I have wanted this moment for 6 Sunday's. We got yummy authentic pastas that we got with a gift card my mom left me (she's the best!) and we are going to snuggle chaser in and just be.

I am grateful for the atonement and what my Savior has done for me. I'm grateful that He gave me a second chance with Chase on this earth ... I will always carry these last 6 Sunday's and the ones to come in my heart. Life is so precious and as a wise man once said "don't sweat the small stuff, and it's all small." genius.

Tomorrow, chase has no restriction on food - regular menu!! He can eat whatever he wants!

Please pray for continued speech, his right leg to awaken and strengthen as well as walking. He rode the bike twice last week! I'm telling you - everyday a miracle with this boy.

Just think, 6 Sundays ago I was asking for prayers that my sweet boy would wake up ... How far we have come - miracle.

Slow and steady

Jen