Thursday, September 25, 2008

What Are The Odds?

Have you ever heard that it comes in 3's? Well, I hope that is true.

You all know about Ethan and his congenital heart problems and all the challenges that come with that. Also, I wrote a post a few months ago about my my sister Karalee's son Austin (who is 7) who was just diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy. He actually got to make a wish last Saturday through the Make a Wish Foundation to go to Disney World. It was a very special and emotional afternoon. It was also a little bitter-sweet knowing that Ethan will be granted a wish one day when he is older. Although the Make a Wish Foundation is truly an amazing organization, you never want to be in a position to use their services.

Anyway, those were numbers 1 & 2. My brother Darren and his wife Jenn just gave birth to a sweet little girl on Monday night. I was in shock to hear on Tuesday morning that she was being transferred to the local children's hospital for surgery. It turns out that she has Downs syndrome, an imperforate anus, and an AV canal heart defect. She had surgery to create an ostomy on Tuesday and now she just needs to grow for a few months until she will need open heart surgery to correct her heart defect. I was able to go up and see her last night and she is just beautiful. She is also doing amazingly well.

Darren and Jenn have been such an example of strength and are handling it all much better than I would have. They have both said that the Downs syndrome is not a big deal but were both pretty upset when they found out about her heart defect. Of course they are feeling the array of crazy emotions that come with ALL of this but they really appear to be keeping it together. I just know what a mess I was with Ethan and they have shown much more strength than myself.

So, honestly, what are the odds that 3 completely different medical conditions happen in the same family when there is absolutely NO family history of ANY of this on either sides of our families? I am not sure what the odds are, but I do feel that it is no accident. Looking back at my experience with Ethan, there were countless things that were prepared for us before he was even born. I feel that these children have chosen us and trust us to love and care for them in our homes.

Now, this is not to imply that all the other children aren't special as well. I just know that these children are here for a reason and that our family is better because of them. I also know that it is a privilege to have them in our family and we have had and will continue to have many blessings because of them.

----Allison

9 comments:

The Gatherum Family said...

It truly blows my mind. I can't quite wrap my thoughts around it and keep thinking that this must be one big, bad joke. I just posted about Addie too. I agree with you, Darren and Jenn are AMAZING. So are you and Tim. I c-o-u-l-d n-o-t do it. Really. Anyways, you guys, austin and addie are in our prayers...

Ty and Ber said...

WOW!! You guys all have a lot on your plates. My heart aches for you all. I am amazed with the strength that you all have! I know that you and your family with be blessed because of these trials and pray for your continued strength!

~Rachel said...

It is hard to believe all that you and your family are having to face and go through right now. You are so right that each of these children are a blessing to your family. During everything you all will go through this is so important to remember. Our prayers are with you and your siblings and their children.
Love you all!!!
Rachel

Melanie said...

Seriously though!!!! I couldn't believe it when my mom told me the other day. Craziness! Not to mention Bryan being so far away too! This last year has just been nutso for your family and I'm impressed with EVERYONE. I was thinking about how to call in and put names on the prayer rolls at the temple, and for simplicity's sake figured just putting "The Gatherum's" would be the simplest and most comprehensive. We love you all!

Heidi Sue said...

I was blown away when I talked to your mom today. I hope the best for all of you. I am glad to hear that you are all very positive, that is one of the main keys. I will keep you all in my prayers.

Fowers Family said...

Hey Allison,

I am so sorry to hear about the news, but as you and I talk about all of the time, we must be grateful for our blessings and all babies are a blessing! I love and miss you too. I really will try and call this week as I haven't lived up to my promises in the past. Jody

The Hood's said...

Congratulations on the new arrival! I am so sorry to hear about all of her struggles! All of us know from experiences that God watches over us and he will comfort her and all of you guys in the time of need. I hope that all goes well and that they can have her home soon! Camille

Holli said...

Hey babe
You are more than welcome to stop by anytime and get another book. I told you they were awesome books I would never lead you astray. I did Jenn's hair today she seemed to be in good spirits!

Syncopa said...

Congrats on your new niece!! My daughter is now 8, and she was born with Down Syndrome as well. When your brother and his wife start looking for info and other parents of kids with DS, www.downsyn.com is a great place to start!
Glad to hear the little girl is doing fine, and wishing for a smooth OHS. You have been given a gift. She will teach you Love in a way you never thought possible. :-)