Emma

Two days before Christmas, our little Emma was admitted to the hospital because she wasn't eating well. Matthew and Meghan lived at the hospital that first week, and we were all terribly worried about all of them. Sunday, December 29, Emma was having difficulty breathing, so the decision was made to send her up to Primary Children's Medical Center's main campus. It turned out to be a very scary situation--she had to be put on a ventilator and life-flighted by helicopter. She was finally diagnosed with two kinds of pneumonia, but the antibiotics and treatments did not take care of her problems. She was placed on a lung bypass machine, put on paralytic and other pain medications. Later, she had to have a lung biopsy and two chest tubes inserted. She was hooked up to so many machines with tubes and IV's. It is hard to convey the worry and frustration, hopes rising and dashed. But it is also hard to express our gratitude for the kindness of so many people. There have been so many all around the world who have prayed and fasted. Hotel rooms have been paid for so they could stay close to the hospital. Many have brought food. Others have cried with us and expressed deep love and concern. Family, friends, church members, business associates, people in the community--everyone has been so kind and caring. We have appreciated every kind word and deed. At this writing, it has been six weeks since this all began, and no solution has been found. We continue to have faith that she is in Heavenly Father's care.

                                                 

The first time we were able to hold her in weeks. It felt so good to hold her close and kiss her! This is probably the last time we will hold her before we leave on our mission.

Her loving Mom and Dad, Meghan and Matthew. They are amazing and take such good care of her!

Our sweet little Emma is working so hard to get well. We continue to pray for her.