Day 38: Stand

At various times over the past five weeks, it appeared as though God was sending Susanne little messages along the way to give her the strength and comfort that she needed during this challenging time. She remembers early in Paxton's journey driving by a church and reading a sign that said, "God is never in a hurry, his timing is always perfect." On another day Susanne saw a car drive by that had "Jesus Loves You" on the bumper. More recently she read a sign that said, "Though the Earth may shake, God is our firm foundation." Most recently, Susanne turned on the radio and heard a song by Rascal Flatts called "Stand". The interesting thing was that the song was being played during an ad for St. Jude's hospital. Between the regular lyrics there were testimonials from multiple mothers that had had a hospitalized child. It was really touching. These were the little things that reminded Susanne that there is something bigger out there and that God has a plan...a perfect plan called Paxton.
Today Susanne was informed that so far Paxton was tolerating the breast milk very well. His first fecal occult test came back negative which was amazing news. Now he would just need to pass two more tests and then he would be home free.
Paxton had an appointment with the speech therapist later in the day. The best part was that the therapist wanted to try an oral feeding with Paxton for the first time. She wanted to start slowly since he had never eaten anything by mouth. The therapist had Susanne put a gloved finger in Paxton's mouth while the therapist syringe fed him some milk as he suckled. Susanne was told that if he continues to do as well as he has been doing, she might be able to try a special bottle next week to further assess how he tolerates the oral feedings.
Paxton was awake for most of the afternoon so Susanne made sure to help him practice his physical and occupational therapy exercises. He continued to do very well.
One of the women from the child life development department came by with a mobile for Paxton's crib. It was a big hit. Paxton loved looking at it, especially as he was starting to fall asleep.
Paxton was so excited when his daddy showed up this evening. He was able to get in some snuggle time before Colleen and Chris came over with dinner. Nothing like having a filet in a hosital room. After dinner, they headed over to Jammin' Java to listen to Tyrone Wells play. Susanne had water on the rocks while everyone else enjoyed an oat soda or two...or five. A good time was had by all. Susanne and Scott always get their fill of laughter when they are with the Neumanns.


"STAND"
By: Rascal Flatts

You feel like a candle in a hurricane
Just like a picture with a broken frame
Alone and helpless
Like you've lost your fight
But you'll be alright, you'll be alright

Cause when push comes to shove
You taste what you're made of
You might bend, till you break
Cause its all you can take

On your knees you look up
Decide you've had enough
You get mad you get strong
Wipe your hands shake it off
Then you Stand, Then you stand

Life's like a novel
With the end ripped out
The edge of a canyon
With only one way down
Take what you're given before its gone
Start holding on, keep holding on

Everytime you get up
And get back in the race
One more small piece of you
Starts to fall into place

Cause when push comes to shove
You taste what you're made of
You might bend, till you break
Cause its all you can take

Yeah, then you stand.