A little perspective for tough days

[mommyof2boys]

Well, I've been greatly frustrated lately by the 40-minute-monster, but then on Saturday I got a perspective check.

The sister of one of my best friends had a baby almost 8 months ago--10 weeks premature at the time.  Not only did this little one have to fight the prematurity to survive; he was also diagnosed with a genetic muscle disease that makes him terribly weak.

He has had a tracheotomy and eats through a feeding tube; his muscles are slack and he will likely never sit up on his own, even if he makes it through this first year.  BTW, he is perfectly fine mentally.

His mommy and daddy had his "welcome home" party this weekend; he'd been in the hospital until 2 months ago.  After all that time of praying, I finally got to meet this little guy.  It broke my heart to see all that he and his parents are going through.  He cannot make any noise at all due to the tracheotomy, so one of his parents always has to be watching him, day and night––suctioning the trach every few minutes so he doesn't choke.  They occasionally have help at night from a nurse, but not enough.

So, now when my little guy cries, I try to be thankful that he can cry.  My hardest days are nothing compared to what this family goes through. 

I don't want to minimize anyone's frustration--I know that this can be extremely difficult.  I just want to share a bit of perspective.

Thanks so much.

[albertasweetpea]

Thank you so much for that perspective.
So sorry to hear about your friend's LO - what a sad story.  :cry:  :cry:
Whenever I get frustrated with either of my kids I try to remember how many people have lost their children or how many people want so badly to have kids and cannot. It makes me grateful and thankful for what I have and does put everything in perspective.
Thanks again.

[Matka]

Thank you for sharing.  We too are dealing with the 40 min. monster and it's all to easy to get frustrated.  My ds is 3 months old and 16lbs, big, and healthy.  Who cares if only sleeps for 45 min. at a time!  I will keep your family in my prayers.

Kathy-Ann

[Mum to Ella Rose]

Thank you so much for sharing... I'm off to give my dd a great big hug...

Sharon

[Mia & Scarlett's Mummy]

Oh Goodness, that's made me realise that 45 minute nap "problems" aren't problems at all they are just blips and part and parcel of having a normal, healthy, spirited baby girl.

Your friends sound like fantastic people.

I work at a residential school for children with autism (though I'm currently on maternity leave) and my job makes me realise what a game of chance it is having children and how lucky you are to have a healthy baby.

I think we all need a bit of perspective sometimes.  I too am off to give my dd a bit kiss and cuddle.

Louise