April 12th is a day that brings not only joy into my life, but memories of heartache and uncertainty.
You see, five years ago today, the surgeon that was about to bring my granddaughter into the world bluntly said, "She'll die."
When I fist saw her lying on the table, minutes after being freed from what had been her home for less than 26 weeks, I knew she would die.
Barely 2 pounds, and 14 inches long, she was motionless, purple and I felt a fear I'd never before experienced. We couldn't lose another grandchild, my daughter couldn't have another baby die.
But the baby surprised everyone, and not only survived, but thrived.
Today she is five. She is a fighter. She is a survivor. She is the great granddaughter my mother had hoped for, but didn't get to see. Maybe God allows my mom to peer down and witness the child she'd longed for.
Here it is in pictures. The survival of Anna-Grace Elizabeth.
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| My heart stopped |
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| Her daddy's hand |
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| 25 and 5/7 weeks |
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| Nana holding her and her Papa's hand |
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| First day home, being held by my Princess, CoCo |
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| Uncle Michael admiring the Miracle |
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| Jakob holding her for the first time. |
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| Papa and the tiny bottle |
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| Surgery for heart failure at 8 months |
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| Wearing her great grandmother's cow girl boots! |
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| Last week |
24 comments:
Does she and Isiah have the same mother? She is such a pretty little girl. Very soulful eyes. I love it!
Yes, Karli is their mom. She also had Josiah at 27 weeks. She's had it tough.
This post made me cry. I'm so happy for you and your family. What a beautiful little girl! Jennifer a.k.a. Urban Gypsy Girl
Jennifer, I cried when I looked back at the pictures and saw how fragile and small she was. What a journey! Thank you :)
This brings back so many memories for me. Heidi was almost the same size 1 lb 12 oz and 13 1/2 inches. I think these little miracle girls come with special spirits--fighting spirits and gentle spirits, all at the same time.
Oh Jen, I didn't know that. So you know full well the myriad of emotions that bombard you. So glad they're both fighters!
Your granddaughter is completely and utterly adorable Diva and hearing the story of her survival has warned my heart. Sometimes doctors can be wrong and can't account for the grit and determination of humanity, that little girl is a fighter and a wonderful little angel for sure!
Thanks Yeamie! She's pretty special!
This is a truly amazing story...
She is so precious!
~shoes~
Thanks Shoes!
Happy Birthday Sweetheart
thanks for lifting us up with your miracle!
ALOHA from Honolulu
Comfort Spiral
~ > < } } ( ° > <3
Thanks Nolie!
Mahalo Cloudia!
The doctor was wrong! There is a problem when doctors get it wrong — people often lose hope. But you didn't. Nobody gave up. The Princess was the best mom she could be, under very trying circumstances. And that was good.
Happy Birthday Anna-Grace Elizabeth!
Blessings and Bear hugs to you, and all the rest of the family!
Bears Noting
As a first time grandmother my heart was broken when I held my grandson realizing my mother would never get that joy. But then I realized she held him before we did. I fully believe that loved ones who have gone before have a hand in picking the children in our lives. They whisper the wisdom of their lives into their tiny ears, sing them their first lullaby in the beauty of heaven and kiss those sweet spots of a baby's neck before handing them to us. They tell them all about our childhood and secrets only they would know. My faith in that was assured when I held a photo up of my mom to Brody one day. Diva he smiled at the pic and went nuts. Hands and arms moving and he was talking and smiling. It left Doug and I not one doubt he KNEW her long before we knew him.
There is so much strenght and beauty in your family. Peace.
Yes, Rob, he was! And we have proof!
MC, thank you, that's so sweet....
Angel, I hope so, I really hope so
Anna-Grace Elizabeth you are a beautiful reminder of God's will ... you are going to be a HUGE difference in this world! Because of you the world is a better place.
Dearest friend, you are a blessing - for sharing this beautiful miracle. Your family has been through so much and your faith, belief and strength is an inspiration to all. Many blessings to you all! Happy Birthday to your little angel. Anna-Grace Elizabeth you are 5!!! xo C. (HHL)
C, thank you so much! It's been amazing watching her grow!
I love your family. I love the strength you have shown through all the drama, trauma, and Momma moments.
You rock babe.
Queen, thank you. I channel your strength. I love you to the moon and back.
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