When we were expecting Marshall, no one properly warned nor prepared us for this experience. Granted they could not predict how things would be.  Nor could they offer any believable wisdom.

It is one of those things you just have to go through. 

So with each new nurse we meet, I offer my thanks.  I have one of these babies.  Not hundreds.

And frankly, I just don’t know how they do this.

Especially on days like today.

Marshall kept me too busy for Facebook last night so I couldn’t “stalk” Noah, a little boy with similar anatomy whose struggle is tragically inspiring or inspiringly tragic. 

Either way Noah is an incredibly remarkable, shining example of true strength to someone like me.

And his mama, my god… his mama, is an epic hero with super strength.

I haven’t met either of them but I am sending massive love and support straight down these halls into 8 South.

You see, I found Noah’s Hope For Heterotaxy page on Facebook when I was late in the pregnancy for Marshall.  When I needed hope, his mama’s updates keep me hopeful.  He beat the odds farther than most kids with heterotaxy.  His story is pure inspiration.  

And I sought updates on his behalf more than regularly.  I was borderline obsessive and spent much of my time checking on him, cheering him on, and sending good thoughts.

Because of recent events with Marshall, I didn’t have time to check up on Noah last night.

So this morning as I held a sleeping Marshall, one handedly ate breakfast, and scrolled Facebook, I sobbed.

Noah was placed on ECMO last night.

And it is taking everything I have to write this post.

Please send Noah, his mama, his big sister, his family, his friends, and his team every positive, supportive, powerful thought or prayer you can. 

Please. 

Please.

Please.

There is no shortage of heart ache, heart break, and immense sadness in this place.  Not just for our own little miracle but for all of these babies, kids, & even adults. Don’t get me wrong, there is happiness too. And my is it great.

But none of this sadness nor happiness is as great as hope.

Hope for Noah, Marshall, and all of these kids…please.