Wednesday, September 10, 2008

A year ago today...

Autumn has always been my favorite time of year. I love the crisp air and the changing leaves. I love the fall holidays and starting of school. There is just something about fall that brings a calm feeling over me.

The other day as I found some quiet time and was reflecting on my life, I realized that exactly one year ago today, Ethan went in for his 2nd surgery. It brings back so many memories when I think back to all that has happened during this time. The majority of these memories are happy ones and continually remind me how very blessed we have been as a family.

As well as looking back over this last year, my mind wanders and I can't help but think forward to the events destined to take place next autumn. We are currently in a "quite period" when it comes to Ethan's health. True, he's had some small issues, but its been manageable and I guess that is expected when you only have half of a heart. And although (so far) it has been a quiet year, as this next year progresses, Ethan's health is expected to decline as he grows which will indicate when his 3rd surgery will be needed. We've been told by our cardiologist that even if he doesn't grow out of his current "plumbing" by then, we should expect to have his Fontan surgery next fall.

Typically, Spring is associated with new beginnings. However, as much as I dread his next surgery, I am grateful that it will be the Fall which will bring Ethan another chance to live a more "normal" life.

---Allison

3 comments:

Alison (Abby's Mom) said...

As usual, you and I are in the same frame mind. This past year has been a quiet one for us as well, but I know that for us too, the upcoming year will challenge us. I'm just thankful to have another hearth mom to share this with.

Melanie said...

Crazy how that puts things into such perspective.

The Simmons Family said...

I'm so glad that Ethan is doing so well! I keep reflecting back on this year and wonder "how did I get through it all?" I think that as heart moms, we are just built differently. Hopefully Ethan's final surgery will go by smoothly and he'll be that much healthier. In the meantime... just enjoy the now!!

Andrea