Day 28 - July 13 - Eeyore vs. Tigger
Brad spoke on the phone with JoƩlle last evening, and observed to her that she was a lot more bubbly than her Dad. She told him that "Dad is the Eeyore of the family, and I'm the Tigger!" Brad commented to me later that she should be posting to the blog, as we could use a more "Tigger-y" viewpoint. I agreed, so now I'm in the process of convincing her to post some of her observations and views of this journey.
Until she does, however, I'll get you up to speed on the boy. I just came out of the room, where he is still on the more normal respirator setting, and his saturation numbers are all fairly good. The RT is trying to lower certain numbers, so he's performing this delicate balancing act to keep the boy stabilized while also reducing the pressures and percentages back toward normal. His X-ray this morning showed "a slight improvement" over yesterday.
The thing that got me today was when Connor kept trying to say something to me, and I couldn't quite get it. It started with "happy", but I was unsure of the rest. Finally, though, we worked it out - he was wishing me "happy belated birthday".
What do you do with a son who, while lying unmoving in a bed, apologizes because he missed your birthday? I told him he didn't need to worry about me, but about himself. He got his "angry" face and said "I don't care about me, I care about you!"
After I could speak again, I told him that he had just given me the best birthday gift a father could get from his son - the knowledge that even now, my son is more concerned for others than for himself. I told him how proud that made me of him, that I could be the father of such a man. That gave me all four of our eyes to find tissues for!
I told this to Granny, and she observed that we could take another lesson from the boy. Ain't that the truth...

8 Comments:
Now I need tissue!
What a fine young man you and Cherie have raised. I'm praying today that God would encourage Connor in a special way...in his mind, spirit, and heart.
I think it's a great idea for Joelle to post her thoughts! (But, Eric, I hope you continue to post, as well. We need the Eeyore-truth as much as Tigger's!)
By the way, when is Connor's birthday?
Ever praying,
Jenann
I'm not much of a crier. Even when tragedy strikes - me or others - I rarely catch myself tearing up. But every once in a while, usually when I witness an act of unbridled selflessness, I can't help but shed a tear (or one, or two, or three, or...). I must say, reading this blog entry has been one of those times. Ever since the start of this ordeal, Connor's family has been an enormous encouragement and inspiration to me (as well as to many, many others!). Now Connor himself has become just as encouraging. I don't see a small group of soldiers fighting to defend a fallen member; I see a small army with Connor leading the charge and a host of angels at its back. May God bless you Connor - He has certainly blessed me through you today.
><> Matt Sheppard
What a blessing that Connor can communicate his love to his dad!
We sang this song today at church- 1st time- and I couldn't stop thinking about your family and Connor throughout the whole song. I don't know if you have ever heard it- but it's about "My Healer" and "Nothing is impossible for You." I had to find it on the internet - God bless finding Christian music on the internet that speaks to our souls and encourages others. Please listen- it is beautifully written.
--Denise Nash
http://www.imeem.com/mosesvalle/music/Nn616ryG/mike_guglielmucci_healer/
Eric and Family,
I hope you can see the "Tigger in that moment" (oh, she called me dear!) What an amazing son you have, and what a witness to your amazing parenting! We are awestruck at how you all are doing, along with how wonderfully you have been open with all of us.
What a wonderful witness you have had to both believers and nonbelievers alike. May you feel all the love and prayers we send your way. May you feel "lifted" up by knowing we all are "with you" during this time.
We would love to hear/see your lovely daughters thoughts and comments. Just as she brought Sunshine to your day, it would be good for her to put her thoughts into writting. As young Adults they can have a different "view" of things. Being close in age, and SO close to her brother she probably has insight that we as "boring, stressed" adults do not have. Do encourage her to put her personal request and view points onto/into this journey.
We love you all and are SO glad today had some sunlight thrown into the hardship of being in the ICU!
Keep the prayer request and praises coming as we long to lift you in prayer!
a Morgan Hill Family
All I can say is wow. What a wonderful young man you're raising! Pass the tissues, here, as I need some, too! ;-)
What a blessing! Connor has a special heart given to him by God! I pray that God in his mighty power will mend that heart, lungs, spine, etc. I know Connor will use his body and heart for the Lord wherever he leads him! Connor you are a blessing to me. it seems your glass is half full despite everything. God bless you everyday!
My hope is in God,
Krista
lewis
we love you guys and we sure love that "boy" of yours... He's very special and we know that his beautiful family are amazing people too...Hold onto the word.. It is your lifeline and your anchor.. God is our refuge a very present Help in trouble..
Please give hugs to all.
love,
The MacPhail's
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