My child is not turning one....she is actually 17.
One year ago yesterday, Katey had a freak accident while renovating her room that caused her to almost lose her right eye. This past year has been the true meaning of changing with your child. Many...many prayers...cards, letters, emails, posters, hugs, visits, dinners, cupcakes, tears and laughter with our friends have been the medicine that has pulled us through.
It's true what they say....in adversity, you find your true colors.....faith is tested....character is built. As parents we only want the best for our children. Any kind of sickness, pain or hurt in any way is not supposed to happen to them. Right? Children should not have to face such heavy issues at such a young age....the bad stuff should be for the adults...and the bad mean adults I might add. But never...ever our children.
One year ago...I walked into an emergency room...saw her face....and knew....this was going to be way bigger than anything I had ever dealt with. My immediate reaction was to sit with her...and pray. We prayed for God's strength, comfort and closeness...no matter what was coming. That day was the most difficult day of my life.
Since then, Katey has had four major surgeries. We see some kind of a doctor every other week and probably will regularly for the next year and most definitely the rest of her life. Through it all...I've only seen her break down twice....and both times were after anesthesia. I on the other hand...have cried myself to sleep many nights. She was out of school for eight weeks....her Junior year in high school. The year that all colleges look at grades. She's on a regimen of hourly eye drops....seven days a week. We have been physically rebuilding...emotionally learning....and becoming very educated about the physics of sight.
Today....she's a normal, functioning...miraculous teenager. She's gone back to work. She's driving. She's back hanging out with friends, shopping, going to movies, dating and arguing with me about when her curfew really is. She finished her year at school with excellent grades and is looking forward to her senior year in all the fun it provides.She does not have full sight recovery....probability won't...but we will always hold out hope for another miracle. Her attitude is literally "it's all good". Her life plan has changed. Since the accident she has become very interested in the science of the eye...and the patients that need great doctors. She'll head to college next year and wants to study Optometry. She has a story to tell and has taught me so much about courage and strength and looking for the good things in life. We've both learned....life is going to bring us heartache. Sometimes so painful it's hard to breathe. But through this entire year we were not, and are still not alone. God has given us the peace and comfort and closeness we prayed for.
So...Happy one year anniversary Katey. I'm so glad we are at this end of the year instead of the beginning.
Mom's of teenagers....stay tuned. More "changing with Katey" to come.
I have been following Katey's progress from afar and praying for her and your family. When a freak accident like this happens many things go with it. The family dynamics change drastically and can either strengthen or tear a family apart. Yours has impressed me so much, the support, love and caring and the strength have risen to the top. Katey is amazing and so is her Mom.
Happy one year anniversary Katey! So happy to hear how well she is doing Celia!!!! And I am excited for both of you as she embarks on her senior year and begins seeking out her college career. God is amazing, I've seen him work in many ways in my own life and it's so encourgaging to hear your story which is a testiment to God's love for us. Even on the darkest hour of the darkest day of our lives -- God is with us. Much love and happpiness to you and your family from ours. Thanks for opening your heart to share your story.
You are sweet! You understand....you've been in the same prayerful and thankful state I'm in. Love you Jeanette!
Thanks so much....and yes...you are sooooo right. I can't imagine life without knowing where to go for strength and comfort. :) HE provides that!
It is hard to believe that it has been one year! I'm sure not to you as you have been living minute to minute. God bless Katie for being such a strong and positive young lady during this. God bless you for being her wonderful cheerleader and seeing her through this challenging year. Congratulations on her progress. We'll keep the prayers coming.
May this next year be Katey's best. You have incredible faith and as you said, putting Katey's injury in God's hands was all you could do. I know we should put everything in His hands but instead I am always trying to take over. Bless you all this next year and always... what an incredible family you have. Your story makes us all better and reminds us to walk a little closer with God everyday. Love you.