Our Baby Ben

I've gotten so many e-mails asking for Ben updates. It's been hard to find the time to answer anyone, besides it's emotionally draining to write. I thought I'd spend some time tonight while it's quiet and share some thoughts. I don't even know how to begin this post. So many thoughts and feelings are running through my mind and my heart. Watching Aaron and Courtney go through the things they have these past 19 days has overwhelmed me. My heart has ached for them. As a parent you always want to protect your children, to take what hurts away, but this time I could do nothing. Except pray for them and baby Ben with all my heart and all the faith I could muster. My testimony has grown as I've watched them react to each challenge that they, and Ben, have faced with faith and courage. Heavenly Father has not left them alone. He has been beside them, holding them up, never failing. Today we are hoping the bad days are over. We are hoping that only good days lay ahead. 19 days ago Ben lay in the PICU on a ventilator and in a coma. Days came and went and there was no good new. Three days ago though, good things began to happen. He began opening his eyes. Everyday more and more. Ben began to smile. He began to make the sweet little sounds babies make. Best of all he became calm. A sense of calm just came over him. I so wanted his pain to go away and I believe it has. Then today, he drank from a bottle. First time in his little life and he did it. We've been praying for miracles, they are happening. Tonight I got to hold my sweet baby grandson for the second day in a row. We sang, we talked and I told him how much I loved him...A Bushel and a Peck and a Hug around the Neck. That's how much. I'm not sure how to tell you all how much your faith, love and prayers for our family have meant to us. Your kind notes, gifts and thoughtfulness has meant more than you'll ever know. I've read and heard about people who have had situations like this happen in their families. Of the outpouring of love sent their way. I didn't understand until now, the strength it gives. You have all literally lifted us up. you have helped to bring about our miracles. Ben's recovery is just beginning. He has many more challenges to face. We'll take it one day at a time. Please continue to pray for him. Pray for Aaron and Courtney strength, comfort and courage, please. We thank you so much for everything you have done for our little family. We have truly felt you love.