CHD Awareness

This week marks Congenital Heart Defect Awareness week. I was not aware of CHD or not conscientious of it until we learned about Libby before she was born. She was on a prayer list at our church and I started praying for her and reading her carepage website. Spending time first hand with a child that has CHD brings lots of things into perspective. Libby has to deal with a lot of challenges each day. She came and visited us today while her family went to a musical. She is such a joy! I was reminded of all that is entailed with her care. She gags a lot and had to work up the gag to find relief, she has a feeding schedule that runs every 30 minutes and her pump broke, so this has to be done manually until it is replaced, she wears special inserts in her shoes that have to be put on with her shoes. It makes me admire her mom and dad even more. I am thankful for Libby and for what she teaches me each time I am with her. I also love to see my children interact with Libby. They have been around her so much these past two-and-a-half years, that her challenges are no surprise to them. When she gags, one of my kids will run for a towel or rag so that I can "catch" the gag, when it is time for a feeding, Reagan will often come running and lie down next to Libby. They will swing with her, jump on the trampoline with her and entertain her with their silly antics, and they do it all in a bit of a sensitive cautious way as to not hurt or scare Libby! Please take time this week to pray for these kiddos and their families and if you ever have the opportunity to support CHD I encouage you to do so!