Home (At Last)

Caleb was finally discharged from the hospital around May 2009. Our lives changed instantaneously! It was nothing I imagined. I thought I was going to have a baby, stay in the hospital for two nights, go home, and be a mother. My expectations were so wrong. Instead, our home resembled his hospital room and our schedule revolved around his (medical) needs.

We had follow-up appointments with his specialists on a regular basis, procedures such as EKG's, Modified Barium Swallows, scans/x-rays, trach clinic, and his regular pediatric/wellness/immunizations.  In addition, Caleb had speech, occupational, and physical therapy appointments at home and several case workers who visited regularly.

Thank God we had assistance in the form of home health care providing Caleb almost 24/7 care.  We were able to work because of them.

DAILY LIFE

Despite the challenges, we still maintained a normal life.  Sure it was difficult for the most part, but we adjusted eventually.  Caleb's machines with includes a humidifier, suction, oxygen, feeding pump, oxymeter, and nebulizer became a necessary part of our lives. 

Even with all his medical equipments, ambu-bag, go-bag, diaper bag, medical folder, formula and medicines, we were mobile.  We took everything with us everywhere we went; whether it be at the church, mall, restaurants, a friend's house, or doctor's visits/procedures.  We even made it via a commercial flight to Las Vegas, NV in November 2009 to visit family and friends.

Caleb in Las Vegas November 2009

Our schedule was structured around Caleb:  his appointments, his scheduled activities, his medicine.  Even our work schedules revolved around his needs.  For example, if we didn't have a nurse, my husband and I would take turns sleeping or we would take turns calling in at work so someone's with Caleb at all time.  We were unable to have other people watch him who were not medically trained, for obvious reasons.  Simply put, we were hyper-vigilant and always careful, prioritizing his safety.

It's a blessing from God that our tribulation strengthened our relationship.  We had heard of incidences where couples separated due to the stress of having a special needs child.  I'm blessed I have a supportive husband.  He is my rock.  Through it all, our faith and relationship with the Lord grew deeper.

My husband Paul, Christmas 2009