It’s Heather..
May 31, 2008
We recieved a call from Emma’s school yesterday around noon. Her teacher said that she was “sittiing at her desk, non engaged, and her lips were blue”. I called Mark, called my parents to watch the kids, and went to pick her and Mark up. When we arrived at All Childrens in St. Pete, they did an Echocardiogram, which I can read. I asked the tech if what she was looking at was fluid around her heart, and she said that she couldnt tell me yes or no, but that was a “good educated guess”. I knew right then that there was something seriously wrong. When she left the room, she said that she couldnt tell us what she saw, but that she wouuld be calling the transplant team as soon as she left our room.
Emma had an x-ray, which the ER doctor said “Showed failure, compared to the last one on file”. Then the cardiologist came in and explained that Emma was indeed in heart failure, that they didnt know what caused it all of the sudden (she had a great report, one of her best, in Gainseville 2 weeks ago). His first impression is that she has a virus that is attacking her body (her liver is quite enlarged too). She has plueral effusion and fluid around her heart. They have her in IV steroids and will continue to do that until her echo’s are clear. They are starting her on Milrinone, which will help her heart pump better. She has to be slowly weaned off of this drug, and can’t leave the ICU on it. He asked our permission to start her on IVIG Therapy, which is an immunomodulator in that it balances the immune system, strengthening immune systems that are too weak and reducing activity in overactive immune systems. They are also doing viral cultures on her blood so that, if it is a virus, we can properly treat it before it causes the heart too much damage. My biggest fear whenever we go into the hospital is that she wont come out, or that her heart is so damaged that she requires another transplant. If that were to be the case, we would Bayflight her to Gainesville immediately, according to her Transplant Cardiologist up there. Luckily we arent quite there yet.
We are staying at the Ronald McDonald house, as we don’t know how long she will be in CV-ICU.
I don’t have it in me to type out requests, so please forgive me. Just pray for her, that the Lord would protect this heart and that we would make the right decisions regarding her care. We would prefer to be in Gainesville at Shands, but her transplant doctor up there doesnt think she is stable enough to handle the transport. I asked the Cardiologist here “On a scale from 1-10, how bad is she”. His answer was 7-8.
“For in the day of trouble He will hide me in His shelter; in the secret place of His tent He will hide me; He will set me high upon a rock.” -Psalm 27:5
Thanks for your prayers and support, they really mean so much to us.
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Comments
Note From Heather: All comments are welcome, but I reserve the right to delete at any time. All comments are solely the opinions of the individuals submitting them and the publication of them on this blog does not imply my endorsement or agreement. By posting your comments to the blog you are granting me the right to use them. Your submission of a comment constitutes your acceptance of this comment policy.
In other words: Play Nice
136 Responses to “It’s Heather..”
I would love to hear from you!
Praying for you and your family right now - I’ll continue to hold little Emma up in prayer…
Paullas last blog post..Gas Price Perspective
PRAYING
oh, Heather! Praying!
weavermoms last blog post..Remembering
Oh Heather! Sending many, many prayers for little Emma!
Lisas last blog post..The Aftermath
Heather, I don’t comment very often, but I do follow your story regularly and pray for you frequently.
Your little girl is in my prayers. As are you and your husband. I ask that God will bring you great blessing during this time.
Rebeckas last blog post..Broken People
We are praying, Heather, in Columbus, Ohio.
I am so sorry! I will be praying.
Ps. 37:39: But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble.
Barbara H.s last blog post..Book Review: How To Say No to a Stubborn Habit
Oh Heather, I am praying for precious Emma. I am lifting her up to her Heavenly Father who loves her even more than we could ever begin to imagine. I am lifting you up too, can’t imagine how you must be feeling. (((((Heather)))))
Love, Shelley
Shelleys last blog post..Compassion
Prayers from North Carolina. Hugs Heather
Rachels last blog post..jumperoo for big kids
Keeping you all in my prayers!
Hear my cry, O God;
Give heed to my prayer.
From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint;
Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
For You have been a refuge for me,
A tower of strength against the enemy.
Let me dwell in Your tent forever;
Let me take refuge in the shelter of Your wings. Selah.
Psalm 61:1-4
Sweetest of all Heathers,
Lynchburg VA is praying- one representative anyway.
Loving you and your precious family.
Karen
I’m praying right now. Be strong. Peace be with you all.
missys last blog post..Wanna hear me ramble about my day?
I’ll be praying for you and your family. And praying that Emma responds to treatment and that she’s as comfortable as possible. I’m sure it’s tough, but I hope you’re getting some rest.
Sallys last blog post..
You don’t know me or my family, but I will be praying for your daughter! hang in there! God will only give you what you can handle, and you can handle this!
sarah olsons last blog post..potty training
We are praying here too.
Marias last blog post..Daybook
Praying!
Careys last blog post..
Heather - God is holding you all in HIS hands. I will pray without ceasing….
Marys last blog post..Green Lush Trees…..
Heather - I am praying for protection for sweet Emma and for healing and for wisdom as you made decisions about her care. I am also praying for a supernatural sense of calm and peace during this storm - that you would sense God’s mighty presence in a fresh new way as you cry out to Him for strength today.
HE loves Emma more than you do, HE loves Emma more than you do, HE loves Emma more than you do….she is in His hand, SEALED against everything that HE does not allow to reach her….HE will only do the best for her (and you).
……praying that His peace floods over you,
Diana in Illinois
I wish I was there to give you a big hug Heather! You and your family are in my prayers!!!
Heather,
I read your blog every day although I rarely comment. I am shocked and saddened to read this latest post. I am so sorry. Please know that I am also praying for your sweet daughter, as well as the rest of your family.
Heather and family,
You are in our prayers today. May our Lord grant you peace and good health and May the Blessed Mother comfort you as you go about the work of mothering your daughter.
God Bless!
We are praying for Emma, you, your family, and everyone on her medical team. Share your burden with Him.
Heather,
I am praying for all of you.
Heather, I will be praying for Emma and your family.
Praying and trusting in God’s care for you and your family.
(((hugs))) Heather-
We are all praying for you and for sweet little Emma Grace. When you don’t know what to do just put your trust in the Lord, he is your strength and he is there with you and Mark and your family. We will be praying through the day for all of you. Keep us posted.
Praying here in Canada.
we are praying here in Tampa
Tropical Mexicans last blog post..Graduation Video
Lifting up your sweet little girl in prayer today, as well as the rest of the family.
Praying here in NY!
Praying in Winter Haven, FL for your daughter.
“They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength…”
Praying for you and precious Emma! May God be Jehova Rapha in her little body and may He grace you with strength and peace like only He can.
Tammys last blog post..We Took a Break
Dearest Heather,
Praying that our loving Father will hide you in the shelter of His wings…guide you with His wisdom and calm you with His comfort. The Lord bless you and keep you, may His face shine upon you and give you peace.
Love and prayers for you all…
Karis last blog post..So much to say…so little time
Praying for Emma and her heart right now, Heather.
Kim Priestaps last blog post..Stefanie’s Custom Cards
We are praying for sweet precious Emma and for you and Mark as well. And we are praying for all the medical staff making those important decisions that they will be making in her care. We love you!
Praying for you, the specialists, nursing staff in this difficult time of the unknown.
You were on my mind early this Saturday morning. Now I know why!
Much love,
k-
kates last blog post..Good, good, not good
He will cover you with his feathers,
and under his wings you will find refuge;
his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
You will not fear the terror of night,
nor the arrow that flies by day,
nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,
nor the plague that destroys at midday.
Psalm 91:4- 6
Wanted to encourage you and Mark with scripture!
k-
kates last blog post..Good, good, not good
Praying for Emma and you all right now!
I am praying hard for your family. God will keep you strong. Emma is a fighter. I am also praying for all the staff that they can help her. Stay strong in the Lord.
Much love,
Barb
Barbs last blog post..Great Reads for the Francophile
You are in our prayers~
Stephanie
Stephanies last blog post..Sometimes It’s Cheaper Without Insurance
I am praying here, also. Healing for Emma-Wisdom for the phyisicans-Strength and Peace for the whole family.
mamajulianas last blog post..Of Baking Bread and Cookies…Wonder-Mum strikes again!
Oh Heather and Family in prayer for you!
Hopes last blog post..Remembering My Brother Who Was Killed
praying
Many, many prayers.
I am praying for your little Emma, as well as your family!!!
Oh Heather!!!!! LOTS AND LOTS OF PRAYERS for you, your family, and especially little Emma!
*HUGS* from Minnesota!
You are all in my prayers.
JoAnn
JoAnns last blog post..Thursday’s Ramblings
I do not understand His mysterious ways.
I do not understand His plans or the paths we must walk.
Yet I do trust Him, I trust He is Emmanael, there with you.
I am praying. I will continue to pray.
May you feel the comfort of being surrounded by prayers.
May you feel the peace that passes understanding.
PRAYING! God give you and your family comfort, strength, and peace! God be with Emma - strength and encouragement through this!
Oh, Heather!!! I will be praying for sweet little Emma. What a shock coming so soon after her great check-up. I’ll be praying for healing and and strength for Emma and for wisdom for the doctors.
Big hugs to all of you!!!
Lori ~ Simple Life at Homes last blog post..A Sad and Heavy Heart
Many hugs and prayers being sent your way. Thanks for letting us know and keep us posted when you’re able.
Hugs,
Amanda
Amandas last blog post..Subway’s response to homeschoolers
Praying, Heather.
Lindss last blog post..More lazy days
Praying Heather, for your sweet little girl. Oh God, heal her heart, her body and lift up those who love her… strengthen them, encourage them, make them wise in all the things that matter.
Tammys last blog post..They offered…
Praying for your dear, sweet little Emma and you all, Heather~
Cathys last blog post..Scripture to Share
I’m praying for little Emma and for your whole family.
Stacys last blog post..For a good laugh
I am so sorry this has happened and will be praying for your whole family. May The Great Comforter be with you and guide you through this time.
Emma and you all are in my thoughts and prayers.
YellowRoses last blog post..Photo Hunt - “Self: My Hand and More!”
Oh, Heather…immediate prayers for Emma and your family, for the doctors, for you. Placing all of you in God’s hands…
as always, praying.
karla ~ looking towards heavens last blog post..Fightin’ the frump on this fine Memorial Day
Oh, Heather, will be praying for Emma right now. Praying for strength for Emma and a healing! Our God is a gracious God and He is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think. Will be praying for His mighty hand to touch Emma and bring healing to her heart and body. Also keeping you and your family in prayer.
HE is our Jehovah Rapha - the Lord that healeth thee!
Heather, please know that there are many prayers being lifted up for Emma. My thoughts and prayers are with both Emma and your dear family as you go through the hours and days ahead.
Praying hard for Emma, for you, and for all of your family.
catnips last blog post..this is the time sucker
Praying for God’s healing hand…
Sweet Heather,
Praying for Emma and for all of you at this moment, asking the Lord to meet each and every need right now. He loves you, He loves your family and He loves Emma so much. Prayers will continue to lift you up to He who knows all.
Love and Hugs, Laurie in Ca.
Prayers from Vermont, especially for you to get the very best medical staff for Emma at this time.
Lizs last blog post..The Next Stage of Mothering
PRAYING, PRAYING, PRAYING.
Ds last blog post..Now, For how I got so *pretty*
Aloha from Oahu, Hawaii. Praying for you now. “Be strong and courageous.” -Joshua 1:9
PRAY EVERYONE PRAY! I’m praying Heather
and I hope you don’t mind but I posted an URGENT Prayer post on mine!
Emma…Heather…Mark…may the Heavenly Father see you through this with much love and grace! May His Holy Spirit strengthen and bring you His comfort and peace and wisdom as you continue to make life decisions! May His Son Jesus heal you Emma and bring this precious heart complete protection and strength. May the medical personnel do all they can to be the Hands of God to you all in their decisions, precision, words of
kindness and encouragement…May God hold you all in the palm of His Hands, hide you in His mighty shelter of grace and set your feet on the ROCK! Stand strong! Hold on! May each and every promise in His Word deliver you from all harm and bring you His everlasting peace, strength and love to press on! In His Name…Amen….I’m so sorry…I pray that all the saints will gather around and storm the gates for YOU all! We are the body
Peggy@Mazes, Messes, & Miracles….s last blog post..URGENT PRAYER REQUEST-Emma Grace
Uplifting Emma, you & Mark and the rest of the family in prayer.
Hugs & Prayers,
Norma
Praying for strength for all of you and that you feel His arms around you to strengthen and comfort.
Heather I’ve been following your blog for awhile and you have been such an inspiration to me in my own journey with my health issues and as a parent of two children on the autism spectrum. My heart goes out to you and I am praying for Emma Grace!!!
Rebeccas last blog post..Sweet 16
your courage, faith and grace are extraordinary. i will spend the day with you and your family at the center of my heart.
I wish you every good thing,
jasai
jasais last blog post..What’s in a (nick)name?
Praying for you and your family here in Cincinnati, Heather!
Your family is in my prayers!
annies last blog post..cafe chat
Stand Tall sweet Heather.
Hugs and prayers
Martha.. Ala. Grandmother
praying for Emma, for her family and her doctors
God Bless
Praying for your precious family.
Sarahs last blog post..6 Totally Useless Facts about me
Oh dear one…..I’m sorry you’re in this valley right now. I will absolutely add Emma to my prayer list, as well as continue to pray for the rest of you. {{hugs}}
I a m praying for Emma and all of you - praying really hard.
much love xx
Praying.
Staceys last blog post..Wow.
Oh Heather…
Lord, I lift up this precious family to you now. I cry out on behalf of little Emma. Father protect and watch over this little girl of yours. I pray that you would give her doctors wisdom as they care for her. I pray that any damage that has been done to her heart can be completely reversed. Place ministering angels all around her. I speak LIFE, and LIFE in abundance to this child.
Comfort Heather and her family as they wait upon you in this hour. Surround her with your supernatural peace and the love of all her friends. Place a wall of prayer around little Emma, in Jesus’ name I pray, Amen…
Praying without ceasing
Susans last blog post..Poured Out For Him
Praying for your family, sweet Heather!!!
Kaylas last blog post..Tagged
Heather, I’m praying for Emma, for the doctors to make the right choices, for you and your family that God will give you peace of mind and the continued support and love of friends. God bless, Lisa
Heather,
I’m praying for you all - the family, for sweet Emma, and for her doctors, too.
Jennifer
gomomyourocks last blog post..Project 365: Day 151 - May 30
Praying, Heather….may God’s love surround you.
Mary
Owlhavens last blog post..Religious freedom and children’s rights
Praying. (((HUGS)))
Going to hit my knees now.
Just remember to keep your eyes on the Lord and don’t look down. His hands are there to catch you, even if you fall.
Hugs and Prayers to you & your family!
Michelles last blog post..Processing and Prayers
Dear Heather, I am praying for you all and will call my friends to also.
Maries last blog post..
Oh, Heather, this is not what I expected to be reading when I checked your blog today! Will be lifting sweet Emma and her loving family before the throne. God Bless!
Heather and Family-
We are praying for you in MI. I pray that the doctors and nurses hands and minds are guided by the Holy Spirit. May Jesus wrap His arms around you and comfort you all in His infinite mercy and grace. Take care of yourself Heather, Jennifer
Dear Heather,
Oh, my heart just sank when I read this regarding sweet Emma. I am praying right now and will continue to do so. Hold each other close and know that God is with you all. I don’t know what else to say. God bless.
Molly (:
oh, Heather. I am thinking of you right now and little Emma! I just asked God to protect her little heart and body and make her better. I am praying for you as well and praying that you and your family can make the right decisions concerning Emma’s care. God bless you and know that you will be on my mind.
Mandy
GA
http://www.madelinegracefoundation.com
oh, Heather. I am thinking of you right now and little Emma! I just asked God to protect her little heart and body and make her better. I am praying for you as well and praying that you and your family can make the right decisions concerning Emma’s care. God bless you and know that you will be on my mind.
Mandy
GA
http://www.madelinegracefoundation.com
Heather, we here at Bradenton calvary chapel are fervently praying. May the Lord bring His peace and comfort to Emma and the family.
In His Peace and Grace,
elaine
Praying for Emma and your family.
Saras last blog post..Welcome To The Family!
Heather, my daughter and I said a prayer for you tonight and will keep you and your family in our prayers. May God give you strength in this time of trouble.
Praying for Emma and the rest of the family…doctors, etc… I pray the Lord give you his strength and peace in this situation. I can’t imagine what you are going through but know I and others are praying. I will be passing this request on. The Lord be with you…
Kathleen Maries last blog post..FIF - Joey’s Favorite Chocolate Oatmeal No-bake Cookies
I am so sorry to hear that. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Jennifer (Et Tu?)s last blog post..Becoming equipped
Heather, I will be praying for Emma, her doctors, you, & your entire family.
I am just beyond sorry to hear about this!!!!!!! Dear little Emma!! Prayers, thoughts, hugs and more!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Janice (5 Minutes for Mom)s last blog post..“No, You Think!”
We are praying and thanking the Lord for attentive teachers that pick up on trouble so quickly. I have learned over the years that although I may want a different doctor at times, Jesus puts me right where I need to be, in HIS hands, and so is your Emma. I know this is a hard time for you as well since you are in the midst of your chemo, so I am praying you get the care you need as well so you can be there for Emma. You both need to be virus free. Jesu, hug them and pour out your peace over them as they trust in your love and care.
Because of Jesus, Bobbie
bobbies last blog post..Show and Tell Friday Biking
Praying in AZ! You don’t know me, but I am have received a prayer request from a mutual friend, Lundie. I will continue to pray for your family, for the doctors’ wisdom, and for God’s mighty protection to be upon you all. May His peace flood thru you and His glory be evident to all
Oh Heather! I am praying for your sweet, precious Emma-Grace. And for you and your dear husband, too, that you will have physical strength beyond what is normal, clarity to make the right decisions, and that your cnacer will behave itself, and that you body will be strong and able to fight of any and all bugs so you do not become ill yourself. may peace be yours in abundance.
Jens last blog post..I need to beg forgiveness.
We’re praying.
((hugs))
Lund
Lundies last blog post..Urgent Prayer Request
saw your page thru a friend on TSMSS and I have added your precious family to our church prayer blog site. http://wmfirstassemblyofgodprays.blogspot.com/ We will be praying for a miracle for you and Emma!
Laurie @ womentakingastand.blogspot
Heather you and your family have been through enough. I will be praying for Emma!!
Kathleens last blog post..stop the insanity
Hi Heather,
I am so heart broken for your family. I can’t imagine what your family is going through right now, but my family and I are going through a different kind of nightmare of our own. I know how much it means to my family to know that the saints of God are praying for us, so I just wanted you to know that we’re lifting your family and your precious Emma up to the Lord.
Josephine
Josephines last blog post..Elgin’s Birthday
I am so sorry to read this. Emma and all of your family are in my prayers.
Episcopollyannas last blog post..Busy, crazy day & a busy, crazy week
I am praying.
melodys last blog post..In Case You Missed The Giveaways
Heather and Emma and Family,
I’m lifting all of you up to our heavenly Father right now. Rest in His capable arms.
Carol
Heather, I only comment ocassionally but I check yout journal several times a day to see if you have added anything else.
I am so sorry to hear about Emma, my thoughts and prayers are with her and your whole family. I sincerely hope everything will work out well for you.
Take Care of yourself as well.
Lots of Love Carolynn
You’re in our prayers, and in God’s hands . . .
Janes last blog post..Wordless Wednesday
And here I pray, Oh Lord Jesus…
…no words would come out of my head/mouth …
.. and yet I know that the Holy Spirit intercedes .. we groan, we sigh, and the Holy Spirit helps us pray …
we’re praying….
I know your comments shows our latest post. Incidentally, it’s the song STRONG TOWER. I know that Jesus is your STRONG TOWER , the shelter over you; your hiding place…
Liza’s Eyeviews last blog post..Strong Tower - Kutless
I’m so sorry Heather. I will keep Emma and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Heather, please know I’m praying.
Love,
Steph
Adventures In Babywearings last blog post..The Circle Of Life
My prayers are with you Emma and with all of you.
Cathys last blog post..Friday Felicities May 30
heather, we met through your mom’s group a while back. i just happened upon your site and am saddened by your current situation as well as sweet little emma’s.
i am amazed at your strength and unending faith. you are an inspiration to all. good luck, god bless and you are in my prayers always. god bless, sharon ness
I have added your prayer need to our church prayer blog http://wmfirstassemblyofgodprays.blogspot.com/ I am believing for a miracle for your family, not only for your sweet daughter but for you as well.
Heather, I am so very sorry that precious little Emma’s heart is struggling again.
I cannot even begin to imagine the strength you must summon each day to get through all the health challenges your family faces. I know your faith is what keeps you going and it is so wonderful that the blogosphere can see that faith in action.
Please know that we are praying too.
In Christ,
Susan
Susan (5 Minutes for Mom)s last blog post..Prayers…
Praying for you…each one! Praying for the doctors and for the LORD to come and be mighty to save over your Emma.
Love,
holly
holly smiths last blog post..It’s Like Finals All Over Again
I’m praying Heather…
I am praying for you and your family right now. My own little Emma is about to have open heart surgery at All Children’s Hospital in Tampa. She is 5 yrs old and although we’d previously been told she was inoperable, they now believe that it will be done in just one month! God is still in the miracle business, and we are believing one for your Emma. God bless you in your difficult time, and may you feel His Peace that surpasses all and the Comfort of the Holy Spirit as well.
Merediths last blog post..A very sweet tribute
Heather, our family has never stopped praying for you, Emma and your family. But we will increase the intensity and put Emma’s name on our Temple prayer roll.
Tammy and Parkers last blog post..Dear Friday
Prayers from the Rochester area zooming towards Miss Emma. Love from MN.
Taras last blog post..Works For Me Wednesday
praying for ya’ll and for Heather….and will spread the word!!
Christis last blog post..Getting excited about our CRUISE!
Praying. Love and strength.
World’s Greatest Mommys last blog post..The Rules of Joking
Heather, your in my prayers - little girl Emma is in my prayers - stay strong…much love and lots of (((((hugs)))))
Jenns last blog post..Fun with the geese, the fish, and the siblings
Praying for you all!
Anne-Maries last blog post..The Business of Busyness
Heavenly Father, watch with us over your child Emma, and grant that she may be restored to that perfect health which it is yours alone to give; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
May the love & grace of God watch over Emma, you, your family & the skilled medical team.
You are all in our prayers,
Lisa
Sending love and prayers your way. Please keep us updated when you can.
I pray that you and Mark have peace that passes all understanding, that the doctors have wisdom beyond their earthly knowledge. That Emma has strength in her body that amazes everyone around her!
Blessings
Shayna
Bless your heart - sent here from 5 minutes for mom. Will be praying for you and your family!
I’m so sorry to hear this news. I will be praying for dear Emma!
Overwhelmed With Joy!s last blog post..May Pay It Forward Giveaway- 21 books a CD & a DVD up for grabs!
praying for emma!! Long time reader, but hardly ever comment. Just wanted to let you know your baby girl is in my thoughts, as are you!!!
mandys last blog post..FFF ~~Just one picture~~
Heather~
Sending love and prayers to you, Emma and your entire family!
ExtraordinaryMommys last blog post..Two years and counting my blessings
I am praying that the Lord will lay His hand on your precious Emma and keep her with you for many many wornderful years to come!!!! Cry out to Him and He will hear you, listen, and provide according to His will !