11 in Heaven

Tommorrow.  Tommorrow is Caleb's 11th birthday.  It pains me that he is not here. But I am in the same turn so grateful that he is at peace and not suffering- God has my little boy in His hands. I know many families who right now are going through similar circumstances of taking care of their beautiful children who they will lose at an early age.  Some of them are already on Hospice, some are being treated still, but the options are minimal.  Children with epilepsy who are dying need comfort, help, reassurance, love.  Their families are giving constantly to keep the child as happy as possible and to keep the symptoms, and seizures specifically under as much control as possible.  THAT IS A DAUNTING TASK. 
Being in that place, where you are bridging your child from this world to Heaven.  It is overwhelming. There are the daily tasks that keep you busy from sun up to sun down, and throughout the night at times.  There are the emotions that you push aside just so you can get through the day.  There is the rest of the family that needs your attention, not to mention clean clothes. 
Please reach out, if you are family--do whatever it takes to HELP your family through the day.  If you are a neighbor, cook a meal, come over and do the laundry.  If you live out of town, send them pizza one night, send them Walmart cards, or just a card saying you are praying for them.  Be a friend.  Be an encouragement.  And above all, if you can't lift them up- get out of the way.
To parents who are in this position, don't let anyone affect your focus.  Your purpose is to help your child, and if anyone keeps you from staying the course or emotionally is taxing on you--kindly tell them to move on.
Remember in the Bible where Moses grew weary in battle, and as long as his hands were raised they would triumph?  Aaron and Hur in Exodus 17 held up his arms.  I always said when taking care of our Caleb "If you can't hold up my arms, get out of my way!" 

I miss him, every moment of every day.  I hurt for him so much it makes me physically sick.  But is is whole, seizure free, and in the best place of all, with God in Heaven.  I hope that I can live my life in a way that "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain".  Phil. 1:21.  Caleb was perfect other than his illness.  He made many want to live a life as Christ would have them.  He brought out the best in all of us.  He gained Heaven.  One day I will get to be there too.  Until then, fight on.  Live and show Christ to others.  Live and Be The Blessing.  Love, Beth

Helping Patients Healing Families

It is tough.  Having a child with special needs is.  Knowing that their life on this earth will be shorter than yours as a parent is overwhelming. 

Below is the link to a recent presentation I gave in Paducah, KY.

I had the privilege of sharing our story and giving insight to the lives of families with children with chronic illness at West Kentucky Community and Technical College on August 20th.  I was overwhelmed with the interest, attendance, caring and concern of the students.  Many of them were nursing students and staff, or students working toward other degrees, perhaps in social work or psychology.  My first audience contained community members, staff and some students.  There were around 60 there, it was nice to speak to them, and many had really great questions.  The second speaking event had community members, friends, staff and students, I estimated around 200 in attendance.  I was encouraged again by the kind attention and insightful questions asked.  I always say there is no question that is "off limits."  I received a standing ovation at the end of that presentation.  My heart was overwhelmed with joy--for my beautiful child and precious family that have walked the journey and carried me with them.  I AM SO BLESSED.  Caleb continues to touch the lives of families walking similar paths, impacting the hearts of parents, influencing the care of future health professionals.  His life continues to bless me, every day, to live life with LOVE at the center. 

Blessings,
Beth