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October 11, 2007
God Bless You, Christopher
An update I wish I didn't have to make.
The tears began flowing down my face this morning as I read the the blog post written by Greg's wife Vanessa: The end of Christopher's Journey.
Christopher was due to go home from the hospital next week and I was extremely happy for Greg, Vanessa and Chris. He had endured so many surgeries and the news that he would finally go home was wonderful. I only wish I were there in Australia to support Greg and Vanessa and kiss Christopher's forehead, telling him what an absolutely strong and amazing little guy he was.
My deepest and sincerest condolences to Greg and Vanessa. God bless.
_____________
A Very Special Little Boy and his Parents
My friend Greg and I frequently play catch up via email but most of the time we're chatting away via Skype. On May 14, we exchanged email after being out of touch for a while and as always, I inquired about his wife Vanessa. At the time, Vanessa was pregnant with their first child, and I'd always ask Greg how she was feeling. He replied that all was good and it was now "a waiting game." Two days later, Greg emailed me that Vanessa gave birth to their son Christopher Steven on the 14th.
Chris spent his first hours in intensive care and went through round one of surgery not long after. This amazingly tough little boy has endured five surgeries to date, with a sixth planned to repair his cleft lip and insert grommets into his ear canal.
Greg's wife Vanessa created a blog documenting her pregnancy as well as their daily visits to the hospital, where Chris has remained since his birth. Christopher's Journey Inutero & Beyond: a sweet little boy with VACTERL Association details Chris's journey through his mom's eyes, as well as her thoughts and feelings.
Greg and Vanessa could easily sing "woe is me" in unison and be justified in doing so; instead, they celebrate each minute of Chris's life, no matter what. I joked with Greg that I'm the self-appointed American aunt to Chris, because this very, very special little boy who has already endured so much has a permanent place in my heart. Until I can get to Australia, it's Skype for live updates, photos and my silent prayers that the little guy continues to be as tough and strong as he can. Chris's journey has been wrought with serious issues from day one, and instead of focusing on the intense heart-wrenching moments of his life, Greg and Vanessa remain pillars of strength. It comes as no surprise that Chris is as strong as he is; he's inherited that gift from his parents. Chris is a very special little boy with a very special mom and dad.
Cindy
Comments
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Christopher was a beautiful little boy who touched a lot of folks in his short lifetime.
Brain matter deposited by: susan on October 11, 2007 4:05 PM
A candle will be lit for him tomorrow in the Abbey - and my prayers will be with his parents ...
Brain matter deposited by: The Gray Monk on October 11, 2007 4:19 PM
Thank you Cindy, for your kind words. I wish it were an update you did not have to make too. Greg and I were so very blessed to have Christopher and even though it was for such a short time, he has changed our lives forever and I shall be grateful for every emotion he allowed me to experience.
Cess xx
Brain matter deposited by: Cess on October 12, 2007 6:42 AM