Update on Mary Clare, the heart baby…
It seems forever that I’ve had news to post regarding Mary Clare as a heart patient. Since our clinic visits were bumped up to every three months, I’ve had mixed emotions. I’m thrilled that Mary Clare has not had chest x-rays, blood draws, echos, long clinic visit days to Charleston etc,etc, but it can be a bit unnerving without those reassurances to tell us without a doubt that everything is A-okay. She seems to be doing exceptionally well and our next clinic visit is in May. She is still on Enalipril, a blood pressure medicine and her daily asprin.
It has been simply wonderful to be able to post about our daily lives and Mary Clare’s milestones without having to report on her health. I almost feel like a “normal mom” for the first time since I found out I would be becoming a “heart mom.” At the same time, however, I feel a bit guilty because her heart condition isn’t on the forefront of my mind 24-7. I certainly worry about her daily, as does any mom with her children. Some moms worry most about nutrition, some about tall stairs, asthma, learning disabilities, etc. I just happen to worry most about Mary Clare’s heart. It doesn’t make my worry any more difficult or worse, just a bit different from most moms.
When she cries too hard, I feel her chest for quick tiny heart beats. I’m not sure why, I don’t really know what her normal heart beat should feel like. When she is sleeping, I creep into her bedroom, lower the crib rail and position myself so that I’m almost lying beside her so that I can smell her sweet, precious breath. When we are all laughing, playing, caught up in the middle of toddler/ baby chaos I quickly thank God for each and every moment I have with both of my girls, the good, the bad and the ugly!! Our family isn’t really that different from anyone else’s, and for that bit of normalcy, I am so truly, truly thankful.
5 Comments
Betsy on April 2nd, 2008
Before MC was born, I remember worrying about how this would change your life. But not only has MC done great with everything, you, Mel, and Mac have been exceptional! I certainly understand your constant worry and think it takes very special parents to “go on living life” after such a traumatic beginning. I am so thankful she is doing well and I love reading about your daily adventures and milestones!
kate (favorite aunt) on April 2nd, 2008
Mary Clare – you are such a wonderful person and mean so much to so many!! You will never know how much happier you and McCanless have both made me!! I love you both with all my heart and will do anything for you both, just ask!! (or call & I’ll be on my way) I love you girls!
and Kerri… you are what I hope to be when I become a mom (YEARS from now)!!
I remember when you called me the day you got home from the Doctor – after finding out about Mary Clare and her “sweet little heart”. You were upset but you were also brave and you have been since she was born!!
I remember worrying about when I should go to your house because I had McCanless… I knew you were upset/shocked/worried and needed sometime for yourself…
But.. When we got there you did what you knew you had to do.. “go on living” – (as Betsy mentioned) McCanless still needed you too & I remember watching you held McCanless and begin to tell her about her new little sister – as she listened with all the excitement in the world! I will never forget this..
You’re a Mom and a great one, to two wonderful girls that I love with all my heart! I can’t even begin to imagine my life without them and for that I am very thankful of you & Mel both!! I’m always here for you whenever you need me – I love you Kerri!
Nonnie on April 2nd, 2008
Hey My Love, I can’t begin to tell you how proud I am of you as a person and mom! When you were a little girl you would “Mother” your little sisters and brother; I knew just how remarkable you were then. You just took charge!
You and your family has made such an impact on everyone even people just knowing your name. God knew what He was doing when He gave you Mary Clare. And McCanless! Mel is just as wonderful, too!
I am truly blessed to have you, Mel, McCanless, Mary Clare,Kacy, Kate, Alston and of course, Tommy. It just can’t get any better (until I get more sons,a daughter and GRAND children.
I love you so much,
Mom
Amy Wallace on April 7th, 2008
God is so good. Kerri I commend you on being such an awesome Mom…you have provided the means to help your sweet angel overcome something we will never understand. God chose you because he knew you could handle it. Continue to trust him and let him lead you because he is the ultimate physician…seek him Kerri and he will give you the answers in between your visits. You know your baby girl and what is typical and what is not so go on those instincts!
Erica May on April 2nd, 2008
Hi Kerri! I am crying after I read that! Not sad tears, but happy tears for the joy you have with Mary Clare and also, because I know exactly how you feel! I am so glad God has placed us into each others lives! I can’t wait to do some fun stuff together outside of MUSC!!!
Much love,
Erica May