Awards and Beauty

While we were in the hospital, some friends observed a family returning to the PICU for a visit.  Our friends commented to themselves that one day that will be Steve and Anna.  A return visit to the PICU was something we hoped would be us, but were not certain of during that time.  The prospect of Isaiah being well again seemed like something so far off to even hope for.

 Strangely enough, during our visit, I felt at home.  It was such a blessing to go and see the beautiful faces of the individuals who walked us through during that difficult time.

 Nurse K, on the left, worked so, so, so, so, so, so tirelessly for Isaiah.  She treasured him and watched him so vigilantly.  She also helped educate us on different symptoms, etc. and helped calm our nerves when we were losing our way.  She commented during our visit that she would leave from her shift and  "just cry" because she was so happy one of her patients had such great support from family.  She is very passionate about what she does and always reminded us when she left that Isaiah would get better and that things would be ok.  Nurse K is so passionate about her job that she is pictured here after giving a presentation on how to improve care for patients.

Miss A, on the right, is the Child Life Specialist.  She made Isaiah's visit, and that of his sisters', exciting when she would bring them endless toys and games to play.  Talking with her is like talking to a dear friend.  What a gift such a job is for both her and the patients.

 Pictured here with him are two of the nurses that took care of him and Dr. J, who was always keeping tabs on Isaiah and would often ask us, "How's mom doing?"  He is tender hearted and brought a strength and peace to the room whenever he would visit.  Doesn't he just look perfect for his job????

Isaiah was the recipient of the "Hero of the Month" wish program given out by Kids Wish Network.  He was nominated by one of his nurses.  He received balloons, a t-shirt, and a Walmart gift card, which he intends to use on Legos ;)

Here is what his nurse, who nominated him, said:

"Isaiah was sledding with his dad when he fell off suffering a Grade 5 kidney laceration, renal hematoma, ileus, anemia and ureteral leak.  He was flown to HCMC for treatment which included a surgical repair and stent placement.  Post-surgery Isaiah experienced respiratory failure and remained intubated for a week.  After extubation Isaiah experienced what doctors believed was ICU delirium/psychosis.  He was unable to speak, experienced dystonic movements of his face, withdrawl symptoms that included tremors and agitation and a sore throat that left Isaiah afraid to even take a sip of water.  After several days and extensive support from his parents and hospital staff Isaiah was able to speak again and regain control of his body. He was off pain medications, eating, up walking around and able to watch cartoons in the morning like a normal five year old.  After 16 days in the hospital, separated from his two older sisters, friends and a semblance of normal life Isaiah was finally able to go home.  His struggle doesn't end there, however, as he will continue to need a foley catheter for 10 more days, regain his strength and recover and continue with multiple follow-up appointments.  Isaiah has been through a great deal, but he persevered.  He worked hard at his therapies with speech and PT and progressed quickly.  He never complained but was always a respectful, polite young man."

Nothing in this life will ever make me more proud of my child than to read about his beautiful character and caring nature.  He did impress all of us with his willingness to do whatever anyone asked, regardless of intense pain at times.  He was truly a light in the darkness and put a smile on our faces.

While he was intubated and on heavy sedation medication he would calm when we asked him to. He would reach out and try to hug us and cried when he couldn't quite satisfy his longing to touch us.  We missed hearing his voice and cuddling with him during that time.  Once he was extubated, he asked for a kiss and a hug and kissed us and hugged us for a long time.  He is a joy and a delight.  What a gift we have been given to be able to watch him grow each and every day.  We do not take it for granted.

 Here is Nurse A taking Isaiah out for a walk once he was making improvements.  She was so great and even made this sign so that we could make sure Isaiah got the peace and quiet he needed in order to   recover.  It was great she was working when we came back to visit.  She even showed us that they still had Isaiah's popsicle stick picture in the nurses station.  I'm happy they got to see Isaiah well and experience a bit of his personality.

Six months ago he was released from the hospital.  On that exact day, June 13th, he was dancing the night away at our friend's wedding.  Awesome.