Three Years of Blessings

Three years ago today I experienced one of the most priceless moments in my life...I witnessed Jordan's first moments of life. I cannot even express how I felt as I saw that tiny life emerge and heard that first precious cry as the doctors and nurses scurried to check him over and whisk him off to the NICU. Little did I know that day that we would not hear him cry again for a very long time. He went through so much in those first few days, including major surgery when he was 5 days old to insert a tracheostomy tube and a feeding tube. Daily we learned more about Stickler Syndrome and Pierre Robin Sequence and how they were affecting Jordan. There were people all across our country who were praying for him, and God answered those prayers in every way possible. As days moved into weeks, and weeks into months, Jordan went home and daily life for Melynda and Eric took on a whole new dimension. But God was there for them and gave them the strength both physically and mentally to care for a baby with special needs.

Jordan's first year was filled with doctor visits and medical procedures, home health nurses and strict schedules, trach changes and tube feedings, and all sorts of medical supplies & machines. But eventually little improvements became bigger improvements. I remember when Melynda and Jordan came for a visit when he was about 14 or 15 months old. He had just gotten a little cap which Melynda put on his trach for a few minutes at a time. This made it possible to hear his little baby noises. While most babies this age would be saying their first words, Jordan was a year behind in talking. We rejoiced in his little sounds and grunts and occasional squeal. But then one evening, he tripped over a toy and fell. And he cried. And we heard him...for the first time since Melynda and I had heard him cry in the delivery room, we heard him cry. And the two of us sat and cried with him!

Today Jordan turned 3 years old! And he is one of the brightest little kids I know. [The other bright kids I know are my other grandchildren ;)] He is right on track in every area except physical development, such as jumping with both feet in the air. He still has a couple of physical limitations that affect his speech, but in time, that, too, will correct itself...I truly believe it will. More than that, he is a sweet little guy who will melt your heart. He loves animals and can name more animals than most kids twice his age. He loves books and will sit and "read" for the longest time. He loves to play with his toys and role play through his wonderful imagination. He is a special little guy. He is a miracle.

Thank you, God, for Jordan; for every little glorious moment of his life; for showing us your mighty power and loving care in his little life.