View Full Version : LISA IS FAMOUS! BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS! MAW DREAM come true! UPDATE 6/1 Morning at Epcot
Pages :
[
1]
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
blessedmom4
10-25-2011, 05:22 AM
Planning....EIGHT YEARS!
Waiting....SEVENTEEN MONTHS!
Postponements....TWICE!
Stopping Traffic on Main Street....PRICELESS!
And DEFINITELY worth the wait!
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/ScannedImage112990000.jpg
I realize our TR is VERY long. Please don't give up on it. If you don't have time for all of the fun or the life updates, just click on Post Three (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43050168&postcount=3) to go directly to the Table of Contents to read about the most TRULY AMAZING Make a Wish Trip EVER!
Our daughter, Lisa was born with a Congenital Heart Defect. She has had multiple health issues throughout her life and this made her eligible for a Make a Wish Trip...We were told when she was three weeks old she would be able to make a wish when she turned three years of age. OUR decision was to wait until she was old enough to make the wish herself...otherwise it would have been our wish, not hers. We also wanted her to be old enough to remember experiencing her wish. Our PTR was VERY LONG, Click here to read all about it and see some great pics/videos! (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2572447) I have included some of the links here, in post 6, so you can get to the meat of most of our Pre trip planning (I still need to update the Table of Contents on my PTR, ore posts not listed).
I thought of many clever and what I considered witty names for this TR. They were all very fitting to what happened:
It's Like Childbirth...You Forget the Bad Stuff... (still my favorite, I think) :lmao::rotfl2::lmao:
Main Street will NEVER be the same.
How much excitement can one child take????
You thought YOU got Pixie Dust?!? Just WAIT!!!!
Disney has some of the BEST and WORST Employee's!!!
I sat back and let the blessings flow.
Universal~ NOT ONE SMART/RUDE REMARK!
Lisa is FAMOUS! A Make a Wish DREAM come true!
If you don't like the first answer, ASK SOMEBODY ELSE!
Is she Disney's newest Princess?
How many outrageous things can you say to one family?
Have YOU ever changed clothes on the monorail?
In the end, I went with Sweet and Touching...because that sums up this ENTIRE trip! I have faith that can move mountains (and has) and I live with God's miracles every day! I am a TRULY blessed Mom and Thank the Lord HOURLY for those Blessings. Don't believe I am blessed? Stay Tuned...
I realize this TR is LONG! If you just want the highlights, scroll to post three and click on the links (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43050168&postcount=3) in the Table of Contents!
blessedmom4
10-25-2011, 05:23 AM
Lisa's Wish was TO BE FAMOUS AT DISNEY!
My Wish is... to go to Disney World with my Mom, Dad, Christian, David and Rachel (YES)
I wish to be the family that rides the train in with all of the characters and open the park. NO
I wish to dance on stage with the Beast at the Beauty and the Beast show. NO
I wish to be in a parade (GKTW has a parade every night, so yes)
I wish to have lunch in the castle and eat with Belle and Rapunzel (YES, sort of Belle was there, although she didn't eat with us)
What I REALLY want to do is sleep in Cinderella's Castle, but my Mama says they will not let me. NO
I want to eat berries from the bush's in the maze (We still don't know what she was talking about). NO
I wish to go to the Halloween Party (YES)and meet all of the Princesses I love and meet Dopey. NO
I wish to dance with Prince Charming NO
I want to walk down an empty Main Street NO
I wish to become a Princess at the BBB in Downtown Disney(YES)
I wish to sing Canada (by Eva Avila) in Epcot (we aren't Canadian, lol). NO
I want to be famous and have everyone at Disney know who I am. (YES)
I wish to ride in a Limo, so everyone knows I am famous. (YES)
I wish to swim with the dolphins. (YES)
I wish to have a beautiful rose like Beast gave me and that will never die (YES)
EVERY DAY I heard something new she wanted to do on her Wish Trip...
While she might not have achieved her every wish...she loved every thing that happened. It will help sustain her (and us) through the next difficult few weeks as we embark on yet another medical journey, ten hours from home with lots of pain, needles, another cardiac cath and open heart surgery numbers 4 and 5 looming. WE need continued prayers and LOTS of them please!
blessedmom4
10-25-2011, 05:24 AM
DAY 1 of our Bountiful Blessings!
Luscious Limo. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43111604&postcount=60)
Airports, Car Rentals and LOTS of smiles! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43162779&postcount=137)
Meet me at the Train Station. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43187668&postcount=181)
May I have Two???? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43209266&postcount=252)
A HUGE SURPRISE! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43387161&postcount=505)
Christmas at GKTW (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43456994&postcount=587)
DAY 2 of our Bountiful Blessings!
Scooby Doo and Mysterious Phone Calls (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43709261&postcount=947)
Rides, Wands and Butter Beer (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43769365&postcount=1010)
Oh the PLACES YOU'LL GO!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43788698&postcount=1051)
I've Met Some Of My Best Friends In The Bathroom! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43883974&postcount=1205)
Rachel Rocked the HOUSE OF BLUES!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43973382&postcount=1341)
NO FLIGHT??? How about Jacuzzi and Pizza Instead. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43996592&postcount=1421)
DAY 3 of our Bountiful Blessings!
The ONLY way to see Orlando!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44002836&postcount=1438)
Pool and Good Friends...That's what I am talking about! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44046163&postcount=1524)
There's a Party going on right here.... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44100278&postcount=1599)
That looks like a BUNNY putting me to sleep...and I DON'T mean my Mama! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44248625&postcount=1805)
DAY 4 of our Bountiful Blessings!
Another Miracle for the Castle Sky... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44356123&postcount=2016)
Toy Story Fun! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44527589&postcount=2245)
You're traveling through another dimension...NO WAIT! Your on BROADWAY!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44570889&postcount=2309)
Ladies and Gentleman...Your NEXT American Idol! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44709806&postcount=2421)
We Should Have Never Left Hollywood... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44752731&postcount=2473)
DAY 5 of our Bountiful Blessings!
I think the WISH FAMILIES need Handlers. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44930392&postcount=2777)
Blizzards, Fights and FRIGHTS! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44932854&postcount=2788)
DAY 6 of our Bountiful Blessings!
Tuesday Morning at GKTW (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44973280&postcount=2895)
Scariest Night of All!!! MNSSHP :( (www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=44997858&postcount=2938)
DAY 7 of our Bountiful Blessings!
Bittersweet Good-Bye (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45036129&postcount=2980)
Welcome To Our VERY Special Guests! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45038599&postcount=2989)
DAY 8 of our Bountiful Blessings!
The Day Started Out Well. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=45052816&postcount=3013)
DAY 9 of our Bountiful Blessings!
DAY 10 of our Bountiful Blessings!
blessedmom4
10-25-2011, 05:25 AM
Reserved Table of Contents Part Deux
blessedmom4
10-25-2011, 05:25 AM
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Children%20at%20Pumpaws%20Memorial/daed1edb.jpg
This will be a fair and accurate account of what happened on our trip. I promise there will laughs, tears (mostly mine), outrage and magic beyond measure. I will NOT sugarcoat things, if it happened, good OR bad...you will hear it. Far too often in life we gloss over things, which cause lots of grief to those whose own expectations can't meet the "hype". I will share both the good, the bad, and the AMAZINGLY SPECTACULAR! Prepare to be shocked, surprised and amazed. This truly WAS a trip of a lifetime and we are forever Thankful to those who made it SENSATIONAL!!!!
For a detailed look at WHO we are and more on the story of our journey to making Lisa's wish, please read this post (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=38522863&postcount=3). You will learn FAR MORE about us than you ever wanted to know...but it sums up who we are pretty well. I will give a short synopsis here.
Judy (Author of this TR, age unknown...but DEFINITELY too young to have a 21 year old). Wife, Mom, Nurse, Homeschool Mom...and an INCREDIBLY BLESSED woman! I drive on average several thousand miles each month. I average 7 MD appointments each week for the children, often many more. We have OT, PT and speech therapy appts weekly and I do therapy daily with each child who lives at home. I have lost over 100 pounds, although I need to lose a lot more, as you will soon see in the photos I post. I am sort of a Pollyanna, always BELIEVING things will turn out well in the end...but I am a realist as well. I don't let things get me down long, and don't do well with negativity...although I have a quirky sense of humor, as you probably saw from my title choices for this TR. My biggest pet peeves I think are dishonesty and jealousy. I don't meet a stranger...if you can't talk to me, you can't talk to anyone...and I have the most amazing children on the planet! Just ask me!!!
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/CIMG2532.jpg
Pete, my life partner and husband. He sometimes visits the DIS, although he rarely signs in. Pete is a former Marine, highly decorated, and served in the first Gulf War, leaving me at home with a two week old baby to fend for ourselves...that is a story in and of itself...He suffers some health issues himself (see PTR if you want more details) and most of his docs think it all stems from his service; however, you will never get the government to admit to that. He has a pituitary adenoma and a secondary (benign) brain lesion. He is a great Dad and helps me around here as much as I ask him to...he doesn't always feel great; however, that is a story for another place...(chime in honey to tell more about yourself)...He enjoys playing guitar, watching vintage cartoons and Andy Griffith...and knows how to mop the floor, although he doesn't do it too often. He loves Disney as much as I do, we would go every year if we could! As with everything, he leaves all of the planning to me...then doesn't follow the plan, as you will see!
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/DSC02699.jpg
Christian, 21, our first born son. Senior in college on several Academic Scholarships and Grants. Glad it is almost over for him, since he started much of his funding has been cut by the downturn in the economy and it is getting more difficult to come up with all of his tuition, even with some loans he had to take out. He is studying Communications with a focus on Interactive Game Media and Computer Science. He is a truly amazing big brother and very different than most 21 year old men I know. He actually LIKES spending time with us, lol! He enjoys computers, video game design and has a beautiful voice. He performed a lot in high school (singing and acting), not at all in college.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/DSC07663.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/fa34c2d6.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/4df43cbf.jpg
David is 17 and has his own health issues, the most worrisome diagnosis is His Pseudotumor cerebrii/Intracranial Hypertension. He is diagnosed with High Functioning Autism, although he looks more like what people think of with Asperger's. He is a BUSY young man, and is an ACTIVE Explorer (the most active one in our city actually). He belongs to four posts: Fire Fighting, Aviation, Woodworking and Engineering. He volunteers at our local Aviation Museum every week. He is a High School Junior and looking forward to college...as well as fearing the changes it will bring.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Davids%20BD%2017/9fd9cf83.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/planes%20ballet%20dog%20show%20more/CIMG0050.jpg
Rachel is our 13 year old daughter. She is a gorgeous, happy and talented young lady with LOTS of interests. She takes theater classes (third year) and loves to perform, plays the guitar better than most adults (has a full ride scholarship to study this year and opened the show at the House of Blues in the Blues Kitchen with a thirty minute set the first Friday of our trip...video to be posted soon). She also enjoys 4H (she is taking a break this year from the tour choir she has been a member of the previous two years, we have far too much going on). In addition she trained our dog, Bandit, to be a certified/registered Therapy Dog. They visit nursing homes and schools to help people feel better in stressful situations. We received a call yesterday from a researcher who is doing a trial on how therapy dogs assist those who have COPD and heart failure and how it changes the outcome having a dog they can love, pet and visit with and Rachel has agreed to assist. She and Bandit are a rare combination. Rachel is one of the youngest TDI handlers and Bandit is one of the few registered Chihuahuas. Rachel has some pretty serious health issues that she prefers to keep quiet about and I respect her wishes. She IS doing better, Praise the Lord.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/DSC07670.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Random%20photos/5652e68f.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Random%20photos/e95841f2.jpg
Lisa is our BEAUTIFUL, 8 year old Wish Princess! She is all about things frilly, frou-frou and girly! She never meet a stranger and is truly the strongest, most courageous person I know. When you meet her, you KNOW there is something special and sweet about her...it is the fact that God lives in her heart and shines through in all that she does. Lisa takes Ballet twice a week, as well as voice lessons. She has a gorgeous, natural voice and is learning to control her breathing, in spite of some lung problems. She LOVES to perform...hence her desire to be famous at Disney. She loves ALL things Disney, so that had to be part of her wish. We helped her think of things she might want to do and it always came back to Disney. From the time she can remember, she knew she would get a wish when she was old enough. Rachel sure told her enough over the years. :rotfl2::rotfl2: As soon as she turned 7 she came to me and told me she was ready to make her wish. It was a long journey from March 2010 and October 2011. Lisa's wish was granted within a month of us applying...and that was with them losing the first request! Lisa IS still medically fragile, many wish children have moved on to more stable phases by the time they take their wishes...we were told from the very first contact that if circumstances dictated they could have us in Florida in less than a week...that was both a comfort and a heartache, to know your child is so sick that they have her on standby at any moment to go on her Wish Trip.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/IMG_2461.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Children%20at%20Pumpaws%20Memorial/4176e80b.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/planes%20ballet%20dog%20show%20more/CIMG0041.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Random%20photos/7929e9ab.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Random%20photos/780174c1.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Random%20photos/c8b401f7.jpg
WARNING: For those who don't want to know the particulars of the medical aspect of our lives, skip post 7.
blessedmom4
10-25-2011, 05:27 AM
Link to out PTR (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2572447) and Links to some of the highlights in that report.
More About Us! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=38522863&postcount=3)
September Stuff. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=38532335&postcount=15)
We Need Prayers Please. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=38595517&postcount=21)
A Health Update~ The Good, The Bad and The Unknown. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=38640287&postcount=28)
Emotionally Charged Week Just Passed. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=38701315&postcount=33)
Not My Usual Bubbly Self, BUT I STILL BELIEVE! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=38756831&postcount=36)
MAW Update, Pre-Thanksgiving. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39046853&postcount=52)
The Week In Review~ Thanksgiving. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39106512&postcount=57)
Reading, PA! Pete's New Doc. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39117586&postcount=60)
CHOP~Now We Wait (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39136105&postcount=61)
Jesus' Birthday Cake~And ANOTHER Health Issue and Delay. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39410956&postcount=69)
Sometimes It Gets To You. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39438277&postcount=72)
One Hundred In Ten. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39457564&postcount=73)
Questions!!!! Thoughts Please... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39486990&postcount=84)
This and That. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39555580&postcount=105)
Phone Tag. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39570348&postcount=113)
MAW Trip Update (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39665782&postcount=126)
Quick Health Update. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39697266&postcount=153)
Worry One Doctor, The Other One Makes Us Wait. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39725746&postcount=161)
Good Or Bad...We Always Wait. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39736464&postcount=164)
Minnie Magic (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39764445&postcount=181)
Random Lisa as Minnie Photos (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39764634&postcount=182)
How Is Her Heart? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39793966&postcount=204)
Why Can't We Find His Medicine? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39822982&postcount=217)
Same Stuff, Different Day. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39962131&postcount=332)
Thursday's Therapy Dog Visit~ Picture Heavy. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40056822&postcount=434)
Happy Birthday Princess Lisa! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40165246&postcount=541)
Tuesday Musings. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40246520&postcount=619)
So, What Happened? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40276303&postcount=661)
Monday Madness! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40324220&postcount=734)
Terrific Tuesday. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40337814&postcount=754)
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY LISA. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40367366&postcount=788)
A little MAW NEWS. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40416044&postcount=854)
I am home and it isn't even 2 PM. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40421895&postcount=864)
A Roller Coaster Life. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40459680&postcount=922)
More of the Same. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40524106&postcount=985)
Not an April Fool's Day Prank. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40565248&postcount=1028)
Our WISH Granters come this SATURDAY, April 30!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40880939&postcount=1277)
Princess Lisa makes her WISH!!! READ THIS TO FIND OUT HER SPECIFIC WISH! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40939648&postcount=1363)
Long Awaited News~ CONFIRMED!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41235854&postcount=1613)
Health, Life and MAW Plans (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41262099&postcount=1632)
The Big Reveal Plans (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41282312&postcount=1654)
Faith That Will Move a Mountain! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41292346&postcount=1667)
SURPRISE DAY! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41364217&postcount=1706)
Lisa, Belle and Beast...OH MY!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41431970&postcount=1727)
Only FOUR MORE MONTHS To Go! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41468839&postcount=1745)
How about a HAPPY POST! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41488491&postcount=1769)
Amazing Autograph Books! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41554492&postcount=1798)
Get Your Tissues! Make a Wish Reveal VIDEO! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41568190&postcount=1819)
Decisions, Decisions... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41692404&postcount=1927)
Souvenir Thoughts (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41700375&postcount=1939)
Rachel's Rockin' the House of Blues! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41710513&postcount=1970)
What are we doing Wednesday and Thursday? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41747202&postcount=2060)
Teeth and Plans...What a Combo! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41761228&postcount=2069)
Attitude of Gratitude (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41797146&postcount=2093)
MONDAY MATTERS...WHERE to Go? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41864738&postcount=2107)
OVERWHELMED...and AIRPLANE QUESTIONS! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41962048&postcount=2145)
Fly High Pumpaw!!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42039538&postcount=2213)
SOAP OPERA LIFE! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42231847&postcount=2282)
Itinerary~ PLEASE make suggestions! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42254360&postcount=2308)
Costume Help Please~MNSSHP (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42281626&postcount=2327)
COSTUME DECISIONS! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42320372&postcount=2377)
Favorite Rides~ MAGIC KINGDOM (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42368991&postcount=2448)
Bad News at the Cardiologist (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42491292&postcount=2540)
What's for dinner Kris and Lisa??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42500789&postcount=2567)
Mickey Pancakes and a THANK YOU! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42516080&postcount=2578)
Overdue Thanks!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42526945&postcount=2585)
Continued Prayers (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42553376&postcount=2605)
Heart Happenings (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42565484&postcount=2616)
PICTURES
Beauty and Baloo (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39824863&postcount=218)
I Couldn't Decide... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39840780&postcount=234)
WHERE are They??? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39848839&postcount=235)
You are all so GOOD!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39864933&postcount=260)
Daddy and Princess Lisa (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39873759&postcount=266)
Celebrity Lisa (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39887454&postcount=281)
Yes, I made them wear them! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39908625&postcount=299)
The Vip Treatment (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39912527&postcount=300)
A Little Consideration... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39928275&postcount=322)
Tigger Meets Princess Lisa. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39968524&postcount=343)
Since we are Talking about Germs... (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=39981483&postcount=358)
Pooh Passion. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40000600&postcount=386)
Pooh Wisdom (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40015352&postcount=401)
Let's Lighten Things Up. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40115004&postcount=507)
A Few Photos of Lisa's Birthday Night. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40232343&postcount=602)
Birthday Surprise! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40288400&postcount=694)
Girls with Guitars and a Fire Fighter Parade (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40401278&postcount=835)
Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40582084&postcount=1059)
Wish Granting Day. Part 1. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40953216&postcount=1423)
Wish Granting Day. Part 2. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40953292&postcount=1424)
Wish Granting Day. Part 3. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40953404&postcount=1425)
Wish Granting Day. Part 4. (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=40953579&postcount=1426)
PRIMA BALLERINA! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41007496&postcount=1478)
Pictures from the reveal day!!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41616171&postcount=1866)
Finally...The Gifts! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41616184&postcount=1867)
Our FIRST DIS Meet! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=41626494&postcount=1884)
Calendar Countdown (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42479451&postcount=2513)
Random Photos (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42480229&postcount=2522)
VIDEOS
Lisa's Ballet Rehearsal (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lRTBzdjHnGk)
Rachel playing Guitar at the McGlohon Theater (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TO7BVuVkNDY)
Lisa's Make A Wish Reveal with Beauty and the Beast! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=crikBl5BtpI)
Blast from the Past/ Superstar Lisa Tisa! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhlOdq9PL7c)
Rachel playing Don't cry Sister and an AMAZING ANNOUNCEMENT! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rxhA9HsU4Y)
Rachel playing MOONDANCE at Piedmont Natural Gas (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBlY6dym0Kc)
Christian's Public Service Announcement Scholarship Entry (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sSmlnHvhaY&feature=related)
Latest Video of Rachel Playing Guitar (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42500900&postcount=2569)
THE BIG GIVE!!!!
From a Child's Heart! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42580649&postcount=2636)
WOW doesn't even BEGIN to describe it! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42599707&postcount=2657)
Where should we pack our toiletries? (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42638437&postcount=2713)
Sleeping Beauty Awakened (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42676664&postcount=2748)
Mystery of the UNKNOWN DISer! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42680540&postcount=2757)
Postcards from Disney World (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42708870&postcount=2782)
Dopey Love (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42708883&postcount=2783)
Lisa and Molly~Best dressed "Belle's" at the ball (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42711453&postcount=2794)
Ready for Bling! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42714338&postcount=2811)
Halloween Twirls (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42714405&postcount=2812)
Grim Grinning Ghosts come out to Socialize (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42714534&postcount=2813)
Beautiful Bows (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42724263&postcount=2828)
Jibbitz Joy (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42735177&postcount=2846)
MAMA, I feel like a PRINCESS!! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42744994&postcount=2867)
Mickey Salutes the Marines! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42748207&postcount=2880)
Pluto "PFUN" (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42771866&postcount=2923)
Crocs, Bags and Bands...So Fun! (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=42814805&postcount=2951)
blessedmom4
10-25-2011, 05:35 AM
I am going to share some of the medical info with those who want to know WHY Lisa was eligible for a wish. I also do it to call attention to Congenital Heart Defects (CHD's).
CONGENITAL HEART DEFECT FACTS
Congenital heart defects (CHD's) are the MOST COMMON BIRTH DEFECT and are the number one cause of death from birth defects during the first year of life. MORE children are born with CHD's than cerebral palsy, sickle cell disease, down's syndrome and oral/facial clefts COMBINED!
Nearly TWICE as many children DIE from congenital heart disease in the United States each year as die from ALL FORMS of childhood cancers combined! YES, COMBINED! Over 91,000 lives are lost each year in the US due to congenital heart disease.
Out of 100 births, 1 baby will have some form of congenital heart disorder, ranging from mild to severe. The presence of a serious congenital heart defect often results in an enormous emotional and financial strain on families at a very vulnerable time. Some of us never recover.
Lisa is our fourth child and her story is truly a testament to the power of God and the miracles He has given to our family. If it were not for His mercies our precious daughter would be living in heaven with God instead of blessing our lives daily with her sweet, tender heart.
Lisa was born March 3, 2003 and it was not until she was 14 days old that she was diagnosed with a rare congenital heart defect known as ALCAPA. The coronary artery grew from her pulmonary artery, instead of her aorta. I had postpartum complications and had been discharged from the hospital just the day before, so when I thought something didn't seem "quite right" with Lisa both my husband and my Mom-in-law thought I was just exhausted.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/ScannedImage113030007.jpg
This photo was taken the Sunday I was discharged from the hospital. The next day Lisa would be readmitted to the hospital in heart failure.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/scan0001-7.jpg
This is a picture of Rachel and Lisa from that morning.
I insisted on taking her to the emergency room where they finally examined her and discovered she was in heart failure and that had we waited until the morning to have her examined as her pediatrician suggested, she would have died. Emergency surgery was required and the local pediatric cardiothoracic surgeon was out of town so we were rushed to UNC-CH for immediate repair on March 18, 2003.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/scan0002-1.jpg
This is that morning before her surgery. The "bow" on her head is actually 2 IV's in her scalp.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/scan0003-1.jpg
After her first surgery.
Lisa's chest was kept open for FIVE LONG DAYS following her first open heart surgery. Her blood pressure shot up (they think this may be when she suffered one or both of her strokes) and they were forced to open her chest up a second time to relieve the pressure. You could actually see her heart beating through the transparent dressing!
Although they assured us she was improving, her Dad and I were not convinced and after we had transferred back to our local hospital it became evident she was dying. It was indeed a blessing that we had originally been sent to Chapel Hill, for while our local doctor would most likely have been able to repair the ALCAPA defect, mitral valve surgery in a newborn is extremely rare and complicated. If we had not traveled to Chapel Hill, it might never have occurred to us to take her elsewhere for additional surgery! The distinct feeling they were not qualified in Charlotte to perform this second surgery had me searching the internet for a facility anywhere that had more experience and success with mitral valve surgery in such a tiny infant.
Wanting the best care in the country for her we narrowed our search to Philadelphia (#1) and Boston (#2) the two top rated pediatric cardiac facilities in the United States. As God would have it, the physician that is now Lisa's local cardiologist has a wife who was born with CHD's and she had 2 heart-lung transplants at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP). Her first transplants were unsuccessful; however, the second time gave her back the life she had prayed for. It was not chance that, Craig Greene, the local cardiologist, became Lisa's primary doctor while she was hospitalized. Although he rarely made hospital visits, he was the doctor who visited her the most here in Charlotte. There were pediatric nurses on the floor who didn't even know who he was, he so rarely came to the hospital!
Lisa and I were sent by air ambulance in a LEAR jet to Philadelphia on April 12, 2003 where Pete was waiting for us already. We had to wait for Tom Spray (the best pediatric cardiothoracic surgeon in the USA!) to return from an out of the country trip. This gave Lisa time to gather strength after our long journey.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/scan0005.jpg
This is a photo the day before her surgery. I asked her for a kiss, she obliged.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/scan0003-2.jpg
This was my constant place for the prior 6 weeks (after open heart surgery 1 and 2) as I waited on her to improve.
He repaired her mitral valve (and her Atrial Septal Defect~ASD) on April 16, 2003 and within days of the surgery Lisa was sitting on our laps, smiling.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/ScannedImage113030006.jpg
This photo was taken 2 days after Lisa's second open heart surgery.
We returned home to Charlotte after being away from our other 3 children for 2 months. Our sons, Christian (now 21) and David (17) and our oldest daughter, Rachel (13), were overjoyed to have us back home with their precious baby sister. We, of course, were delighted to be here!
On June 2, 2003 a feeding tube was placed in her tummy due to poor weight gain and severe reflux. July 30, 2003 it was converted to a MIC-KEY and we praised God for the ability to know she was receiving the nutrients and medications she needed.
She required round the clock nursing care with medicines administered at least every 3 hours and tube feedings which ran from bedtime until 4 a.m. This was an exhausting schedule which lasted through October,2004; however, God provided the strength to endure. We considered it a labor of love.
Lisa continued to thrive and improve until the day in May 2004 when during a routine office visit, her cardiologist discovered the leak in her valve had increased dramatically and he felt she needed to be reevaluated in Philadelphia. We were told June 15, 2004 she needed surgery within 3 weeks.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/ScannedImage113030008.jpg
These photos were taken between the two visits to Philadelphia to confirm her need for surgery and taking her back to have that surgery. Lisa was 15 months old.
That was performed on July 9, 2004. They had hoped to repair the valve once again; however, she required a mitral valve implant to replace her damaged mitral valve and papillary muscles.
Due to the mitral valve implant Lisa will be on coumadin for the remainder of her life. She has pulmonary stenosis due to the original ALCAPA repair. She also suffered 2 strokes, one on the left side of her brain and one on the right side of her brain. These most likely occurred during the first surgery at UNC-CH when her blood pressure went sky high and they had to leave her chest open for 5 LONG days, due to the excessive swelling!
She continues to improve on her eating abilities and we have not fed her daily through her feeding tube since November 2004, PRAISE GOD! The tube has been used on multiple occasions to administer fluids to hydrate, preventing hospitalization. The best part is being able to administer all of her cardiac medications and knowing she received them! We also have been able to not administer medications in the middle of the night and that has been incredible! Looking at Lisa you would never know she had been sick a day in her life and she is incredibly intelligent, which is another miracle after having so many heart surgeries! She is bright, funny, strong minded and just a delight to know!
God keeps assuring me Lisa will be fine and I believe Him. I just take each day one moment at a time and wait to see what journey is in store for me that day. It is definitely a humbling and teaching lesson to have a medically fragile child and to watch her every need cared for by our Lord. Lisa has so much that she teaches others just by her everyday life of smiles, love she gives, her sunny disposition, and the comforting feeling she gives to EVERYONE she has met!!! It truly is awesome and I praise God and give Him the glory!
In August 2007, Lisa was diagnosed with Middle Aortic Syndrome and femoral artery occlusion on her right side. Her abdominal aorta is less than half the size it should be and her femoral artery supplies a "string size" flow of blood to her right leg. Both of these issues cause their own set of challenges. Please continue to pray for her myriad health challenges!
June 2008, Lisa began experiencing extreme fatigue, bradycardia/tachycardia and other symptoms.Lisa has autonomic issues (also known as dysautonomia), diagnosed in September 2008. We began an odyssey to discover how to best help her. November brought a nine day hospitalization at Duke Hospital for a cardiac catheterization.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/DSC03602-1.jpg
They told us she needed a fourth open heart surgery as soon as possible to repair her pulmonary stenosis (which was caused during her first surgery at Chapel Hill). We wanted her doctors in Philadelphia to examine the films. We finally traveled to Philly in February, 2009. They agreed Lisa needs to have the pulmonary stenosis repaired; however, we also know Lisa needs to have her mitral valve replaced in the not too distant future. The plan at this time is to try and combine surgery four and five into ONE operation, to open her only once. Each time we have to go through the same incision causes its own set of problems. Lisa’s medication have been adjusted and we are happy to see her continue to thrive, in spite of everything that is going on in her tiny body WE BELIEVE God is giving us another miracle! In May, 2009 to September, 2009 Lisa was diagnosed with hypoventilation, hypercapnia, vocal cord issues and started on a C-Pap machine at night. She also has multiple allergies.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/73785ec5.jpg
December 2010 brought another trip to Philly, where we were told clinically the surgery should have happened already..but she was doing well enough physically that we could wait awhile longer...how can you NOT believe in God when you see things like this? From January 2011 until the present we have had an odd mix of symptoms and a daughter who doesn't feel well;however, never complains. Her ECHO in September showed a drastic change in her values since May 26...so the decision to send us BACK to Philly was made and we leave for an extended hospital stay November 5, admission to the coronary care unit on the 7th and a cardiac cath scheduled for November 9. We NEED your prayers and covet them.
In spite of her health problems, Lisa looks amazing and most days you would not even know she had any health issues if I didn’t tell you. Lisa has to use her wheelchair at times; however, she is just like any other child her age and quite a little girly girl! THAT is the POWER of GOD!
p00h4me
10-25-2011, 05:48 AM
Hi Judy, I see you are getting ready for your TR! How exciting! :woohoo: :yay: You know I'll be here to read all about it!
jecskc
10-25-2011, 06:20 AM
Love the title !! So appropriate !! I'm in !!
karebear23
10-29-2011, 07:01 AM
Hello! I made it! Can't wait for your TR!
DMGeurts
10-29-2011, 07:18 AM
Yay - I found it! Just posting now, will go back to read. ;)
D~
blessedmom4
10-29-2011, 07:18 AM
Hi Judy, I see you are getting ready for your TR! How exciting! :woohoo: :yay: You know I'll be here to read all about it!
Gail, I was so excited the other day to see you had found us so quickly! Thanks for always being there!
Love the title !! So appropriate !! I'm in !!
I hope you will stay with us, I changed the title to something a little more poignant...but I promise my same wit will shine through...:lmao::lmao:
Hello! I made it! Can't wait for your TR!
Thanks Karen, I am eager to get it started and let you see your GORGEOUS dress you made in action!
blessedmom4
10-29-2011, 07:22 AM
Yay - I found it! Just posting now, will go back to read. ;)
D~
Glad you found us D~ still working on the opening and need to add some pics...need more hours in the day....I am off to get David to his Firefighting Explorers post now....Saw your latest Pooh creations and Christmas dresses...may I just say :worship::worship:
sheridee32
10-29-2011, 08:36 AM
I found the trip report waiting for more thinking about yall.
lovethattink
10-29-2011, 08:40 AM
I'm in!!! Looking forward to the TR!!
TLHB70
10-29-2011, 08:43 AM
I am following along and cannot wait to read about your magical trip.
cogero
10-29-2011, 08:49 AM
okay I found it and am along for the ride.
elizabethswan
10-29-2011, 09:38 AM
HI! looks like all of your old fans are finding your new trip report. can't wait to hear all of the fun details. loved the photo of princess lisa waiving to her subjects. she looks beautiful! will follow along on your trip report and will keep your family in our thoughts throughout the coming weeks:flower3:
mommy2mrb
10-29-2011, 10:36 AM
:yay: I'm here too! great start, you've been busy getting everything switched over!!!!
Wonders10
10-29-2011, 02:19 PM
I'm in! Going back to read now! :surfweb:
petals
10-29-2011, 07:34 PM
Of course I'm joining in here. and holey moley what a horrific start in life Princess Lisa had. But yay wish trip! Can't wait to read all about it
blessedmom4
10-29-2011, 09:38 PM
I found the trip report waiting for more thinking about yall.
Thank you Sheri and thanks for all you did to help us! :hug:
I'm in!!! Looking forward to the TR!!
Looking forward to sharing! :thumbsup2
I am following along and cannot wait to read about your magical trip.
Thank you ! And I can't wait to hopefully meet you! :goodvibes
okay I found it and am along for the ride.
Thanks Chiara, glad you are here! :flower3:
HI! looks like all of your old fans are finding your new trip report. can't wait to hear all of the fun details. loved the photo of princess lisa waiving to her subjects. she looks beautiful! will follow along on your trip report and will keep your family in our thoughts throughout the coming weeks:flower3:
Thank you so much we truly need the prayers! :grouphug:
:yay: I'm here too! great start, you've been busy getting everything switched over!!!!
Thanks sweet friend, hope you feel MUCH BETTER! :grouphug:
I'm in! Going back to read now! :surfweb:
Glad to see you Shannon, Hope all is well! :flower3:
Of course I'm joining in here. and holey moley what a horrific start in life Princess Lisa had. But yay wish trip! Can't wait to read all about it
Lisa is one tough Princess, that is certain. Glad you are here Emma, your trip is so close! :yay:
WDWJonasGirl
10-29-2011, 10:35 PM
Subscribing!!
Mom2mitokids
10-30-2011, 12:48 AM
I'm here.....
heaven2dc
10-30-2011, 01:08 AM
I'm am also in on this TR! Princess Lisa is an absolutely adorable little girl and you are truly an amazing family! Lisa and your family are in my prayers for the upcoming surgery:hug:
p00h4me
10-30-2011, 06:46 AM
Love seeing all the pictures you posted especially the one of Rachel with baby Lisa :love:! God has truly blessed your family with Lisa! She has the joy of the Lord in her and it sure shines through! He has been there for her during her previous surgeries and He will be there with her when she goes to CHOP next week! We continue to pray for Lisa and the family!
You can tell Rachel that we've started training Tiffy and she's pretty smart and learns quickly. It just will take some patience and work on our part. I bought a couple of dog training books since there's no really good obedience school in our area. We bought dog bells yesterday to hang on the two doors to the outside so she can tell us when she needs to go potty. She finally hit it once herself. Not sure if she just wanted to go outside or she had to go potty...:rotfl: We found out she likes to go outside and just lay out in the sunshine.
that's nice
10-30-2011, 06:50 AM
Great intro!!!:thumbsup2
Your TR is so organized!!!! I'm liking it!!!!! :rotfl2::rotfl2:
DMGeurts
10-30-2011, 06:52 AM
Love all the new pictures!!!
D~
marvali
10-30-2011, 06:58 AM
Okay, glad I stopped by the DIS for a minute and saw this! I'm here and can't wait to read all about your trip!
wishin' on a star
10-30-2011, 07:00 AM
Judy, I'm here! I can't wait to hear it all!:goodvibes
VBAndrea
10-30-2011, 07:09 AM
:wave: I'm here! I love some of the pics you posted that I haven't seen before. I'm so excited to see some of your trip photos and hear all about everything.
Colleen27
10-30-2011, 07:48 AM
I'm here! Can't wait to see all the pics and Rachel's HoB video!
jessica52877
10-30-2011, 08:13 AM
Coming along on the journey! I can't wait to hear all about it!
WDWRids
10-30-2011, 08:35 AM
Loving the start of the TR! Can't wait to hear all the wonderful details of Lisa's wish. :flower3:
juttawdw
10-30-2011, 09:11 AM
I'm in love to read along.
mommy2mrb
10-30-2011, 09:13 AM
oh my, the photos of you looking at your sweet baby Lisa is so BEAUTIFUL, your love for her is just pouring out of your eyes :love:
and what a sweet photo of Rachel and Lisa together :love:
mphalens
10-30-2011, 10:17 AM
I'm here!!! Finn & I just sat and read all of your entries so far (well, I read and he looked at all the pictures, asking every five seconds who everyone was and what they were doing) and he saw Lisa's picture and said, "Hey! She played Toy Story with us!" :D
Can't wait to read all about your trip!!!:cool1:
miprender
10-30-2011, 06:33 PM
:wave2: Found you trip report.
Loved seeing all the baby pictures.:goodvibes
blessedmom4
10-30-2011, 10:58 PM
I posted a few more photos in the history section if you want to see them...I know some of you might not like to see the medical ones. I understand; however, it is a part of what made us who we are today and we embrace the miracle that is Lisa.
Subscribing!!
Thank you for letting me know you are here! :goodvibes
I'm here.....
Hi Kris, I hope all is quiet your way. You mentioned in our PTR about Kylee's port and what a blessing it has been. I haven't answered there, so I thought i would here. I am so happy Kylee is able to have one. Because of Lisa's heart, she isn't a candidate for a port or that type of access. Once again, heart problems make everything more challenging. You feel free to call anytime, if i am home I will answer. Unfortunately, I am often not home. ALWAYS say something, I let my machine screen the calls.
I'm am also in on this TR! Princess Lisa is an absolutely adorable little girl and you are truly an amazing family! Lisa and your family are in my prayers for the upcoming surgery:hug:
Welcome, so glad you are here and let me know! There are some things I am planning to share by PM only with those who actually log in here. Over 1000 people have viewed our thread and there aren't nearly that many people who logged on...
THANK YOU for the prayers AND your kind words!
Love seeing all the pictures you posted especially the one of Rachel with baby Lisa :love:! God has truly blessed your family with Lisa! She has the joy of the Lord in her and it sure shines through! He has been there for her during her previous surgeries and He will be there with her when she goes to CHOP next week! We continue to pray for Lisa and the family!
You can tell Rachel that we've started training Tiffy and she's pretty smart and learns quickly. It just will take some patience and work on our part. I bought a couple of dog training books since there's no really good obedience school in our area. We bought dog bells yesterday to hang on the two doors to the outside so she can tell us when she needs to go potty. She finally hit it once herself. Not sure if she just wanted to go outside or she had to go potty...:rotfl: We found out she likes to go outside and just lay out in the sunshine.
Bandit loves the sun as well. Tiffy is ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS! Rachel said to tell you to call if you have any questions, she would love to help. I posted a few more pics in the history...I might post even more! We feel God surrounding us and I am very colm...even in the face of so much to do and not knowing where David and Rachel will be.... I told Lisa today about going back to the hospital for the cardiac cath. and she was very matter of fact...and told me she hoped I had the Ouch presents packed...:lmao::rotfl2: That reminds me I need to go to the store....I did get her some bedroom shoes and a new gown. When I learn to sew I am going to make Disney hospital gowns, won't that be cute?!?:rolleyes1
Great intro!!!:thumbsup2
Your TR is so organized!!!! I'm liking it!!!!! :rotfl2::rotfl2:
Okay Tim...you laughed after you said it, did you mean it?!?...I like organization, I would be :eek::eek::eek: without staying that way! Taking our Mickey cooler to Philly, so you and the family will be with us in spirit!
Love all the new pictures!!!
D~
Thanks D~ :flower3:
blessedmom4
10-30-2011, 11:07 PM
Okay, glad I stopped by the DIS for a minute and saw this! I'm here and can't wait to read all about your trip!
MARV!!! Glad you found us. I am SOOOOOO far behind on everything, I hope to get caught up while in Philly. You mentioned on the PTR about coming to Charlotte in late November...maybe ya'll could come by and visit us if you have time...I can't say what dinner would be, but you saw me...I can cook...:rotfl2:
Judy, I'm here! I can't wait to hear it all!:goodvibes
Hi Laura, Sio glad to see you. Ya'll wont be up near CHOP in the next two weeks will you? I would LOVE to finally meet you! I had thought about taking Lisa to the AG store in D.C.; however, that is definitely not happening on the trip up. I am still hoping my MIL is able to help us out.
:wave: I'm here! I love some of the pics you posted that I haven't seen before. I'm so excited to see some of your trip photos and hear all about everything.
Thanks Andrea, I do love old photos, they tell so much history!
I'm here! Can't wait to see all the pics and Rachel's HoB video!
You will definitely get the link for the HOB video when I post it! And I have LOTS of pics to share...soon I hope! Thank you for letting me know you are here! :goodvibes
Coming along on the journey! I can't wait to hear all about it!
So glad to see you here Jessica! Wait until you see what Pete wears...TWICE! It is my new favorite USMC shirt that he owns, THANK YOU AGAIN!!! :woohoo::goodvibes:woohoo:
blessedmom4
10-30-2011, 11:15 PM
Loving the start of the TR! Can't wait to hear all the wonderful details of Lisa's wish. :flower3:
So glad to see you here, THANK YOU for joining in! :flower3:
I'm in love to read along.
I am so happy you are here! We still have the beautiful Postcard you sent us from Paris on our card line...I think of you everyday!
oh my, the photos of you looking at your sweet baby Lisa is so BEAUTIFUL, your love for her is just pouring out of your eyes :love:
and what a sweet photo of Rachel and Lisa together :love:
I love that photo of the girls, Rachel adored Lisa and went through a very rough time while we were saving her life. I sat by LIsa's bed for months and willed her to live...Thankfully I felt God's grace through it all and had intense peace.
I'm here!!! Finn & I just sat and read all of your entries so far (well, I read and he looked at all the pictures, asking every five seconds who everyone was and what they were doing) and he saw Lisa's picture and said, "Hey! She played Toy Story with us!" :D
Hi Marianne, I can't believe how close your trip is!!! How is the blue hair, that was a GREAT picture on our PTR THANK YOU for sharing it! What a cutie pie! Tell Finn Lisa cant WAIT to play with them again!
Can't wait to read all about your trip!!!:cool1:
Thank you!
:wave2: Found you trip report.
Loved seeing all the baby pictures.:goodvibes
Hi sweet friend, Thank you for taking the time to let me know you are here!
petals
10-30-2011, 11:24 PM
Lisa is one tough Princess, that is certain. Glad you are here Emma, your trip is so close! :yay:
Poor kiddio having to be that tough though. Praying everything goes well in Philly. :grouphug::flower3:
Also :banana: I know 25 days left til Mickey's house! :yay:
blessedmom4
10-30-2011, 11:28 PM
Yes, I do plan to put some pictures of the trip up...Just need time to organize a few things. In the meantime, a much bigger trip looms, full of stress and the unknown. Those who have followed along for awhile know I cant stand last minute stuff and not knowing what is going on. Yes, I am disgustingly organized and it makes me :scared1::eek::scared1::eek::scared1: to not be able to plan and have things worked out, with contingencies in place. That being said, I have as much organized as I can...which means there will be a last minute scramble just before we leave to get things settled...which makes me nuts...TRYING to just let go and let God....and it DOES seem to be working.
Several have asked me for Lisa's address while she is in the hospital. I am not going to post it here; however, if you would like the info, please let me know and I will send you a PM. I am NOT good at answering PM's; however, I will do my best! Now I am off to bed, it is late and the mornings start early around here for me...
One more question...is there anyone who reads here near Philly?
blessedmom4
10-30-2011, 11:31 PM
Poor kiddio having to be that tough though. Praying everything goes well in Philly. :grouphug::flower3:
Also :banana: I know 25 days left til Mickey's house! :yay:
I wish she didn't have to be so tough too Emma! It hurts a Mom's heart to see their little one (or big one for that matter!) hurting.
:yay::dance3::yay: for Twenty Five more days!!! :cheer2:
teresajoy
10-31-2011, 12:20 AM
Judy, I love the old pictures you posted. :lovestruc
Owensheart
10-31-2011, 12:26 AM
I just found your trip report... you are SO organized!! Just wanted to let you know that Lisa is in our prayers. Planning to travel, getting everything in order, and then worrying about what they might find in the cath lab.. de ja vu. Can't wait to read about your magical trip!! :)
blessedmom4
10-31-2011, 04:59 AM
Judy, I love the old pictures you posted. :lovestruc
Thanks Teresa, glad you are here! I don't want you to forget me! :flower3:
I just found your trip report... you are SO organized!! Just wanted to let you know that Lisa is in our prayers. Planning to travel, getting everything in order, and then worrying about what they might find in the cath lab.. de ja vu. Can't wait to read about your magical trip!! :)
Your trip is SO CLOSE! You are going to have an amazing time! Praying Owen is much better, I don't know if the docs ever figured out what was going on; however, it sounded like an ABX reaction a friend of ours had post-transplant. Lack of organization makes me crazy...sometimes I think it is God's way of testing my patience...or the devil's way of getting under my skin. So far I am calm. It is hard to believe we are home from our magical trip and it is all over...and in one short week, Lisa will be admitted to the hospital yet again...we are incredibly blessed to have the cardiac team on board that we do have and that they are all Believers.
blessedmom4
10-31-2011, 05:06 AM
http://dl.glitter-graphics.net/pub/1570/1570171fn72iey3a3.gif (http://www.glitter-graphics.com)
blessedmom4
10-31-2011, 07:25 AM
SOOOOOOOO, I was able to catch up on a few PTR's and TR's and spread some Halloween Greetings...but now it is time to get back to reality....but before I go... one more time....
http://dl10.glitter-graphics.net/pub/1237/1237570ewawx6spd4.gif (http://www.glitter-graphics.com)
lovethattink
10-31-2011, 07:50 AM
Happy Halloween!!
Love the pictures you have added to the first posts!
mommy2mrb
10-31-2011, 08:22 AM
More sweet photos!!!!
http://dl3.glitter-graphics.net/pub/1648/1648223im8d23mu89.gif (http://www.glitter-graphics.com)
Hope you have a fun Halloween!!!
lovethattink
10-31-2011, 08:24 AM
http://dl.glitter-graphics.net/pub/802/802811noy844229t.jpg (http://www.glitter-graphics.com)
KatMark
10-31-2011, 08:43 AM
Judy, I'm so sorry I'm late to the TR. I was sick all week and just now back to feeling almost 100%. But I'm here now and all caught up. Great introductions and what wonderful family photos. :goodvibes
Thanks for the comments on my TR; actually, that was the evening of EMH's and not the Halloween Party. Trust me, my review of the MNSSHP will not be glowing this year. :headache:
Happy Halloween to all of your family.
http://i209.photobucket.com/albums/bb136/Luvwrestling/mickeyhalloween.gif
petals
10-31-2011, 09:32 AM
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc125/petalsdance/Disney-Happy-Halloween-disney-8680852-547-388.gif
merbobear
10-31-2011, 09:34 AM
I just found your TR, so I am following along from the PTR. It sounds like you had a truly amazing time and that princess: Lisa princess: was made to feel like a real princess. I can't wait to read all of the details!
I am keeping your family in my prayers as you embark on the next leg of Lisa's medical journey. :goodvibes
ellenbenny
10-31-2011, 10:00 AM
Just letting you know I am here. Love all the pictures posted so far, and looking foward to reading/seeing your trip report. Praying for all to go well for your upcoming trip, and peace for you all as well.
Moira222
10-31-2011, 10:19 AM
Happy Halloween Judy & Family!!!
So glad I popped into DIS for a minute and saw your TR.:surfweb: Love all your titles especially the one you used. they say a lot about your trip and your family.
Your intro is great, and left me sniffly and teary eyed. Did I mention I am sneaking in at work? had to compose myself before answering the phone:lmao:
BTW I mentioned this elsewhere, I am about 85 miles NE of Philly. There may be DIS'ers closer, but if I can do anything, PM or better email me -- my username at hotmail is my email address.
Piper
10-31-2011, 11:18 AM
I am here, too. I don't read everyday, but I do whenever I can. It is tough and time consuming getting to multiple doctors for just one person. I know it must take so much of your time and emotions to do this for so many!
kaileighbug
10-31-2011, 12:01 PM
I'm here. Can't wait to read more. I can't wait to see the joy on Lisa's face.
blessedmom4
10-31-2011, 01:10 PM
Patience is a virtue I am told...so THANK YOU for sticking with us...I mean I have been home for an entire week and not one entire post about the actual trip...although in my defense I DID give you a few updates “from the road”...and I hadn’t planned on that!
If you followed the PTR you know I slept about an hour the night before our trip. There was so much excitement and add to that the fact RACHEL had an exciting article in the newspaper the day we left town...lets just say, there was NO WAY to sleep! My brother and Dad brought Christian home from college around 11:15 that night, October 12. Everybody else was in bed and Pete and Christian followed soon after he arrived home. I was still working. I finished up and slept for about an hour, them made the mistake of looking to see if Rachel’s article had posted yet...it had, so I spent time sending out emails and posting to the PTR and Lisa’s website.
I had spent time getting my hair “just so”...big mistake, as you will see from the photos, I would have been better off leaving it au natural (my hair frizzed up as soon as we went outside, lol), due to the rain...in the photos the white flecks that look like snow are actually rain drops (and in the limo the white specks on Lisa’s pants are glitter. Marianne, notice Lisa’s cape...it came in handy a LOT during our trip! I LOVE it!!! So does she)!
Around 3:50 AM a tiny knock came at my bedroom door...it was Princess Lisa, too excited to sleep and wanting to get ready for her day! She was so excited she was actually quivering! I had made sure everyone’s clothes were lying out for this momentous day, so all she had to do was brush her teeth and hair, dress (she had a bath the night before) and she was ready...to wake up her siblings, which she did with glee!
All three of the guys had breakfast and I went around ensuring everything was ready. I looked outside about 5:10 and saw...the Limo! Now the boys both knew we would ride in a Limo, the girls had NO CLUE! I told them MAW couldn’t afford to send us in a Limo; which WAS true, except it was for the ride home, not for the ride TO the airport. If you missed the PTR, there was some saga the day before where they weren’t going to even send that Limo; however, that was thankfully worked out while we were at the hematologist getting David’s IV iron.
I had Rachel and Lisa sit on the couch in the family room, while Pete, Christian and David took the luggage and wheelchair out to the waiting vehicles (they sent a Suburban for our luggage...which we really didn’t need, there WOULD have been room.
We then told the girls it was time to go and I went out first to try and capture their expressions. It was SO DARK and SO early...but that didn’t dampen their enthusiasm! We took a few photos, then loaded up into a VERY cool Limo, complete with soft drinks, water and flashing, funky lights on the interior roof..there was even a moonroof!! As you see from the pictures, the children had a BLAST and we were so excited to be in the Limo. They were goofing off, sticking their pinkies to to drink their drinks (Just like on Spongebob), and one you can see Lisa singing out her Praise of Thank You to God. It was SO MUCH FUN!!!!! We waved at our neighbors house; however, didn’t see a single soul, since the Limo came early. As we were driving down the ramp onto the Interstate we heard lots of honking and flashing lights...our neighbor had caught up to us and wanted us to know he had seen us...SO COOL! We felt like Rock Stars and joked about how once Rachel became famous we would travel like that all of the time. Our dirvers were SUPER NICE and dropped us off in front of the extremely BUSY airport...but first they took two more pictures for us under the light from the terminal. EVERYBODY was stopping to stare at us, I am sure we were quite the sight. Then the fun (NOT) really began...
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/7e9afd98.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/10778e2b.jpghttp://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/ca27f232.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/34aea5bd.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/54ae6a0c.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/34d77265.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/a2b75099.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/d74b6dec.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/b4e1a72c.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/f1c529c1.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/ca874a12.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/1f81e5a0.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/dce09b2f.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/12cfdb4f.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/0e3c9aee.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/1e4b8a56.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/fd587379.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/62095d2c.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/43142020.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/0b2f37ba.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/eb7f79ad.jpg
LUSCIOUS LIMO...DAY 1...PART 2 (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43111616&postcount=61)
blessedmom4
10-31-2011, 01:11 PM
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/f5626183.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/9e7758c9.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/4c0b5843.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/0fb1c6f8.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/2e2e8fa8.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/bdc0b159.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/af6c5ecb.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/7cb632ee.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/ed60724e.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/717788c2.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/dbad4206.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/1d63afaf.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/0aa49654.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/34c3f7ae.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/1abb9e7d.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/9e083d7e.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/006b2bd0.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/7fcd27c5.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/367d2912.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/02266c0d.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/c6da0c19.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/b99d829d.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/ad1e722f.jpg
kimmg
10-31-2011, 02:27 PM
I'm here and excited to read along. Gosh, looking at those pictures of sweet Lisa had me in tears. What a beautiful blessing Lisa is. I can't wait to read more about your much deserved trip.
lovethattink
10-31-2011, 02:59 PM
Wow!! Great pictures!! You all look so awake for so early in the morning!! You're hair looks fine! Everyone looks great!! I really love the terminal picture!
WDWRids
10-31-2011, 03:09 PM
OH WOW!!! The pics are great! Lisa looked SO happy and really enjoying herself. The pics really capture the family interactions of the joyous occasion! Very, very cool!!!
DMGeurts
10-31-2011, 03:26 PM
FIrst of all... I must have been reading and posting about the new pictures you posted, while you were posting all the baby pictures of Lisa, because I truly missed those. Let me just say that I have tears in my eyes, sitting here reading about everything your family has been through... I just can't even speak. And PRECIOUS little Lisa and ADORABLE little Rachel... such sweet pictures of them together.
And then I fast forward to all the limo pictures... and I see what a miracle ALL OF YOU are to eachother, and what a great family you are. We are all so blessed that you have allowed us to be a part of this time in your lives... I look forward to each memory you are willing to share with us. I am so excited to hear about the rest of your trip...
Many, many hugs and prayers as always.
D~
kayrosek
10-31-2011, 03:52 PM
I'm here. I just found this and your at page five already, can't say I'm surprised! Love the title, love the intro! I can't wait to read more about your trip. As always we are praying for you and your sweet family. Now I have to go back and catch up I've only read the first few posts so far.
petals
10-31-2011, 06:27 PM
Aw I love the limo pics. Lisa really does look like the princess at the head of it all in that Limo! Luv it! :thumbsup2
mommy2mrb
10-31-2011, 07:21 PM
love all the fun limo photos!!! a great start the trip!!
karebear23
10-31-2011, 07:44 PM
What great pictures in the limo!
Looks like lots of fun! :goodvibes
Can't wait to see whats next!
teresajoy
10-31-2011, 08:34 PM
I love how much fun you guys were having in the limo!!!! And, Lisa looks just like a princess with her beautiful cape! I love seeing your smiling face too Judy!
I can't wait to read more!
p00h4me
10-31-2011, 08:59 PM
Love all the limo pictures! How long was the ride to the airport? Your matching Make-A-Wish shirts look fantastic too! The limo ride is a wonderful start of your trip report. Hope things went well inside the airport!
elizabethswan
10-31-2011, 09:49 PM
WOW! the limo! you are right, you all totally look like rock stars in that limo. love the blue , red and purple ceiling lights. now that's the way to start a wish trip! you all look so great. know you were tired, but apparently the adreniline was pumping ! looks like a fun way to ride:cool1:
mphalens
10-31-2011, 10:41 PM
:cool1::cool1::cool1:
LOVE IT! Those pictures just put a lovely cap on a very nice night :) I can't wait to see more!
Lisa looks so regal in her cape! And the shirts look great! I'm so glad we were able to work all that out!
Mom2mitokids
11-01-2011, 01:04 AM
Loving the start of your TR. You all look so happy in the limo. Loving Princess Lisa cape and crown. BTW.. Kylee was Belle for Halloween and I thought of Lisa.
VBAndrea
11-01-2011, 05:56 AM
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Limo%20to%20Airport/dce09b2f.jpg
This is my favorite photo of Lisa! She just looks so happy and relaxed like a true Princess princess: Can't wait to read more!
miprender
11-01-2011, 09:44 AM
What a great start to your trip:goodvibes
Love :love:all the pictures in the Limo and how neat that your neighbor was honking on the highway:)
cogero
11-01-2011, 12:09 PM
love all the pictures of your limo ride.
I have to say going thru security in Charlotte is hit or miss the 3 times I have been there. though the last time I went with J it was a breeze. I had the best TSA agent.
xanphylus
11-01-2011, 11:49 PM
I finally made it here lol. Great start to the tr!!!!! Can't wait to read more. Well keep you guess in our prayers. Sorry it took me so long. Been really busy lately, almost crazy. Lol. Working is a great blessing, but makes like just a bit harder. Gotta find my balance again. :goodvibes
VBAndrea
11-02-2011, 05:12 AM
Goodmorning Judy, I just wanted to let you know that last night Alexa asked to write her pen pal a letter. I told her we had her address at the hospital and explained that she was going up to Philly to see her doctors. Alexa just couldn't understand why you lived below us but were traveling to PA for Lisa's appt. I am going to try to show her some of the pics you posted today. She didn't start a letter yet, but was working on a nice picture last night!
tankgirl427
11-02-2011, 07:22 AM
Hi I hope you don't mind me tagging along! What a great way to start off the trip with a surprise ride to the airport in a limo! Its so cute how excited they were about it. And I love Lisa's crown!
aksunshine
11-02-2011, 11:21 AM
I made it over!! What a COOL lime ride!! To be honest, I have only been in one (Levi's funeral) and I don't remember it!! That one looks SO cool!!
babynala
11-02-2011, 11:27 AM
I'm so excited to find your Trip Report. I just finished reading the articles about Lisa and Rachel and they were so sweet! Love all the pictures of the family, when everyone was younger - so cute. Can't wait to hear all about your trip. Looks like everyone enjoyed the limo ride, how cool!
mommy2mrb
11-02-2011, 11:32 AM
I'm so excited to find your Trip Report. I just finished reading the articles about Lisa and Rachel and they were so sweet! Love all the pictures of the family, when everyone was younger - so cute. Can't wait to hear all about your trip. Looks like everyone enjoyed the limo ride, how cool!
Hi! hope you had a great rest of your trip! It was great to be able to meet up in Epcot!
**************************************
Judy, happy we got to talk for a few minutes....all will work out, just keep breathing, wish I could be there to help out, but know my thoughts, prayers and spirit will be with you all :hug:
blessedmom4
11-02-2011, 10:10 PM
Have you ever picked up the phone and had a little Disney magic on the other end? I had a call from someone who helped make Lisa’s Wish Trip spectacular and he called this afternoon to ask if he could share our number with someone we met at the park on “THE SATURDAY”. I can’t go into specifics of the day without spoiling the surprise ending to our TR; however, as I Thanked him once again for an amazing day he said to me that while he loved his job sometimes it becomes routine. According to the man who spreads magic for a living, meeting our family became FAR from routine for everyone that met us and we had managed to bring far more magic backstage than they had seen in a very long time...as he put it ”The excitement backstage both before AND after we left was palpable and we did more for them than they did for us. He was so excited and it made ME excited...I was grinning like a fool driving down the road to take David to Pete for his autism support group. I was again crying happy tears...how often can you say YOUR family caused that Disney happiness and excitement to those who are the experts are spreading that emotion?!? I realize this will not mean a thing to most of you...however, I am foreshadowing again...it was just the extra dose of Disney magic I needed as I plan to take my child yet again to a hospital 10 hours away for an extended hospitalization. If you were in the Magic Kingdom that day and saw what happened...you know what I mean. For those that missed it, I am so sorry...it was truly incredible! It was one of those moments that you could tell touched anyone with a heart...Today’s phone call brought all of those amazing emotions flooding back and I NEEDED that! God is amazing in His way of supporting me.
If you read this and you WERE there and have any pictures or video footage I would LOVE copies of it!
Pete’s Mom also called this afternoon, she left Maryland this morning and is spending the night only 3.5 hours away...what a relief for ME to get THAT call as well. Until that moment I truly had no way of knowing if we had help coming or not.
We have three MD appts tomorrow and David needs IV iron, plus ballet and theater... Thank you everyone for your kind messages and being happy for us about our trip. I will be back to answer responses and PM’s soon, I hope...The Limo truly was only the beginning of a stunning and heartfelt trip...It is hard to believe that Three weeks ago tonight we were anticipating that journey and now we are embarking on a less than pleasant one. We covet your prayers.
kimmg
11-02-2011, 10:42 PM
I'm so happy you got a bit more magic to help carry you through the coming weeks. Your family really does emit something special through your posts, so I can only imagine what would come through in person and in such a special moment. You've got prayers coming from us. :littleangel:
lovethattink
11-03-2011, 05:45 AM
Have you ever picked up the phone and had a little Disney magic on the other end? I had a call from someone who helped make Lisa’s Wish Trip spectacular and he called this afternoon to ask if he could share our number with someone we met at the park on “THE SATURDAY”. I can’t go into specifics of the day without spoiling the surprise ending to our TR; however, as I Thanked him once again for an amazing day he said to me that while he loved his job sometimes it becomes routine. According to the man who spreads magic for a living, meeting our family became FAR from routine for everyone that met us and we had managed to bring far more magic backstage than they had seen in a very long time...as he put it ”The excitement backstage both before AND after we left was palpable and we did more for them than they did for us. He was so excited and it made ME excited...I was grinning like a fool driving down the road to take David to Pete for his autism support group. I was again crying happy tears...how often can you say YOUR family caused that Disney happiness and excitement to those who are the experts are spreading that emotion?!? I realize this will not mean a thing to most of you...however, I am foreshadowing again...it was just the extra dose of Disney magic I needed as I plan to take my child yet again to a hospital 10 hours away for an extended hospitalization. If you were in the Magic Kingdom that day and saw what happened...you know what I mean. For those that missed it, I am so sorry...it was truly incredible! It was one of those moments that you could tell touched anyone with a heart...Today’s phone call brought all of those amazing emotions flooding back and I NEEDED that! God is amazing in His way of supporting me.
If you read this and you WERE there and have any pictures or video footage I would LOVE copies of it!
Pete’s Mom also called this afternoon, she left Maryland this morning and is spending the night only 3.5 hours away...what a relief for ME to get THAT call as well. Until that moment I truly had no way of knowing if we had help coming or not.
We have three MD appts tomorrow and David needs IV iron, plus ballet and theater... Thank you everyone for your kind messages and being happy for us about our trip. I will be back to answer responses and PM’s soon, I hope...The Limo truly was only the beginning of a stunning and heartfelt trip...It is hard to believe that Three weeks ago tonight we were anticipating that journey and now we are embarking on a less than pleasant one. We covet your prayers.
Wow!! That's great! Such encouraging words from Disney before you start your journey north. Perfect timing!
So glad help is on the way. Must be a huge relief to know. I can't believe you were in limbo all this time whether or not help was coming.
By the way, I sent you an email yesterday. My computer has been acting wonky. Not sure it got to you or not.
p00h4me
11-03-2011, 06:29 AM
That is an amazing call that came from Disney! We've all seen it here already how genuine and appreciative the whole family is through your words, pictures and videos for the support and big gives from the people on the DIS boards! I can only imagine the expression of joy and thankfulness that you showed those that you all were around on that special "Saturday" and touched them in a way that they haven't been in a while. Did this help fulfill a few of Lisa's wishes? So many hints but we have to wait to hear "the rest of the story" when you get to this day on your TR! So happy that this call was a blessing to you yesterday!
:yay: Happy to hear that Pete's mom is on her way to stay with Rachel and David!
Our thoughts and prayers will be with you all!:grouphug:
babynala
11-03-2011, 07:55 AM
What a great story, thanks for sharing. It brought a big smile and a little tear to my eye. I'm glad that phone call came to you but it just shows what an amazing family you have. Happy to hear that your mother in law is able to come. Good luck with all your appointments and we will keep your wonderful family in our prayers and thoughts.
mom2pixies
11-03-2011, 08:43 AM
First off--Welcome Home! I can't wait to back up and read through the trip report. I can't believe you already have this much done---I've been terrible at it. I keep meaning to get to it, but life gets in the way!
Second--thank you for the card. We received it on Friday! Such a sweet note. We consider ourselves blessed to help make Lisa's trip that much more magical!
Can't wait to check out the photos and stories....
mommy2mrb
11-03-2011, 10:39 AM
So happy the Disney magic has followed you home! I can just see your happy face :goodvibes
yay for Pete's mom coming! know what a huge relief that is for you! hope everything else is coming together for the trip.
sending so many prayers, hugs, happy thoughts and lots of pixie dust your way!
KatMark
11-03-2011, 12:28 PM
Judy, how wonderful having some Disney magic once you got home. :goodvibes:goodvibes:goodvibes
We are keeping all of you in our thoughts and prayers.
WDWRids
11-03-2011, 02:49 PM
How cool to get disney magic once you are home!!!! Can't wait to hear the details of "the Saturday"!! Shows how truly amazing your family is that all of you touched the hearts of those that create our happy place.
Glad to hear your help is on the way and wish her safe travels! Praying for your family as you go through the motions for your upcoming trip.
miprender
11-03-2011, 03:39 PM
Can't wait to read the details about that day:surfweb:
How amazing that you bought some magic to Disney:lmao: but your family is very special and everyone can see that:cloud9:
petals
11-03-2011, 07:38 PM
Yay for Disney Magic.... Boo for hospital. I hope that goes well for Lisa and will keep her in my thoughts of course and sending lots of pixie dust your way! :grouphug:
blessedmom4
11-04-2011, 12:09 AM
Just a quick note after a very long day. My MIL arrived this afternoon while we were at the MD getting David's IV iron. I was so relieved to see her.
We leave midday tomorrow and will stop by Christian's school so we can see him before we head towards Philly. It is pouring rain at the moment, I hope it stops by tomorrow; however, it isn't supposed to.
I would like to thank those of you who signed in and left us such kind words and for reliving some more Disney excitement with us. I will be checking in as I can and will possibly have some free time while Lisa is in the hospital to post the next installment of our journey...Thank you for you prayers and wonderful messages.
MAGICFOR2
11-04-2011, 12:38 AM
Hi Judy! I just saw your siggie in Marv's TR that said something about prayer - that's what I do, so I'm here, and holding your precious little girl and our family up. I'm happy Lisa had her wish trip, and I will be covering all of you for her surgery. I'll be back to read about the trip - and watch Rachel's video. Love In Christ, Tammie :hug:
lovethattink
11-04-2011, 05:18 AM
Just a quick note after a very long day. My MIL arrived this afternoon while we were at the MD getting David's IV iron. I was so relieved to see her.
We leave midday tomorrow and will stop by Christian's school so we can see him before we head towards Philly. It is pouring rain at the moment, I hope it stops by tomorrow; however, it isn't supposed to.
I would like to thank those of you who signed in and left us such kind words and for reliving some more Disney excitement with us. I will be checking in as I can and will possibly have some free time while Lisa is in the hospital to post the next installment of our journey...Thank you for you prayers and wonderful messages.
So glad you MIL arrived! That's great that you will be able to stop by Christian before you head towards Philly!
Praying for you all, the travel, and everyone you encounter along the way and at the hospital, both directly and indirectly.
karebear23
11-04-2011, 05:19 AM
How awesome is that! Always great to have a bit of extra magic!
Will be thinking of you all. Have a safe trip to Philly!
Look forward to hearing more about your amazing disney trip :goodvibes!
elizabethswan
11-04-2011, 06:18 AM
have a safe trip and know that all of your dis friends will be thinking of lisa and your family :)
DMGeurts
11-04-2011, 06:45 AM
Many, many prayers to all of you today - I am thinking of you and praying that you have a safe trip. (((Big hugs)))
D~
blessedmom4
11-04-2011, 07:31 AM
How WONDERFUL to log in this AM and see so many supportive messages, Thank YOU! It is POURING rain and there are lots of accidents around the city...Power outages through the night on our side of town, three schools have just been closed/canceled. Pete is working until around 10, and we should be heading out around 11ish. THANK YOU ALL for the continued prayers! I feel incredible calm and grace this AM!
homeschoolmomof4
11-04-2011, 07:51 AM
I've been a lurker for a while, but just wanted pop out of lurkdom to let you know that you and your lovely family have been in our prayers and will continue to be. Praying for safe travelling for you today. :goodvibes
WDWCP96
11-04-2011, 08:08 AM
Just wanted to stop in and say I love all the pictures from the limo.
So glad that your MIL arrived safely. I hope you have a safe drive and enjoy the AG store in Tyson's. Take some time to enjoy those two malls, it is a fun place to walk around. Also if you want Italian food go to Maggiano's it is fantastic.
If you need anything while in the DC area let me know as I am not thar far away and love to meet fellow DISers.
mommy2mrb
11-04-2011, 09:13 AM
Good Morning! will be saying continuous prayers for your safe trip up to Philly and that Lisa's cath will be smooth and easy for her :goodvibes
happy your MIL made it safe and know you will have that peace of mind she is there watching over David and Rachel.
you can always let me know and I can post updates for you too just in case you can't get the time.
drive safe today and I will check in with you over the weekend.
hugs and love
:hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug:
p00h4me
11-04-2011, 09:20 AM
We'll be praying for you all as you make your way to CHOP! Say Hi to Christian from us when you see him! Give Lisa lots of :hug:s from us too!
KatMark
11-04-2011, 10:00 AM
Judy, I am glad that your MIL has arrived. I pray that the weather gets better before your long drive, and I pray for Lisa as she goes through these procedures. :hug::hug: to all.
WDWRids
11-04-2011, 02:15 PM
The weather is horrible in NC today!! Please drive safely! Praying for an uneventful drive and everything goes smoothly getting checked into Philly. Keep us posted on how Lisa is doing. Take care!
cogero
11-04-2011, 03:18 PM
Sending prayers your way. Safe travels
aksunshine
11-04-2011, 05:36 PM
Prayers and PIXIE DUST!!!!!!
miprender
11-04-2011, 06:37 PM
How WONDERFUL to log in this AM and see so many supportive messages, Thank YOU! It is POURING rain and there are lots of accidents around the city...Power outages through the night on our side of town, three schools have just been closed/canceled. Pete is working until around 10, and we should be heading out around 11ish. THANK YOU ALL for the continued prayers! I feel incredible calm and grace this AM!
:grouphug: Judy sending prayers for everyone.
kayrosek
11-04-2011, 07:09 PM
Praying for you and your family and of course especially for Lisa as she goes through these procedures.
bushdianee
11-04-2011, 08:13 PM
I have been following your pre-trip and now your trip report. I want you to know that I am thinking of and praying for your family during this time. I don't know of many families that can endure and stick together through half of what your family has gone through. It is a true testament to your and your family's strengthand love.
blessedmom4
11-04-2011, 09:25 PM
WOW, what truly beautiful messages, my DIS friends are simply the BEST!!!!We had a great, albeit short visit with Christian. Lunch was delicious, we were able to take him to the grocery store for supplies and then play for a while in the campus arcade...it was a lot of fun! He should have been coming home this weekend, not staying on campus so it was GREAT to be able to see him before we left N.C.
Horrible weather is RIGHT...although once we crossed into Virginia at 5 PM it started improving drastically and absolutely NO rain here ....in Dumfries, Virginia! We made great time and Lisa kept saying she was feeling fine, so we continued driving. We stopped for McDonalds...The McRib is back...about the only thing I like at Mickey D's. We were looking through hotel coupon books as Lisa finished her fries and drove up the road a bit to Quantico, VA...we quickly left, the room rates were high. I finally got a nice lady on the phone at the Comfort Inn and we came in to the lobby to check in and discovered their pool would close in 15 minutes. Lisa's little eyes filled with tiny tear, the sweet lady took one look at her and told her she would keep the pool open until 11 PM, just for her. I think she will be tuckered out before then; however, we will see...They have a complimentary breakfast in the morning and Lisa is looking forward to some waffles! I have very little minutes left on my phone, the Ronald McDonald House called us at 4 PM and there was a bit of drama about our stay...it is sort of sorted out; however, we can't even find out until Sunday if they have a room for us or not, as expected...it was the unexpected stuff that was unsettling and took 4 phone calls and over 40 minutes to sort out..as we drove down the Interstate...But for now, we are safe, the hotel is wonderful, Rachel, David and Christian are safely at their respective beds and all is quiet except for the tap of the computer keys. I need to get Lisa's C-pap and other medical supplies set up for the night, I simply wanted to say THANK YOU for the prayers and support. It means a lot to us!
aksunshine
11-04-2011, 09:33 PM
Love you!! Night!!
reelmom
11-04-2011, 10:31 PM
I just found your TR and WOW! You are one busy lady. Looking forward to reading about your trip and saying prayers for Lisa, the doctors, and your family.
p00h4me
11-04-2011, 10:46 PM
Thanks for your update during your travels! Glad that you made it safely to Virginia and found a nice place to stay for the night! Hope Lisa got a chance to go swimming before bedtime!
We'll keep praying that the Lord will make a room available for you and Pete at the Ronald McDonald house when you arrive! :grouphug:
Mom2mitokids
11-05-2011, 12:03 AM
http://dl6.glitter-graphics.net/pub/3020/3020736tt0tzz5rw2.gif (http://www.glitter-graphics.com)
If you can spare a prayer.. Please Pray that Kylee can stay out of the hospital. We just got home from a 12 day stay and she had a KUB(xray) yesterday and it is horrible again. Lots of stool and air with a large colon. I just can't go back so soon. Thank you.
I will be continuing praying for Lisa and family. I know she will be in good hands in Philly. Love and hugs
MAGICFOR2
11-05-2011, 12:53 AM
http://dl6.glitter-graphics.net/pub/3020/3020736tt0tzz5rw2.gif (http://www.glitter-graphics.com)
If you can spare a prayer.. Please Pray that Kylee can stay out of the hospital. We just got home from a 12 day stay and she had a KUB(xray) yesterday and it is horrible again. Lots of stool and air with a large colon. I just can't go back so soon. Thank you.
I will be continuing praying for Lisa and family. I know she will be in good hands in Philly. Love and hugs
Of course, prayers for Kylee too!:hug:
kimmg
11-05-2011, 01:44 AM
Sending your family prayers tonight.:love:
http://dl6.glitter-graphics.net/pub/3020/3020736tt0tzz5rw2.gif (http://www.glitter-graphics.com)
If you can spare a prayer.. Please Pray that Kylee can stay out of the hospital. We just got home from a 12 day stay and she had a KUB(xray) yesterday and it is horrible again. Lots of stool and air with a large colon. I just can't go back so soon. Thank you.
I will be continuing praying for Lisa and family. I know she will be in good hands in Philly. Love and hugs
I'll be praying for Kylee and your family too. :hug:
blessedmom4
11-05-2011, 03:07 AM
If you can spare a prayer.. Please Pray that Kylee can stay out of the hospital. We just got home from a 12 day stay and she had a KUB(xray) yesterday and it is horrible again. Lots of stool and air with a large colon. I just can't go back so soon. Thank you.
I will be continuing praying for Lisa and family. I know she will be in good hands in Philly. Love and hugs
Kris, I am so sorry about Kylee. I simply don't understand why they can't get her on a regimen so that you can avoid the inpatient stays for clean out. I know she is miserable and I understand about too many hospital stays. :hug::grouphug::hug: Prayers for you, I hope you feel God's love and grace through this an remember that many are praying for you all.
Back to my little Princess...she came upstairs less than 5 minutes after I typed my update last night, she was happy but exhausted. She had to lie on me as I changed her and braided her hair for the night. She has a new nightgown, with a matching one for Molly and was THRILLED to finally be able to wear them. I had already changed Molly for her and she was waiting in the bed for Lisa to join her...where they are both sound asleep. Pete is sleeping soundly as well. Me? Doing Fine. I ask God to surround ALL who read here with His mercy and grace!
reelmom
11-05-2011, 07:24 AM
How are things going today? I have been praying all morning for Lisa.
p00h4me
11-05-2011, 07:32 AM
Kris, Know that we are praying for Kylee and that you both won't have to go back into the hospital so soon! I know how hard this is for the family when you are away so much. Praying that the doctors can find a solution to help Kylee empty out without having to do it at the hospital! Love and :grouphug:!
Good morning Judy! Hope Lisa had a good nights rest and is ready for the day ahead! Waffles sounds really yummy for breakfast too! Praying for continued safe travels and good weather!
blessedmom4
11-05-2011, 09:50 AM
Lisa and Pete are due back momentarily from their "last swim" before we head to Philly... we FINALLY have a place to stay, it only took me most of the AM. It is homecoming weekend I was informed from about twenty different phone calls and I should have made reservations a long time ago.
All is well and I am off to finish loading the van.
miprender
11-05-2011, 10:11 AM
Lisa and Pete are due back momentarily from their "last swim" before we head to Philly... we FINALLY have a place to stay, it only took me most of the AM. It is homecoming weekend I was informed from about twenty different phone calls and I should have made reservations a long time ago.
All is well and I am off to finish loading the van.
:grouphug: Safe travels.
p00h4me
11-05-2011, 12:40 PM
Lisa and Pete are due back momentarily from their "last swim" before we head to Philly... we FINALLY have a place to stay, it only took me most of the AM. It is homecoming weekend I was informed from about twenty different phone calls and I should have made reservations a long time ago.
All is well and I am off to finish loading the van.
:yay: Wonderful news to hear you have a place to stay!!!! :yay: PTL!!!
Mom2mitokids
11-05-2011, 01:34 PM
Kris, I am so sorry about Kylee. I simply don't understand why they can't get her on a regimen so that you can avoid the inpatient stays for clean out. I know she is miserable and I understand about too many hospital stays. :hug::grouphug::hug: Prayers for you, I hope you feel God's love and grace through this an remember that many are praying for you all.
Back to my little Princess...she came upstairs less than 5 minutes after I typed my update last night, she was happy but exhausted. She had to lie on me as I changed her and braided her hair for the night. She has a new nightgown, with a matching one for Molly and was THRILLED to finally be able to wear them. I had already changed Molly for her and she was waiting in the bed for Lisa to join her...where they are both sound asleep. Pete is sleeping soundly as well. Me? Doing Fine. I ask God to surround ALL who read here with His mercy and grace!
Thank you Judy:lovestruc she is on 6 different meds now for this issue. Problem is.. Her colon is very large and nerves are not working right. The next step is surgery to do a Cecostomy tube. I'm just not there right now. It's only a 50-50 chance that it'll work and also mean 3 tubes in her stomach. I do know it's in her future, just trying to hold off for a bit.
Praying for safe travels to Philly. I'm so glad you have a place to stay once there. I can not imagine the added stress that you don't need right now. Praying feverishly that all will go as planned. Love and hugs
Mom2mitokids
11-05-2011, 01:35 PM
Kris, Know that we are praying for Kylee and that you both won't have to go back into the hospital so soon! I know how hard this is for the family when you are away so much. Praying that the doctors can find a solution to help Kylee empty out without having to do it at the hospital! Love and :grouphug:!
Good morning Judy! Hope Lisa had a good nights rest and is ready for the day ahead! Waffles sounds really yummy for breakfast too! Praying for continued safe travels and good weather!
Thank you Gail:love:
Mom2mitokids
11-05-2011, 01:37 PM
Of course, prayers for Kylee too!:hug:
Thank you Tammie
lovethattink
11-05-2011, 03:18 PM
Judy, Safe travels! So glad you found a place to stay
Mom2mitokids, praying for you all too!
blessedmom4
11-05-2011, 05:10 PM
We have arrived in Philly and have a place for tonight...tomorrow is another adventure and we will just trust that by noon tomorrow we will know where we will put our heads down to sleep. It was a very tough journey here this afternoon and there is some kind of group here of older sorority women who are wandering the hallways laughing, screaming and drinking...so not sure how much sleeping we will be doing tonight anyway. Thankful to be in Philly, at least Lisa can be out of the car for a day before we check in to the hospital.
Kris, I wil continue to pray for you, Kylee and the rest of the family. I do understand about deciding on tough medical decisions, ESPECIALLY when outcomes aren't clear cut....I was so resistant to Lisa ever getting her feeding tube and her cardiologist and gastro love to tease me to this day about it. I DO realize it is different, just trying to let you know I support you always in your decisions for your family...you know them best AND know all of the outcomes/needs. Please just know I am praying! I know you are weary! :hug::grouphug::hug:
Wonders10
11-05-2011, 06:13 PM
Hi Judy! Saying more prayers that Lisa does wonderfully, you and your family do well too! Keep us posted...Winston sends a furry hug to Lisa!
lovethattink
11-05-2011, 06:17 PM
Glad you made it to Philly. Will be praying you find a great hotel at a super reasonable price very soon for you to stay tomorrow.
VBAndrea
11-05-2011, 06:38 PM
Judy, so glad you made it to Philly safely. I hope you are able to get a decent's night rest. I also hope things work out for the rest of your stay. I haven't been on the boards much lately, but I have been thinking about you.:hug:
If you can spare a prayer.. Please Pray that Kylee can stay out of the hospital. We just got home from a 12 day stay and she had a KUB(xray) yesterday and it is horrible again. Lots of stool and air with a large colon. I just can't go back so soon. Thank you.
:hug: to Kylee as well -- I wish her the best and hope she gets to remain at home.
mommy2mrb
11-05-2011, 08:54 PM
Happy to hear you have made it safely to Philly...hope Lisa and Pete enjoyed their swim time together!
Continued prayers that all will go smoothly for the procedures and that you will be able to stay at Ronald McDonalds.:hug::hug::hug:
Kris, sorry to hear about Kylee, sending prayers your way also :hug::hug:
cogero
11-05-2011, 09:16 PM
Judy so happy to hear you arrived safely in Philly.
Kris praying for Kylee
sheridee32
11-05-2011, 10:42 PM
Glad yall made ot there safely hope everything works out at the Ronald McDonald house. Morgan said to tell you she got the letter and you didnt need to send her one but she loved it. She said to take care of Lisa. They are funally going to send her to a nephrologist (I know its not spelled right) so we can get some answers about her pain I didn't realize that the Dr she was seeing was a Urologist or I would have suggested the other sooner. Our family is sending good vibes and lots of prayers out for yall. Stay safe.
blessedmom4
11-05-2011, 10:47 PM
When I last left you, we had just arrived in style at the airport and were so happy/excited. We were dropped off at the USAir terminal so we didn’t have far to travel. We went inside and the line/wait was LONG! After about 5 minutes a gentleman came and directed us to the First Class line. I inquired if he was sure it was okay and he said he was the supervisor, no worries. Unfortunately the man behind the counter didn't get the memo and gave me a hard time at first...until I looked the manager’s way and he came over to say he had directed us to this line. He waited on us; however, he wasn’t happy...we were too excited to let his gruff manner make us unhappy! We checked one bag and proceeded to TSA...with 6 carry-ons, 6 personal items, 2 medical bags and a c-pap machine. Then the fun really began. We noticed security was MUCH tighter than it had been when Pete’s Dad died and we flew in August. There was none of the jovial banter that there had been that day and the lines were long. For some reason, David kept setting the machine off...we never did figure out exactly why. LIsa was scrutinized very carefully and they even discovered a pack under the seat I forgot we had! They gave us a very hard time with Lisa’s drink, even after I produced the prescription. It took me calling the ladies name three separate times and asking her by name if she was denying LIsa her medical drink. I asked for her supervisor, who came right over, tested the drink and cleared her immediately with lots of apologies...I DO understand the security measures it is just a pain and so inconsistent, that I wonder how much good it actually does. In the meantime, while all of this was going on, Rachel had been flagged to have her crocs checked...so funny! We FINALLY made it through security, redressed, collected al of our belongings and headed for our gate. After we got settled, Rachel and I went straight to the newsstand to purchase a newspaper...I wanted to see her article in print! I asked the woman who took my money if she recognized the young lady in the photo...she said no, However, the sweet lady who greeted us as we came in to the store came over and immediately realized it was Rachel....it was SO much fun! When we finally loaded, we realized a friend from the tour choir Rachel is on hiatus from was sitting directly in front of us! She graduated last year and went off to college, so it was great to catch up ..and share the newspaper article with her and her Mom.
As you see, the children were having an amazing time.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Airport%20and%20car%20rental/IMG_1072.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Airport%20and%20car%20rental/IMG_1073.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Airport%20and%20car%20rental/IMG_1074.jpg
I kept hoping for a little airport magic...allowing the children to go to the cockpit, a special drink (They let Lisa have chocolate milk on our trip to Baltimore back in August; however, not on the way back), a special have a good time...NOTHING!...There wasn’t any magic, although I kept telling the flight attendants anytime they were near, lol. We heard them wish TWO different people happy birthday. FINALLY, as we were landing the last flight attendant I told welcomed a special Princess on her Make a Wish trip...Lisa BEAMED with happiness and several people wished her a good time as they exited the plane. Finally everyone was off and we could leave! We eagerly found our way towards the monorail ride, so that we could collect our bags. It was fun!
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Airport%20and%20car%20rental/IMG_1075.jpg
We walked towards baggage claim where we met Stephen, our GKTW Greeter.
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Airport%20and%20car%20rental/IMG_1077.jpg
He had a HUGE smile on his face and you could tell he truly loved what he does. He posed for pictures with us,
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Airport%20and%20car%20rental/IMG_1078.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Airport%20and%20car%20rental/IMG_1080.jpg
then deftly led us to baggage claim to collect everything andtook us to our rental car agency. He told us GKTW prefers National, so naturally our MAW chapter uses Avis...we did find this amusing. He regaled us with stories about the Village, most of the info I had learned right here on the DIS and told us about himself. He works at Crystal Palace, 4 ten hour days, so that he can have three days off each week and he volunteers every Thursday as an airport greeter for GKTW. He also has a famous cousin...who is the voice of SPONGEBOB! That intrigued all four of my children who asked him many questions about that.
Finally, after some initial problems with the rental agency, we found our vehicle (we didn’t get a choice, as some wish families report they do). It was a HUGE Ford Expedition...with less trunk room than my Van. This was NOT our vehicle...but a cute picture of the girls, nonetheless...
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Airport%20and%20car%20rental/IMG_1082.jpg
We managed to finally get everything in this HUGE vehicle and we were off for our first glimpse of Give Kids The World Village...what an amazing treat that was! I am including my photos, even though the stock photos that we have all seen on here before, are better...You get to see it from my perspective, with the sun casting beams of light all around..it was exciting!
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Airport%20and%20car%20rental/IMG_1084.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/Airport%20and%20car%20rental/IMG_1087.jpg
Up next...We are HOME!!!!
mommy2mrb
11-05-2011, 11:31 PM
yay an update....but you should be in bed sleeping my sweet friend!
sorry for the grumpy check in guy and issues going through security...but you made it through in one piece!
how nice you got to visit with a friend of Rachels and that she got recognized at the airport!
your greater looks like a very nice man!
yes your expedition was HUGE!
will try to call tomorrow....PM me your hotel info
night, sweet dreams to you all!
:hug:
MAGICFOR2
11-06-2011, 12:11 AM
I read your Limo adventures this morning - along with the videos of Rachel performing! :thumbsup2 How fun to log on and see you arriving at GKTW tonight!:yay: I'm so excited to read all about your adventures. Thanks for keeping us updated of your current trip and surgery for Lisa! I will keep lifting all of you up.
kimmg
11-06-2011, 12:23 AM
Was so excited to read your update. :cool1: I'm so happy you had a nice greeter but I wish you had gotten more well wishes on the plane. Saying prayers for Lisa and the rest of your family tonight!
VBAndrea
11-06-2011, 04:42 AM
Yay on the latest update! Are you staying up so late since you got an extra hour of sleep to think about? Sadly no one told my dogs it was daylight savings.
I'm really excited for your next update -- I love hearing about families arriving at GKTW!
that's nice
11-06-2011, 05:45 AM
Okay Tim...you laughed after you said it, did you mean it?!?...I like organization, I would be :eek::eek::eek: without staying that way! Taking our Mickey cooler to Philly, so you and the family will be with us in spirit!
Sorry, I was being serious! ::yes:: ;)
I'm glad you are able to bring the cooler with you! It's like keeping a bit of the magic with you. Kathy & Marv sent us the same cooler with treats to GKTW when we were on Juliana's Wish Trip. Every time we use it, it reminds us of her trip.
The limo looks so fun! In one of the pictures it looked like Lisa was holding an 'adult drink' :rotfl:
Airports are fun aren't they? :rolleyes: I try not to take the people that work there attitude personally, but sometimes they are ridiculous.
You made it to FL & GKTW!!!! Aren't the volunteers the nicest people.... the village is magical but it wouldn't be that way without the volunteers. :worship::worship:
Good luck to Lisa!!!! We've been praying for her every night. :flower3:
If you can spare a prayer.. Please Pray that Kylee can stay out of the hospital. We just got home from a 12 day stay and she had a KUB(xray) yesterday and it is horrible again. Lots of stool and air with a large colon. I just can't go back so soon. Thank you.
Kris, I'm so sorry to her about Kylee. Seems like the poor kid can't catch a break. We will be praying for her too. :flower3:
karebear23
11-06-2011, 05:49 AM
Wow! I wasn't expecting an update!
Sorry security was a pain! I never understand how each time you go it is different!
Can't wait to see GKTW!
p00h4me
11-06-2011, 05:53 AM
Glad you made it to Philly and hope it was quiet enough so you could get some sleep last night!
Another update! :woohoo::yay::banana: Seems the manager of the airline check in recognized you as a MAW family and helped you get through the line faster! :thumbsup2 Too bad you had to run into a grumpy guy at the counter though!:sad2: That's strange that they pulled Rachel over to check over her Crocs! :rotfl: Bummer on trying to get the air crew to even acknowledge or recognize that Lisa is on her MAW trip! Glad you finally got a flight attendant to make an announcement about Princess Lisa on her MAW trip right before you landed and that it made Lisa happy!
At least you had a wonderful GKTW greeter waiting for you at the airport! What a wonderful sight the GKTW sign must have been! I know how much you all were looking forward to staying there. Can't wait to see pictures of your Villa!
lovethattink
11-06-2011, 06:07 AM
Great update! I hope everything goes great for you all in Philly. Thinking and praying for you there and the rest of the family at home.
mommyof2princesses
11-06-2011, 06:59 AM
I found your trip report! YEAH! Following along!
DMGeurts
11-06-2011, 07:29 AM
Great update.... I am super excited to hear about the rest ofyour trip!
Thinking of you and the rest of the family - still praying that things go well in Philly. :lovestruc
D~
cogero
11-06-2011, 08:18 AM
Love the update.
I love the continuous big smiles on the kids faces.
miprender
11-06-2011, 11:05 AM
:cool1: Another update!
The car behind you in your pic is the same one we had on our trip in July except we used Alamo:lmao:
loving all your pics and report.
Hope all is well with your family today, can't wait to read more as you can update!
Owensheart
11-06-2011, 04:18 PM
I am loving the trip report so far! Glad you made it to Philly and I sure hope they find room in the RMH soon. Ours is always full at Stanford and it adds up staying in hotels.
What day is the actual cath procedure? I know they have to do a Coumadin wean and probably some pre-op clinic. Our prayers are with Lisa. She is in great hands at CHOP. Keep us posted! :)
petals
11-06-2011, 07:15 PM
Love the update.
Boo to grumpy check in guy but love the stories bout the GKTW greeter. Wonder if I'll see him at CP this month!
blessedmom4
11-06-2011, 08:10 PM
Thank you everyone for the wonderful messages. I am happy to say that we are at the Ronald McDonald House and will be here until we make our way back to NC. Lisa will be admitted to the hospital tomorrow morning to start on the heparin. The cath is scheduled for Wednesday, we will find out the time tomorrow. Both Lisa (mommy2mrb) and Gail (p00h4me) know how to send Lisa cards and e-cards if anyone else wants that info. Thank you for the continued prayers!
mommy2mrb
11-06-2011, 08:16 PM
Judy....I am so happy we got to talk a bit today and that you were blessed to stay at Ronald McDonald House, know that took a lot of the financial pressure off of you!
Yes, I am happy to pass along the info for Lisa to get any goodies, just let me know when you have her room number!
so anyone who wants to send our sweet princess anything, please PM me and I will get back to you!
hope you all get a great nights sleep and have sweet dreams :hug::hug::hug:
KatMark
11-06-2011, 08:16 PM
Great update, Judy. Glad that someone at the airport was able to move you along and you didn't have to wait in the long line. Glad you got such a great greeter at the airport and that you have arrived at GKTW. Can't wait for the next update.
Glad you have arrived safely in Philly. We are keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
MaryAz
11-06-2011, 08:38 PM
Coming out of lurkdom to say that we are praying for Lisa. I am enjoying your trip report. I also admire your deep faith. Lots of :hug: for all of you.
Moira222
11-06-2011, 09:41 PM
Judy, I logged in to see how you were and was 8 pages behind! I had no idea uou were in Philly this week. I am so glad you founs a rm @ ronald mcdonald...a friend said they were great.
You updates are wonderful - love the reaction to tje limo but not the security folks :(
Prayers for you and lisa!
merbobear
11-06-2011, 10:16 PM
Thank you everyone for the wonderful messages. I am happy to say that we are at the Ronald McDonald House and will be here until we make our way back to NC. Lisa will be admitted to the hospital tomorrow morning to start on the heparin. The cath is scheduled for Wednesday, we will find out the time tomorrow. Both Lisa (mommy2mrb) and Gail (p00h4me) know how to send Lisa cards and e-cards if anyone else wants that info. Thank you for the continued prayers!
Thank God for RMHC! We live minutes from a hospital, so when my dd was in the icu when she was younger, we did not stay at a RMH, however the Children's hospital we were in did have a RMH Family Room..and honestly I am so thankful for it, the volunteers were so kind and even just having a calm place to go sit and escape for a few minutes was truly a lifesaver. I'm so glad that you are able to stay at the RMH while Lisa is hospitalized.
lovethattink
11-07-2011, 05:44 AM
So glad to hear you got into the Ronald McDonald house. We are checking out schools for Grumpy today. Anakin can write a note to Lisa, that will give him something fun to do while he waits on us.
p00h4me
11-07-2011, 05:58 AM
I'm so happy to read that you got into the Ronald McDonald House! What an answer to prayer! Keeping you all and the doctors and nurses in our thoughts and prayers!
VBAndrea
11-07-2011, 06:15 AM
Thank you everyone for the wonderful messages. I am happy to say that we are at the Ronald McDonald House and will be here until we make our way back to NC. Lisa will be admitted to the hospital tomorrow morning to start on the heparin. The cath is scheduled for Wednesday, we will find out the time tomorrow. Both Lisa (mommy2mrb) and Gail (p00h4me) know how to send Lisa cards and e-cards if anyone else wants that info. Thank you for the continued prayers!
I am soooo happy your accommodations are taken care of. My ds's Kindergarten class once did a collection of goodies that were sent to the Ronald McDonald House -- it was fun and a great charity. I not long ago looked into what our children's hospital needed sewing wise for donations (which was zilch!) but I never thought to inquire with RMH -- must do that.
Hugs to you and hopes for an uneventful hospital stay for Lisa.
blessedmom4
11-07-2011, 06:46 AM
Thank you again for all of the support, I am waiting for the princess to wake up, we have to leave shortly and I am trying to be quiet so she can get as much rest as possible before our odyssey begins....
mommy2mrb
11-07-2011, 08:42 AM
Good Morning, sure you are already at the hospital....praying the admitting process goes smoothly, Lisa gets settled in quickly and that you don't have a noisy roommate this time!
will check in with you in a few hours!
love and hugs!!!!!
WDWRids
11-07-2011, 09:03 AM
So glad you are in Philly safe and settled into the Ronald McDonald House!!:)
Hope all goes well with Lisa today!
Will be praying for you all!
elizabethswan
11-07-2011, 11:31 AM
sending good thoughts hoping things go smoothly for lisa at chop:flower3:
wishin' on a star
11-07-2011, 01:40 PM
I am praying for Lisa, Judy. I hope you are settled in, and I'm sending my thoughts that the cath goes smoothly. I wish I could make a little journey up to CHOP and keep you company.
blessedmom4
11-07-2011, 02:01 PM
After we unpacked and got semi settled they just came in to tell us we were going to switch rooms to a PRIVATE room AND Bath! Woo hoo! Lisa B has the room number. That is good news, just wish they told us before I unpacked...haha. Pete and I are hungry, but can't get anything till they move us..but the Princess finally ate at 2:30! Now we are waiting for IV's times two and praying they get her on the first two tries! THEN they will move us! So happy to be here FINALLY! We just got home from Disney 2 weeks ago, seems like a lifetime...
KatMark
11-07-2011, 02:14 PM
After we unpacked and got semi settled they just came in to tell us we were going to switch rooms to a PRIVATE room AND Bath! Woo hoo! Lisa B has the room number. That is good news, just wish they told us before I unpacked...haha. Pete and I are hungry, but can't get anything till they move us..but the Princess finally ate at 2:30! Now we are waiting for IV's times two and praying they get her on the first two tries! THEN they will move us! So happy to be here FINALLY! We just got home from Disney 2 weeks ago, seems like a lifetime...
Judy, that is great news! You will all be so much more comfortable that way. Keeping you in thoughts and prayers. :hug:
kayrosek
11-07-2011, 02:54 PM
Wow an update. I love seeing your beautiful children and their happy smiling faces. Glad you guys have arrived and are all settled in at RMH with the private room. Praying for your family.
mommy2mrb
11-07-2011, 03:27 PM
Yay for a private room! will be so great Lisa will be able to rest more comfortable!
continued prayers being sent :goodvibes
:hug::hug::hug::hug::hug:
lovethattink
11-07-2011, 03:44 PM
After we unpacked and got semi settled they just came in to tell us we were going to switch rooms to a PRIVATE room AND Bath! Woo hoo! Lisa B has the room number. That is good news, just wish they told us before I unpacked...haha. Pete and I are hungry, but can't get anything till they move us..but the Princess finally ate at 2:30! Now we are waiting for IV's times two and praying they get her on the first two tries! THEN they will move us! So happy to be here FINALLY! We just got home from Disney 2 weeks ago, seems like a lifetime...
More prayers answered!!! A private room!!
p00h4me
11-07-2011, 03:51 PM
What a wonderful blessing and answer to prayer that Lisa got a private room! Praying that the rest of your stay at CHOP will go smoothly too!
babynala
11-07-2011, 04:18 PM
Love the update from your trip. Security is always the worst part of the trip. Your greeter seemed really nice and how fun that his cousin is a super star!
I hope everything is going well with Lisa today and that you and Pete are able to get some rest. Glad to hear that everything is working out well at the Ronald McDonald House.
miprender
11-07-2011, 06:43 PM
Thank you Judy:lovestruc she is on 6 different meds now for this issue. Problem is.. Her colon is very large and nerves are not working right. The next step is surgery to do a Cecostomy tube. I'm just not there right now. It's only a 50-50 chance that it'll work and also mean 3 tubes in her stomach. I do know it's in her future, just trying to hold off for a bit.
:hug: Kris missed your post earlier but sending prayers for Kylee too. :hug:
After we unpacked and got semi settled they just came in to tell us we were going to switch rooms to a PRIVATE room AND Bath! Woo hoo! Lisa B has the room number. That is good news, just wish they told us before I unpacked...haha. Pete and I are hungry, but can't get anything till they move us..but the Princess finally ate at 2:30! Now we are waiting for IV's times two and praying they get her on the first two tries! THEN they will move us! So happy to be here FINALLY! We just got home from Disney 2 weeks ago, seems like a lifetime...
:cool1: Yeah for a private room.
DMGeurts
11-07-2011, 07:43 PM
I am very happy for you that you got a private room... I hope that the first two tries with the IVs are successful...
And as always - BIG prayers and BIG hugs!
D~
wishin' on a star
11-08-2011, 07:49 AM
Hooray for a private room! :cool1: What difference that makes in a hospital stay!!! I hope the IV's were easy and that today is uneventful. I'm thinking of you guys and praying for you.:hug:
mommy2mrb
11-08-2011, 10:35 AM
Good Morning!
hope Lisa and you had a restful night's sleep and that today goes great :goodvibes
continued prayers being sent your way!
:hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug:
Moira222
11-08-2011, 11:16 AM
Prayers for Lisa (and you & Pete!) today Judy.
glad that you received a private room, though no doubt once Lisa is in CHOP you'll be there non stop at least if you want you can spell each other to try for sleep. :hug:
p00h4me
11-08-2011, 01:45 PM
Praying that all is going according to plan for the procedure tomorrow and that Lisa is doing well! :hug:
petals
11-08-2011, 01:49 PM
Horray on the private room. Thinking of Lisa :flower3:
blessedmom4
11-08-2011, 02:56 PM
We finally tried to go to sleep last night around 11:30 and that is when everyone decided it was time to disturb us. I will not bore you with the grim details and lack of sleep, if you have ever been hospitalized you already know. Lisa needed heparin IV checks every hour, vital checks every two, blood draws' every 4 hours...then her heart rate dipped into the thirties and forties and they freaked out...forgetting that I had already told them that when she was sleeping, her bradycardia could be that low routinely...and it was. Plus we have a child next door who cries all the time, poor sweetie...and poor us. However, we have a bathroom, Praise the Lord!
So, what did I do when I couldn't sleep and was slightly delirious? I worked on the next installment of our amazing trip! I have had lots of stops and starts today; however, I am finally able to post after being downstairs for a two hour ECHO! No results yet. WE are waiitng to find out what time the cathis scheuld for tomorrow, so we can make our plans for the evening. Lisa and Gail THANK YOU for Lisa’s e-cards, she loved them. Laura, Moira and anyone else who might find themselves in the area...we would LOVE to see you, please feel free to say hello should you find yourself with the time and the opportunity, what a treat that would be!
Back to my story...We entered the gates of GKTW, as you saw in the prior Disney update and they instructed us to go directly to the House of Hearts. Everyone piled out of the SUV and in to the fun building. They began the check in process and Lisa played on a game at the computer kiosk, while the older ones sat in the lounge area, it had been an early morning!
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/8c012af4.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/e5740d28.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/44fc1c81.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/9ecdb0f1.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/7f580d01.jpg
Lisa’s first glimpse of GKTW and all of the magic it contained. I have NO idea what happened to some of our photos, I had Rachel receiving her Shamu (they didn’t include Christian on any of the special children’s gift...they said he was too old, poor sweetie...too old at 21.David gave his Shamu to Lisa, which was so sweet). Lisa LOVED her Mickey MOuse...but I have no idea where some of the photos went....
They checked us in and told us our villa wasn’t ready; however, we could roam around the village and get some lunch.I asked about orientation, as you may know, you have to go to orientation to get your tickets and special button/passes to navigate through the theme parks. They typically do an orientation in the mornings, evenings and sometimes in the afternoon. I had checked prior to arriving if they would have a three PM orientation on our arrival day and I was assured they would. They celebrate Christmas each and every Thursday night at the village and I did NOT want to miss out on the fun. Those who have known us a while know our past THREE Christmases have NOT been good, due to medical reasons. I wanted to celebrate!!! An exceptionally kind volunteer offered to do an individual orientation for me so I sat through all of the info (which, thanks to prior research, I already knew. I can’t imagine having it all dumped in my lap at orientation. I would have been completely overwhelmed without a plan)! I was so grateful!
While I sat through the hows and whys, Pete took the children over to Ambervile Train Station to play. There was some small video games, Model boats to navigate around the water from steering wheels inside, game systems like the wii and a huge miniature village with trains moving around inside, as well as a train tat rode on a track suspended for the ceiling. One of the volunteers regaled the children with stories of trains, which they all enjoyed, especially David...and for everyone that doesn’t know it was all FREE! No coins needed, except for tokens from the claw game where everyone could easily win a McDonald's happy meal prize. There is even a small train ride, which we all loved and so much more that I can’t possible share it all here. They had a blast...and ME? I had to keep everything straight, there was a LOT to go over and I was happy to have the Bunny Book...it is the book they give you at orientation full of information you need to navigate the village. We had one small glitch, they had not included tickets for Christian to anything. After speaking with one of the mangers, she had me get Christian. He had to prove that he sill lived in our home and they did give us tickets for the theme parks. He was NOT included in any of the special things reserved for those under 18, such as the special pillows. He said it was okay; however I know he would have liked one...I am gong to learn how to make them and make different pillowcases for the other three to interchange their pillowcases as well. Up next...LUNCH!
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/765bb9f6.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/136980b0.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/0a139d2b.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/b5e9e7a3.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/aa91c5ce.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/4182c2cd.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/8000299b.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/0642c0e0.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/4fbc444c.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/507688e8.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/ee271fb9.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/a5edc9ab.jpg
http://i95.photobucket.com/albums/l157/bunnyboo5/8e8ded6e.jpg
Theses were photos Pete took of the children roaming around Amberville Train Station while I was at orientation.
lovethattink
11-08-2011, 03:13 PM
Yay for the bathroom. So sorry for the lack of sleep, hospitals are the worst place for getting rest.
Great update! That's too bad that Christian wasn't included. The trains are very impressive!
TLHB70
11-08-2011, 03:19 PM
continuing to keep Lisa and your family in my prayers...... :hug:
The pictures are wonderful!
miprender
11-08-2011, 03:29 PM
:cool1: Yeah for another update!
:hug: Still keeping Lisa and your family in our prayers.:hug:
mommy2mrb
11-08-2011, 04:38 PM
Tell Lisa she's welcome for the card....more are coming ;) so many people love your sweet girl!
so happy they had given you a private orientation so you didn't miss out on the Christmas party! GKTW is such an awesome place and we loved spending our day with you all there, they even made us feel special!
sorry you didn't get a good night's sleep, but unfortunately that's what happens in hospitals, hope you got a nap in somewhere today.
sending prayers that the ECHO results will be great! any word yet on when the cath is tomorrow?
sending lots of love and :hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug:
p00h4me
11-08-2011, 04:50 PM
Sorry to hear you didn't get much sleep from all the interruptions! So glad that Lisa already received the e-cards from the hospital! That's nice for them to do that for their patients. I'll try to send one every day she is there. Hope others will want to join in too!
Love your new update from the trip! That was nice you got a great GKTW volunteer that offered to give you a personal orientation so you could attend the Christmas party that evening! Sorry that it seemed some of your pictures disappeared! Even though Christian wasn't allowed to do a few of the things in the village, at least you were given park tickets for him!
Hope you all will be able to get a little more sleep tonight!
petals
11-08-2011, 05:04 PM
aw that's so bad that Christian wasn't included. They could have been nice and let him have a pillow!
kimmg
11-08-2011, 08:01 PM
I'm so glad Lisa got a private room! That can make such a difference. I hope you were able to get some more sleep. I remember our whole family sleeping late into the day a couple of times because of how crazy the nights could be.
Such a great update! I'm so sorry Christian didn't get added correctly and get a pillow. It sounds like they worked it out for the most part. That's great you got a private orientation so that you could enjoy the Christmas party! I look forward to reading more and we'll still continue to pray for Lisa.
cogero
11-08-2011, 08:25 PM
Yeah for the private room. Sending lots of prayers your way.
Mom2mitokids
11-08-2011, 09:17 PM
Praying for Lisa tomorrow. I hope you give us an update when you can. That's so cool that CHOP has Ecards. Kylee would love to get cards but our hospital doesn't have this...not yet.
Loving your trip report. Sorry about the mix up with Christian. I don't think it would of hurt them to let him have a pillow. I still say he's a kid...gosh I'm a kid.. I loved the pillow. I always take it with us to the hospital and I always end up with it. Can't wait to hear more. Love and hugs
MaryAz
11-08-2011, 09:57 PM
Hurray for a private room!! I am praying for Lisa tpmorrow!!
mphalens
11-08-2011, 10:52 PM
Prayers, prayers & more prayers for Lisa tomorrow. And for you and Pete while she's having the procedure, and for the kids at home and college who can't be there with y'all.
So glad to see the update! I was worried but should have known you'd be taken care of :) A private room and bath!!!
Please let me know if there's anything you need from Charlotte - you know I'm happy to send it if I can :hug:
kayrosek
11-09-2011, 02:28 AM
Praying for Lisa and her procedure and for you and Pete as you support your sweet princess. :grouphug:
homeschoolmomof4
11-09-2011, 05:22 AM
Praying for you and your family today. :hug:
p00h4me
11-09-2011, 05:38 AM
Praying for Lisa today that positive news will come out of her cardiac cath! :hug:s to you all!
Sent you a PM!
blessedmom4
11-09-2011, 06:06 AM
After I posted yesterday we received some news that doesn't sound encouraging. They feel Lisa's Mitral Valve Implant isn't working as well as they had thought and it actually seemed worse than the pulmonary stenosis at this point. They also think the pain all the way back to January WAS and is cardiac related (DUH! I didn't need a test to tell me what I have been saying all along). Of course, after todays cath, which is scheduled for noon, we will hopefully know more answers. Although they told us to not expect an immediate decision, they will have to calculate the values and weigh many variables...then present Lisa at conference to decide what is the best plan. The good news is, she slept all night and Pete is still asleep. I got less sleep than them and I returned to the RMH for 8 hours (includes travel time). It takes 10 minutes just to walk to the parking lot here and then navigate OUT of the parking lot and drive through Philly...we are simply THANKFUL to be here at CHOP. They are the best!
After the news yesterday, it appeared Lisa was getting ill...sore throat, fever, sneezing. THANKFULLY her temp was down through the night and the plan is to cath as scheduled..it really scared us though! We do NOT want to have to postpone this cath if we don't have to.
I am not up for individual responses at the moment. I spent most of the night crying and praying, so while I am refreshed in one way, I am still not rested. Hopefully the Princess and her Dad WILL be...they need/require more rest than I do and it WAS nice to have a bed to stretch out on.
To all of our faithful friends, loyal readers, new friends who have begun to post and yes, our lurkers...it means a lot to me to know you are there lifting us up and I KNOW God Loves Lisa even more than I do, He will protect her during todays once again scary cath. They need to get simultaneous pressures and she has an occlusion to her right femoral artery...and they need to put the cath in two places to get these numbers. Our favorite anesthesiologist is putting Lisa to sleep, so that is a comfort and we do trust these great minds and skilled hands. Just please contiue to blanket us in prayer, we will be in the cardiac recovery unit most of the day. I hope I will have access to a computer, it keeps me (sort of :rotfl2:) sane. It is a huge comfort to log in and see your messages of support...it DOES help!
xanphylus
11-09-2011, 06:17 AM
Will be paying for you guys tonight. I know I haven't been on much, but i have been reading it all and praying for you all the entire time. God bless.
TLHB70
11-09-2011, 06:25 AM
Lisa and all of your family will be in my prayers today. :hug:
lovethattink
11-09-2011, 06:28 AM
Oh Judy, I'm so sorry the heart news was worse than expected and that she is getting sick. Did they tell you in front of Lisa or do they take you and Pete in private? Continuing prayers for all of you! How is everything going for Rachel and David on the home front with their grandmother?
TLHB70
11-09-2011, 06:49 AM
Somebody's Praying
Somebody's prayin, I can feel it
Somebody's prayin' for me
Mighty hands are guiding me
To protect me from what I can't see
Lord I believe, Lord I believe
That somebody's prayin', for me.
Angels are watchin', I can feel it
Angels are watchin' over me
There's many miles ahead 'til I get home
Still I'm safely kept before your throne
'Cause Lord I believe, Lord I believe
Your angels are watchin' over me.
Well, I've walked through barren wilderness
When my pillow was a stone
And I've been through the darkest caverns
Where no light had ever shown.
Still I went on 'cause there was someone
Who was down on their knees
And Lord. I thank you for those people
Prayin' all this time for me.
Somebody's prayin', I can feel it
Somebody's prayin' for me
Mighty hands are guiding me
To protect me from what I can't see
Lord I believe, Lord I believe
Somebody's prayin' for me...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=**_h_IRfRe8
mommy2mrb
11-09-2011, 08:17 AM
sorry to hear you didn't get encouraging reports....praying so hard that the cath will be successful and happy Lisa will have your favorite Dr's with her during the procedure.
hope she doesn't get worse with the sore throat and can continue to get lots of good rest along with you and Pete too!
Remember we are all praying and sending positive thoughts to you all, her Doctors and staff to keep our sweet Lisa safe. She is surrounded by so much love!
:hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug:
WDWRids
11-09-2011, 08:18 AM
Judy, so sorry to hear the news yesterday was not what you were expecting. Hoping the cath goes well today and delivers a clear plan of care that can be done to heal Lisa. So thankful to hear you got a private room!! I work in a hospital and know how unrestful it can be when receiving the meds and the care she is receiving. We are all praying that this will just be a speed bump and she will be feeling much better soon.
Question - are you a Starbucks drinker? Do they have one at CHOP? If so, go grab you a nice hot cup of coffee or tea and know that all of us are holding you all up in prayer during her cath today.:flower3:
p00h4me
11-09-2011, 08:35 AM
:hug:s to you Judy! I know that was news you didn't want to hear concerning the condition of Lisa's heart. Know that we will continue to lift up Lisa in prayer and that the doctors can find out for sure during the cardiac cath what is truly happening! Praying for wisdom for the doctors as they decide what's the best procedure to take next for Lisa's heart condition! So glad to hear that Lisa and Pete got a good night's sleep! Praying also that after sleeping well through the night that Lisa is feeling better! Take care of yourself too! Love to you all!
blessedmom4
11-09-2011, 09:48 AM
We just had news that the cath has been bumped to the early afternoon....we are calm and at peace. Thank you for the continued prayers. As always happens, today is the day Lisa wants to eat...she hasn't had anything since yesterday at lunch except for liquids because she wasn't hungry. But she is hungry this morning, poor sweetie...
lovethattink
11-09-2011, 09:57 AM
Poor girl. I hope you can find something to do with her that will take her mind off food. I hope it doesn't get bumped again, and the rest of the day goes smoothly. Did you get the 2 ecards from us? One from Anakin and one from me?
VBAndrea
11-09-2011, 12:19 PM
:grouphug: to all of you on this difficult day. My thoughts are with you all and I hope for an uneventful cardiac cath and a yummy dinner for the Princess :flower3:
wishin' on a star
11-09-2011, 12:21 PM
Grrrrrr for getting bumped! I'm sorry she's hungry and now has to wait. I hope today brings solid information that will help Lisa. I know for Catherine, her appearance says one thing, the echo says another, but the cath tells it like it is. I went to mass this morning, and prayed for Lisa. :hug:
DMGeurts
11-09-2011, 12:28 PM
I just wanted to let you know that I am here, and I am praying for all of you, especially Lisa.
D~
blessedmom4
11-09-2011, 12:51 PM
Lisa was just taken downstairs for her cath. Pete has gone to get us something from the cafeteria, I never leave the floor, something always happens if I do. She should be in the cath approximately 3 hours and then 6 hours in the Cardiac Recovery Unit. PLEASE keep the prayers coming. Your messages of support mean the world to us!
KatMark
11-09-2011, 12:54 PM
Lisa was just taken downstairs for her cath. Pete has gone to get us something from the cafeteria, I never leave the floor, something always happens if I do. She should be in the cath approximately 3 hours and then 6 hours in the Cardiac Recovery Unit. PLEASE keep the prayers coming. Your messages of support mean the world to us!
Prayers are coming...from me and my coworkers who I told about Lisa this morning. Sending hugs to you and Pete and the kids as well. :hug:
mommy2mrb
11-09-2011, 01:02 PM
Continued prayers.....and some from my mom too!
Colleen27
11-09-2011, 01:09 PM
:hug: :hug: :hug: You and Lisa will be in my thoughts today.
mommy2mrb
11-09-2011, 01:19 PM
just talked to Judy, her a Pete were having a bite of lunch, she will update us later when Lisa is done....they told her approximately 3 hours for the cath.
Told her how many people were sending their prayers and love and she is so appreciative for them all!
babynala
11-09-2011, 01:26 PM
:hug: and prayers for Lisa and your entire family. Judy - I hope you are able to get some rest.
Owensheart
11-09-2011, 01:30 PM
Praying for Lisa today!! Caths are always tough. Owen doesn't have any occlusions, but they always access from his neck and his groin. I know she has a long recovery today, but post an update when you can. Hoping for good news!!
marvali
11-09-2011, 01:50 PM
Lisa was just taken downstairs for her cath. Pete has gone to get us something from the cafeteria, I never leave the floor, something always happens if I do. She should be in the cath approximately 3 hours and then 6 hours in the Cardiac Recovery Unit. PLEASE keep the prayers coming. Your messages of support mean the world to us!
Was just thinking about you all and got on just in time to read this. Thoughts and prayers going up that everything will go smoothly for Lisa's procedure, the news will be good and you and Pete will be at peace during the wait!
cajunfan
11-09-2011, 01:57 PM
You all are in my thoughts and prayers today!:hug::grouphug:
reelmom
11-09-2011, 03:37 PM
I want you to know that I have gone boldly to the throne of our gracious God on behalf of Lisa. I will continue to lift Lisa, your family, and the doctors up in prayer. I pray for healing, strength, and a fast recovery.
elizabethswan
11-09-2011, 03:49 PM
thinking of you all. hope all is going well for lisa.:flower3:
p00h4me
11-09-2011, 04:34 PM
Continued prayers here!
WDWCP96
11-09-2011, 04:46 PM
Thinking of Lisa and praying the cath goes well.
Vivianne
11-09-2011, 04:59 PM
I was reading your daughter's life experience. You have a lovely family.
You reminded me of the challenge my niece has had to face all of her
life. Here is a newspaper account of her achievement despite all the
setbacks she's endured.
http://articles.courant.com/2006-05-27/news/0605270864_1_heart-surgeries-school-work-strokes
Hoping all goes well for Lisa and she gets most of her wishes in life fulfilled.
karebear23
11-09-2011, 05:44 PM
Thinking of you all! I hope everything is going well!
petals
11-09-2011, 05:45 PM
Sending prayers and pixie dust to Lisa:flower3:
miprender
11-09-2011, 05:55 PM
Lisa was just taken downstairs for her cath. Pete has gone to get us something from the cafeteria, I never leave the floor, something always happens if I do. She should be in the cath approximately 3 hours and then 6 hours in the Cardiac Recovery Unit. PLEASE keep the prayers coming. Your messages of support mean the world to us!
:grouphug: Sendng more prayers.
kimmg
11-09-2011, 06:56 PM
Was thinking about Lisa and am saying prayers!:hug:
MamaPotts
11-09-2011, 08:47 PM
Coming out of lurkdom... continued prayers for Lisa, you and your DH, your other children and the medical team overseeing Lisa's care.
mommy2mrb
11-09-2011, 09:25 PM
Update from Judy
Lisa is back in her room....the cath went well, they were able to get the pressures they needed!!!
she is quite tired, bruised and was sick a little bit ago due to the meds. The doctor's will be having a conference tomorrow at some point, Judy wasn't sure if they would get any definitive answers or not, might take a bit.
the next step will be for Lisa's coumadin levels to be theraputic before they will release her.....so to all who are praying for our sweet Lisa, this is our next prayer mission.
Judy and Pete are so thankful for all the prayers, thoughts and cards and humbly are asking for more prayer's.
They were going to get Lisa settled in for the night and hoping they all get a good night sleep. Judy will post tomorrow, but wanted me to post the update for you all tonight.
that's nice
11-09-2011, 09:30 PM
Update from Judy
Lisa is back in her room....the cath went well, they were able to get the pressures they needed!!!
she is quite tired, bruised and was sick a little bit ago due to the meds. The doctor's will be having a conference tomorrow at some point, Judy wasn't sure if they would get any definitive answers or not, might take a bit.
the next step will be for Lisa's coumadin levels to be theraputic before they will release her.....so to all who are praying for our sweet Lisa, this is our next prayer mission.
Judy and Pete are so thankful for all the prayers, thoughts and cards and humbly are asking for more prayer's.
They were going to get Lisa settled in for the night and hoping they all get a good night sleep. Judy will post tomorrow, but wanted me to post the update for you all tonight.
Thank you for the update... continued prayers for Lisa and the entire family. :grouphug: :hug: :grouphug:
xanphylus
11-09-2011, 09:45 PM
Glad to hear it all went ok. Well continue paying for the whole family. Hugs!!
KatMark
11-09-2011, 10:07 PM
Update from Judy
Lisa is back in her room....the cath went well, they were able to get the pressures they needed!!!
she is quite tired, bruised and was sick a little bit ago due to the meds. The doctor's will be having a conference tomorrow at some point, Judy wasn't sure if they would get any definitive answers or not, might take a bit.
the next step will be for Lisa's coumadin levels to be theraputic before they will release her.....so to all who are praying for our sweet Lisa, this is our next prayer mission.
Judy and Pete are so thankful for all the prayers, thoughts and cards and humbly are asking for more prayer's.
They were going to get Lisa settled in for the night and hoping they all get a good night sleep. Judy will post tomorrow, but wanted me to post the update for you all tonight.
Lisa, thanks so much for the update. Of course we will keep Lisa in our prayers.
kimmg
11-09-2011, 10:34 PM
Thank you so much for the update. I will continue to pray that you all get some rest, here coumadin levels are therapeutic and that she's released soon!:littleangel:
Emilyswish
11-09-2011, 11:27 PM
Hi Judy,
I just caught up on your TR, so wonderful so far!
I'm thinking of you all as you are at CHOP. I know, first hand, what good hands Lisa is in. HUGS!
sheridee32
11-09-2011, 11:32 PM
Steve and I are happy to hear things went well saying prayers for everyone
Ciciwoowoo
11-09-2011, 11:52 PM
Joining in...
Sending lots of prayers your way!!!
:grouphug:
kayrosek
11-10-2011, 12:08 AM
Glad to hear things have gone well so far. Thinking of you guys and sending continued prayers.
blessedmom4
11-10-2011, 01:30 AM
Lisa B, THANK YOU for updating for me, when I called you last night I was so weary, as you heard. Gail, Lisa was going to PM you for me., THANK YOU.THANK YOU for the e-cards to : Andrea, Alexa, Michelle, JJ, Mary, Lisa, Gail and Tiffy (Has everyone seen Gail’s new baby in the siggie?? SO adorable)! They were sitting on Lisa’s bedside table when we got back late last night and helped make her smile while we got her acclimated back to her room.
I have been hearing for three days how sweet kind and nice I am, they said it must be my Southern charm and manners. They found out last night at 8:30 that my easy going nature stops when you upset my child. They wanted to move us AGAIN to a room without a private bath on another part of the hall. I had already asked if we had to move to ICU at 7 PM, they had told us there was a possibility; however, then they told me NO, we were all set to return to Lisa’s room. We were supposed to move back from the recovery unit to our room at 9 and my teary Lisa kept asking how much longer. She got hysterical when she found out she had to move AGAIN. Frankly, so did I, though I didn’t show it in front of her. I went down and packed up EVERYTHING (and we have a lot here...) and I moved the first batch of our things over when I discovered our room had NO bath...at all! Lisa would have to go down the hall each and every time she needed to potty. UNACCEPTABLE! LOOONG story short, they decided to leave us here...I didn’t blow my top or yell or scream; however, they knew after the day I had, I was not playing around anymore. I did tell them I was ticked, and I know from the look on my face they got it. Because of the fiasco, LIsa didn’t get back to her bed until after 10 PM. One of the nurses tried to joke with me about how I was the most polite angry parent they had ever seen and I told her I could forget my manners very quickly and it wouldn't be pretty...more just happened in our room at 2 in the morning; however, I will not bore you.
As Lisa said, we are simply waiting to see if surgery is inevitable in the near future, or if we can wait for a while longer. I am claiming that we WILL be able to wait a bit longer, each and every day is a gift and a relief and makes Lisa one step closer to getting the adult valve she needs. Prayer is powerful!
VBAndrea
11-10-2011, 02:51 AM
:hug: Sorry for the ordeal with the room fiasco, but it's settled now and the most important thing is that Lisa made it through the cath just fine and the readings needed were obtained. You are in good hands with the medical team. While I know it would be wonderful to find out what needs to be done immediately, patience will provide the best answers. :hug:
Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.
elizabethswan
11-10-2011, 05:13 AM
so glad the cath went well, sorry for the ordeal, but thank goodness lisa has you to advocate for her with her care. a room with no bathroom??? ugh! you are a wonderful mom and i hope that you all get some rest. sending thoughts your way and hope lisa is doing well and that the news on the medical front is good. take care.:flower3:
lovethattink
11-10-2011, 05:19 AM
So glad the cath went well. Hoping you get back the results you are hoping for. Sorry about the room fiasco. I was wondering why you were posting after 2AM. So sorry to hear you had another room fiasco at 2am. I hope today is calm and peaceful. That Lisa recovers quickly and is comfortable today. And no room changes!
marvali
11-10-2011, 05:56 AM
Lisa - thanks for the earlier update. So glad the heart cath was successful with the pressures!
Judy - wow what a horrible ordeal with the room situation. Don't they realize you have ALL been through enough already outside of everything else Lisa is going through! Understandable to lose your cool!
Continuing to pray for all of you that your day is much better and the news from the doctors is fantastic for Lisa's future!
p00h4me
11-10-2011, 05:57 AM
Thank you Lisa and Judy for the update about Lisa's cath! Went to bed early last night so didn't read how the cath went until this morning! I'm glad that Lisa has been getting our e-cards. Hope she's enjoying the story about our hen, Nugget! I should finish it before Lisa has to check out of the hospital.
Wow, they wanted to move Lisa to another room!!!!? :confused3 I'm glad you put your foot down Judy and told them the new room with no bathroom was unacceptable. Body language sometimes speaks louder than words! :rotfl: Lisa couldn't have a better mom than you Judy to be her advocate!
We'll be praying about Lisa's coumadin levels so you can all be heading home soon and also about the result of the cath that Lisa's next surgery can still wait a little while longer!
blessedmom4
11-10-2011, 07:47 AM
All is well, Lisa has gone back to sleep, Pete is still at the RMH . They just did rounds. The plan is to look at the numbers and verify a few things...and work on getting Lisa's coumadin numbers up. They are playing chase with the heparin, first it is too high, then it is too low...I feel relaxed and calm...and clean, everyone was early rounding this morning, so happy I got up at 6 to get a shower. Lisa has a wicked bruise on the left side of her groin, it is sore and painful. Please pray it doesn't cause any problems.
lovethattink
11-10-2011, 08:10 AM
All is well, Lisa has gone back to sleep, Pete is still at the RMH . They just did rounds. The plan is to look at the numbers and verify a few things...and work on getting Lisa's coumadin numbers up. They are playing chase with the heparin, first it is too high, then it is too low...I feel relaxed and calm...and clean, everyone was early rounding this morning, so happy I got up at 6 to get a shower. Lisa has a wicked bruise on the left side of her groin, it is sore and painful. Please pray it doesn't cause any problems.
Glad you got a shower before rounds! I hope the blood thinners get all straighted out. Glad you are relaxed and calm. That stinks about her bruise. I will be praying for it and everything else concerning her.
WDWRids
11-10-2011, 08:36 AM
Catching up this morning - glad to hear the cath went well and pressures are good. Hope that bruise pain with ease off soon and give her some relief. Praying today goes smooth and all of you can get some peace and rest a bit. Please tell her she has lots of folks all around the world thinking and praying for a speedy recovery! Take Care
Owensheart
11-10-2011, 09:20 AM
Oh Mama bear comes out when they mess around with my kids' room and sleeping after a procedure. I'm glad you put your foot down... politely.. and kept her room. They have plenty of babies/toddlers they can put in a no bathroom room.. they don't use it anyway. I'm glad the cath was successful, but the bruising of the groin is always brutal. Hoping they get her levels where they need them so you can break out of there!!
KatMark
11-10-2011, 09:27 AM
Judy, I am so happy that you let them know that you were not happy about Lisa having to move to a room without a bath and have to do all of that walking after her procedure. Good for you!
Thinking of you and continuing all our prayers.
mommy2mrb
11-10-2011, 10:32 AM
Good Morning to our sweet Warrior mama!!! you keep on them Judy, don't let them do anything you know is not right for Lisa! You and Pete know what is the best for her....PERIOD!!!!
Hope Lisa is feeling better this morning and that her bruise won't give her any major issues! praying for her levels to be where they need to be so you all can get home!
Hope and praying the doctors will be able to go over all the info and give you the news you want to hear, no surgery in the near future!!!
:hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug:
janeapplemeadow
11-10-2011, 04:34 PM
Judy, I stummbled onto your trip report and read your pre-trip report. I am so taken by your story. I have cried and laughed. I hope your family will find the strength that God offers you. I know that your family will be in my prayers tonight. You are in a great hospital now. As a nurse, I know how hard they will work to get your daughter the best care they can. With God's grace, anything is possible.
reelmom
11-10-2011, 06:25 PM
Just wanted to let you know that I was thinking about Lisa. I hope she is recovering well.
vBulletin® v3.8.4, Copyright ©2000-2012, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.