Monday, March 21, 2011

3/21/11: 2:23 p.m.

Did I say tough? I should have said tough. Just talked to the surgeon, who appears reserved (as usual) but pleased. Surgery is complete and went well enough that he went ahead and closed the chest cavity, which we definitely did not expect. Now...that could change of course, and there are obviously lots of obstacles that could potentially occur, but we are guardedly optimistic. If it were Kristin writing, she'd have a nice metaphor about us taking a deep, collective breath. Me? Until we have a chance to write a more substantial entry, I'll just leave it at this. He's tougher than I, a fact for which I am very thankful.

Much love and thanks to every person who has taken an interest in us and in Samuel; it has palliated our anxiety in ways you may not be able to imagine.

We are especially grateful to hear from other cardiac kids and their families. Such kind and encouraging words. If we may be so bold, we will continue to draw strength from you and your support.

28 comments:

  1. I feel like a weight lifted as I learned he made it out. I have goose bumps and just had a huge sigh...you are stronger than you think.

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  2. I think everyone was holding their breath here at school today. I'm glad he's out of surgery and that so far things have gone well. Here's hoping for a complication-free 24 hours post surgery.

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  3. So happy. So proud of you two: such wonderful parents. Will continue to keep you in our thoughts!

    -Nate

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  4. joanne (the jewish mothah)March 21, 2011 at 2:01 PM

    i am in AWE of you, kristin and of course, sam. in AWE. sending all my love your way!

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  5. So happy to hear this update, keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. much strength and love to you all!

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  6. I'm so happy to hear your good news! I will continue my prayers for his recovery and for your strength!

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  7. we are all letting out a small sigh of relief here...we will continue praying though that Sam/Wolf continues on the positive path...btw it was cute hearing Kristin refer to herself as mommy :)

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  8. Way to go Wolfie. What a big mountain you just climbed. Keep fighting hard little man. We want to see you running down the other side...

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  9. Whew. Can't wait to see another picture of that dear, brave boy.

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  10. Jason and Kristin, you must be totally exhausted! I've been a nervous nanny all day and have actually been cleaning the house to calm myself down (that in itself is a miracle). But every hour, on the hour I have said Samuel's name: "God heard." I think He did, and you have just passed a major milestone. Samuel, you are indeed one tough little man!

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  11. I am so glad to hear this good news. Praying that little Samuel stays strong!

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  12. Pheww! How wonderful to hear the surgery went as well as could be expected.
    Now praying for his recovery and for you all to keep courage.

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  13. Big sigh of relief that this step is behind you. Keep sending photos - he is ridiculously cute!

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  14. We're all rooting for Sam! Btw, Susan's phone has been ringing at least every half hour with calls from Columbus folk (per Susan, "those old people don't know how to blog.").

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  15. I could blame it on the hormones, but I think it's simply that I'm so thankful to hear of this leap. I started crying at KK's blog about Samuel's breathing trouble and continued through Marlys' funny post about spring cleaning. We will continue to put our faith in the One who provides all life. May you two rest a little more and text me when you're ready for some food. :) May Wolfie's night be restful and totally uneventful.

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  16. As one of Stephanie's friends, my breath is literally taken away by your journey. Sam is one inspirational little spirit! So many are sending you strength for the day, hope for the moment, energy for the battle, courage for the duration. I don't know if you'd have any interest, but if no one has otherwise offered, and if you would find it amenable, I would be humbled and honored to come take some photos of Sam for you when I'm in Denver 4/2. Stephanie has my number, if you'd like me to stop by for a time. Hugs, and keep on with the positive thoughts! I believe they do make an impact! Angie T.

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  17. A good, long day of prayer. Talked to Jeff this afternoon and it sounds as though eveything went as well as can be expected. Hugs to everyone around. I'm so glad you have made it through this hurdle. Hang in there.

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  18. I am so used to crying when reading your emails, Kris (from laughter), but now I am crying when reading these posts (from seeing such beauty and strength in all three of you). Max and I made up a prayer for Sam. Transliterated it goes like this: Baruch atah Adonai elohainu l'hadliknair shel Sam. We have decided it means this: Blessed are you G-d, light of Sam. We know Sam has this amazing light inside of him, that he gets from you guys, that will keep shining and help him recover quickly and easily. You guys are amazing. Love you, julie, joe, & max

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  19. So, as I was reading the blog, a song came up on my iTunes playlist, "Fearless Heart." Think that is a spot on description of all of you. So wonderful to hear the surgery went well. Will look forward to more updates. I hope you can both get at least a bit of sleep tonight. Prayers will continue.

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  20. My family and I are glad to hear that everything went better than expected today. We shall keep you both and little Samuel in our thoughts.

    Mikayla

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  21. So glad the surgery went well! I've been thinking about you all day and hoping for a positive report!

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  22. Goodness, this new little Leclaire is as tough as the two of you. Strength comes when you least expect it. What a blessing to hear the surgery went well and that the two of you are feeling calmed a bit yourselves. I cannot imagine the stress, but know the bond will be absolutely unbreakable. With love to you all! --Michele, Jeremy, Carter & Greta

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  23. Hey guys, hanging on every post. Just remember where Wolfie gets his toughness from--you two! Hopes & prayers....

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  24. Hello Leclaire family! I have been thinking of you all weekend...I was w/o internet for a day or two and I logged on this morning as soon it was back up and running. I am so glad to hear that the surgery went well. You are all so strong...wow...you are amazing.

    I was talking to my mom on Sunday and we got talking about babies, people in my hometown, etc...and we put 2 and 2 together to lead me to you and Samuel. A guy I grew up with who lived across the street (and whose mom still does) had a baby a few years ago and you'll never guess...his son has the same heart condition as Samuel. I couldn't believe it. A success story he is...he is having his third surgery in the next few months and he is a perfectly healthy happy kid! Samuel has a bright, promising and happy future ahead of him!

    Much love,
    Jessica

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  25. Huzzah!! Wonderful news! And such good updates. :) :)

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  26. Kristen,
    What a challenge you and your family are enduring but what a joy it will be in the end. Know that you and little Samuel are in my thoughts. Looking forward to another blog entry today with updates on his post-op condition.
    Sending you all love,
    Leslie Fichera

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  27. Hey Leclaires- Thank you for keeping us all updated! I am thinking of you guys, and keeping you in my thoughts and prayers daily! Love, Carrie

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