Home Sweet Home

We are home, and cherishing every moment. It's truly a miracle that we have more time before her next surgery. It's been an emotional roller coaster, but God knows what is best for our little girl.

During her Catherization we received constant updates. They called saying they were going to try to open up her pulmonary valve by doing a balloon cath. It was unlikely that it was going to work, but it was worth the effort. Hours later Natalie came out of the procedure (already extubated), and the first thing the doctor said was she didn't need surgery. Michael and I just cried, hugged, and smiled. Samuel kept saying my baby is alright! I just love how Natalie continues to defy odds. This is nothing short of a miracle, and the best Christmas gift we could ask for.

I really struggled with this surgery. I didn't think Natalie was ready, or needed another surgery yet. Doctors know best though, so I tried to gather as much strength for her and Samuel. My heart ached and ached. It's never going to be easy taking her back for open heart surgery, but this was not the time. Natalie can grow a little more, and we can plan for our next trip.

The last day in Palo Alto we got a room in Ronald MacDonald House. My heart goes out to the families still there. We've been home for four months. There are several families still there, and will likely be there for a year or more. It's heart breaking knowing there are other kids hurting while Natalie is at home. Please take the time to pray and support these families. They need it more than you can imagine.

I don't about you, but I am so thrilled to be home with the family. We're are blessed with Lauren's company, and so grateful for her help. Samuel adores her, and of course is trying to butter her up.  Christmas is just around the corner, and we plan to make it extra special.

We need continued prayer for health. No flu, colds, etc.

Merry Christmas!

Love,

The Pierce Family

Back to California

Bags are packed! I can't tell you how anxious we are to get to California. I feel like it's been months since we found out about this surgery, yet it's only been a few weeks. Natalie had another echocardiogram last week which confirmed her pulmonary stenosis. Her gradient is actually worse than it was a month ago, so we are ready to get her little heart repaired.

The out pouring of love and support from our community, family and friends has left me speechless. My heart is full of gratitude, and appreciation. It's so reassuring knowing that we aren't going through this alone. Michael, Samuel, Natalie and I could not go through this without your encouragement, prayers, and help.

This week our family had the opportunity to take part in the Sparrow Club assembly for Natalie. The Sparrow Club encourages schools and donors to take part in adopting a medically fragile kid. I had no idea the enthusiasm of 500 elementary kids would move me the way they did. They cheered Natalie's name, sang songs, and pledged to raise $2500 to pay back the local donors. At the end of the assembly a young boy came running up to me and handed me some cash. He took every last dollar he had on him and gave it to Natalie. I don't know about you, but my heart aches with thankfulness.

This last year has changed me and my family. We don't take a moment for granted, as we know so well how precious our lives are. I savor the sweet moments with Natalie. Often it's just watching her play, or kissing her sweet chubby cheeks. I look at her with amazement and awe. I watch her with Samuel and wonder what their future holds. I wonder if she knows just how much she is loved.

Please continue to pray for our precious little girl.

Blessings,

The Pierce Family