Today Ben celebrated his 15 years of life! It was like one day-long party. He woke up to a card from the night nurses, then was serenaded by the day crew and volunteers (see picture and post below), then had a visit that included a BIG balloon and cake with our friend Chris, a shower, and then a concert with the Chicago area band The Ginge (that included photo ops and autographs!). Insert a bunch of phone calls from family and friends, and it was one gloriously full day.
The only down side to Ben's day would have been that dad had to leave a while for a meeting in Elgin, mom had to work and has a cold that kept her away, and Noah and Lydia had school so didn't get to come in either. But we'll all celebrate when Ben finally gets home again.
So, getting home.... On the medical front they are still trying to get his heparin level up to where they want it, and at the same time are starting to switch him over to coumadin. It mostly means a slow, careful process of i.v. fluids, blood checks, and pills. Word on the street (or at least on five west) is that we're here through the weekend.
We'll stay as long as they insist; just don't make us come back again!
As I've said before, we are just really thankful that Ben is even around for his 15th birthday. God's given us a precious gift that takes some tending, but the smiles and joy are worth the effort! We lift a prayer of gratitude in harmony with our continued prayers for healing.
Happy Birthday, Ben!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BEN!!!!
ReplyDeleteTo one of the bravest young men we know. Wish we were closer to give you more support. Keep hanging in there on the strength of God's LOVE.
There are brighter days ahead.
The Ebersole's
Sorry about making this anonymous, but I'm not up on the latest computerese and I don't know how these profile's work.
ReplyDeleteDave Ebersole
Dearest Ben, Jon, Kim, Noah and Lydia,
ReplyDeleteWhen G"ma Shively called yesterday, I had not been at the computer for a couple days! We were so sorry to hear of the return to the hospital. But we are deeply thankful that you, Ben, are getting the care you need. We are also grateful that through this medium, we can be a part of your tremendous support group - not just for you, but for the whole family. Thanks for the updates. I will try to check each day as I had been doing before you went home last week.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BEN!!! We can hardly wait until you are well enough to come to Lancaster so we can see you! It would be a real treat to hear you play your drums!
Love to all, Joyce and Rich Bohn