This is the amazing journey of our two miracles. John Craig was born on November 30, 2005 at 24 weeks and 5 days gestation. He weighed 1 pound 8 ounces and was 12 inches long. John is a true miracle and an inspiration to all that meet him! Hope Amanda, our perfect little girl, is currently recovering from two brain surgeries to remove a 6cm mass from the center of her brain. Hope represents everything good in this world and she too is an inspiration to all.
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.
Jeremiah 29.11

Sunday, April 06, 2008

Quick Update.....

...on my FAVORITE baby boy!
  • Music class was sooooooo much fun. He was a little nervous at first...not quite sure what to think. It didn't take him long to warm up though. He even went with all the kids to put his instruments away.....he pushed his tambourine all the way to the basket in the middle of the room and then picked it up and put it in. I am one proud Momma!

  • Neurology wasn't too bad (besides the long wait.) Dr. T said he looks great and is very excited that I am taking him for a Botox evaluation. She thinks he is a perfect candidate! We were also given the official diagnosis of CP. No biggie though...it really means nothing to us. We knew it was coming and thankfully weren't taken by surprise. It is what it is....and it definitely doesn't define him. Like we've said from day 1...HIS DIAGNOSIS MEANS NOTHING TO US! God gave us John for a reason and we couldn't be more thankful for that!

  • Our long awaited Botox appointment is tomorrow at 3:15. We are really curious to see what the Dr. says/thinks. I'll definitely update tomorrow night.

  • John went to his first Suns game today. Thanks Renneckars!!!! We had a great time but it was a little to loud for him.

  • Ohhhhhhh and I forgot to mention....I got the job!!!!!!!!! My new title is, NICU family support specialist. I seriously don't think there could be a more PERFECT job for me. I am soooooooo excited and can't wait to get started. My first day is April 21st....however, I'll be juggling 2 jobs for about 5 weeks (until the school year is over.)

I'll leave you with some weekend photos...

Playing in his bus!

Thinking that his Mommy has lost her mind!

Getting the tickle torture....and Grandpa wonders why John throws up!!!!


Waiting patiently for his tub to fill up.

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6 comments:

Sarah Furlough said...

Jill:

First things first, CONGRATS on the new job! I am so happy for you, the job sounds tailor-made for you! You have such a great insight that will allow you to better relate to the families you will be helping.

On the CP diagnosis, you are right- it DOES NOT define John. He is such a miracle in so many ways, clearly God chose you as his parents for a reason. What an incredible blessing he is. I'm so glad you guys can celebrate all of his accomplishments- big and small!!

As usual, John is one of the happiest little guys I've ever seen. Too bad we don't live closer, he and Cooper could get into some serious trouble together!

Trisha said...

You're right, the CP diagnosis does not and will not define who John is. He's doing amazing and making progress at his own pace. He's such a little cutie! Congrats on your new job! Those parents are so lucky that the NICU hired you!

Sheri said...

What a great new job!!! They are LUCKY to have you..... You have such a great attitude and outlook!! Its really is impressive and inspiring....( I am sure you have your moments like anyone, BUT.....Seriously thanks for a great example!)John is adorable as always!

Nicole said...

I am looking forward to trying to meet you at the MOD walk! I would love to get involved if you need volunteers for the NICU support group, there wasn't one when Dane was at PCH and I have a passion, like many of us NICU Mama's do, to support other parents.
John is too cute, and your attitude is awesome. It's God's story to unfold...God has blessed us with the pleasure of getting to share in these little miraclesd!

We need to go see DR. T for a follow up, I was waiting for RSV season to be over...I know she wants us to have an MRI done, but we feel "ify" on it. Like you said, the results of the brain damage DO NOT CHANGE ANYTHING!!!

Katie and Matt said...

Congrats on the job Dudecoff! There is no one better for that job than you. I am constantly reminded of how Blessed I am to get to share a friendship with you and am thrilled that others will be touched by your love and support and positive attitude.

Love you.
dudie

Kellars Mommy said...

Congrats on the job!!! I agree with you 100%, John is who he is and no diagnosis will ever change that, he is exactly who God intended him to be, I think you are an amazing mom and John is a very lucky lil fella to have such wonderful parents..