2013 Heart Walks


Northern Ohio Congenital Heart Walk

September 7

The much anticipated UH Rainbows and Cleveland Clinic heart walk has come and gone. Too quickly. I sort of wished I could have put the day on pause. But then again I'm reminded that we should never look back and keep pushing ahead.  And, I have a pretty good suspicion that this will be our best year yet. With that being said I am truly thankful for the memories made and the people who made the day as special as ever for our Heart Warrior.  Not to mention those that donated to help others, such as Cal.

We raised 2,250.00!









(Our Cleveland Cardiologist)

(My Brother and 2nd opinion Doctor)

(Cal fell asleep just before the walk began. Daddy took the honors of carrying him)

(Surgeon)

 
Let The Walk Begin!









(The walk wouldn't be complete without some football along the way)


(There was nothing better then watching Brad carry Cal. He soaked up every second too.
And why wouldn't he?!)





After the mile walk, refreshments and entertainment began. Cal decided to wake up and grace us with his presence. He was a little confused why we weren't walking. He was READY!



(Our Heart Hero)


Today was a very special day for Brad and I. As we continue to struggle with Cal's CHD, we are reminded how precious life is. Not a day goes by that we don't focus our attention on what is most important in life. Too not sweat the small stuff. 
 One glance at Cal (and Liam) and all is right with the world.



 Thank you to all who made this day possible.





Appleton (Fox Cities) Heart Walk

September 14

We had a hard time deciding if we wanted to attend the local walk (put on by the American Heart Association) after just coming back from Ohio, sicknesses and all.  At the last minute, we registered, and joined the Mended Little Hearts team. There is something to say for being among other heart families and their warriors. I felt honored and seeing Cal with his heart buddies made every minute worth it.
 
 
 
(Don't they look thrilled?!)

(Superheroes)

(Heart Moms and our Survivors)






"It's not about your scars...
It's about your Heart."
                               -unknown


1 Year Heartiversary


A Day to Celebrate





(Our Gift to You)





Happy Heartiversary Cal!
 








 
 
 

 


  In it. Together.
 
 
 

"God gives his hardest battles to his strongest warriors."
                                              -unknown


Full Circle

In the weeks leading up to Cal's heart surgery, I viewed pictures of other babies, dealing with a similar situation, to help me cope with what was before us. On occasion I would find a picture of that same baby two years later: playing, energetic, healthy, full of life, with not a care in the world.  I would always pause at those pictures and stare, mostly wonder. It gave me hope. More importantly, it gave me reassurance. And now, 10 months later, I view another child. Filled with joy, laughter, and happiness...


 
(16 months)
 
 
 
 
 
"I've seen miracles happen.  Silent prayers get answered.
Broken hearts become brand new.  That's what faith can do."
                                                     -unknown

6 Months Post Surgery

Doing Fabulous!






"Be strong when you are weak, brave when you are scared, and HUMBLE WHEN YOU ARE VICTORIOUS."
                                                                  -unknown