With all that's gone on these past two weeks, I have not had time to post the short feature KSLTV did on our family. This was used during the Primary Children Medical Center's Miracle Network Telethon. The hospital was able to raise more than 2 million dollars to help some of the families that need financial assistance. The out-pouring of our Utah community is amazing. They talk about the many miracles happening daily at the hospital with the kids, but the miracle is the money raised.
In regards to my current health situation, I have some energy during the day. I continue taking a lot of medication, visiting the clinic every other week, and doing minor tests. It's been more than 10 months (308 days) since I was listed for a heart. I know others have been waiting two years so it's not bad. I have a routine down and amidst all of the chaos of life I have never been so happy in my marriage, as a father, and friend. There is a peace inside me that I know comes from all of the prayers empowering me to hang on, fight on, and conquer this wild dream!
A vital principle I've learned during this process is best said by Dr. Edward Erwin, First Baptist Church of Kentucky, who preached, "Stop waiting for life to come tomorrow, begin living today. Don’t miss what’s NOW because you are looking for what’s NEXT!" His statement is brilliant. Don't live life looking to the future for happiness. Rather, live today! Celebrate everything you have. Celebrate your family and friends. Material things are worthless. How you treat your family is priceless. Did you think to pray? Did you make someone smile? Did you say, "I love you."
Stop waiting for life to come tomorrow, begin living today. Don’t miss what’s NOW because you are looking for what’s NEXT!
I did not expect that video to bring me to tears. It is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI know God is watching over you Paul, just as you watch over your beautiful daughter.
I will celebrate today in honor of you and your new heart!
It is beautiful to hear how much money was raised for the hospital. It amazes me how few people know of heart defects still, even with the numbers growing. 1-85 babies born, one will be born with a special heart. A set of parents will be forced into the world that your parents lived, and a child will live the path of what you do along with the million of other heart babies/children/and adults.
ReplyDeletePaul next time you see your mother, please give her a hug for me. She is a pillar or strength, someone to look at with admiration. She has been a steady rock for 36 years and I pray that I can be just like that for my Lily. I had to blink back tears when you had said in the video, she heard them talking outside that you would not make it through the night. I have heard those same words before about Lily, and she proved them wrong. Medical technology only goes so far, in the end, just as in the beginning, it all is in the Lords hands.
Little Eden is adorable, a breath of fresh air to watch playing around. She is a beautiful little girl.
We contiune our prayers for your new heart, while praying for the donor family.
Sending you our heart hugs, love and prayers
Sincerely
Jenna and Lilyana and the rest of my McLauhlin Clan
Thanks for the reminder. It doesn't matter what our future holds - we really can live today.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great example of love, joy, and testimony!
- Chas
http://music.willowrise.com
Another uplifting, hopeful and wonderful post!! Thanks... I definelty needed that right now. I think sometimes I get ahead of myself and wish that Owen could move forward with his transplant. That he will be stronger, free of feeding pumps and oxygen. I come back from those moments and realize that I am SO VERY Grateful that he is Home and stable. I definetly LIVE in today, but sometimes get caught up in the tomorrow.
ReplyDeletePraying for your new heart to come soon! I noticed you have a little fanny pack -- is that for your milrinone or your oxygen?? I've been trying to find a way to make the oxygen a bit more portable for Mr. Owen.. not an easy task :).
Andrea
Paul, you are truly amazing. My son Hayden has tricuspid atresia and just had his 3rd surgery the fontan in Nov. of last year. We just had his 6 month check up yesterday with Dr. Day and he left with flying colors, were down to 2 meds. I cant believe the amazing things the doctors can do now. I cant wait for the day Hayden gets married and becomes a father, because 8 years ago we wern't sure how long he would be with us. Thanks for your blog for us all to read, you are truly amazing. I cant wait for the day I hear you have gotten your new angel heart. Good luck and God bless ~ Lori
ReplyDeleteVery touching video. What was that song that was being played in the background? It was beautiful.
ReplyDeleteYour family is always in our prayers.
It's funny that I started reading your blog after being linked in to Gracie's blog. I don't know if you had a chance to read Gracie's blog today but it's amazing that you both mention to "enjoy the ride, be thankful for today..." Both of your families have been an inspiration to me and remind me of what is really important in life. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteYou and your brother Brian are both amazing examples of living for today! I need this reminder often!
ReplyDeletePaul,
ReplyDeleteI am so glad that you posted this! I was sad to have missed the telethon. I love seeing you with Eden. Those will be priceless for you to sit down and watch as a family years from now. I imagine that Lynette was sitting in the background just loving the bond that you two get to share. We think of you guys often. How bout you get that magic call in August so that we can all hang out at Primary's together! (Grant is having his Glenn in August). :) We pray it comes even sooner, but I am grateful for this wonderful quote you shared today!
Love, love, love this message! This is a message ALL of us could live by! Just wanted to let you know that your sweet family is in our thoughts and prayers, and are praying you will be blessed with the miracle of a heart (and soon!!!)
ReplyDeleteHeart hugs,
Emily and Mike
I find it beautiful that you stay so positive. I love all of your quotes. I love to read your blog it helps me in my journey. I can't wait for the post that says that you have a new heart. So glad you are hanging in there. "Come what may and LOVE it!!"
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful relationship you have with Eden! I always enjoy your message of hope, peace and living life to the fullest. Thoughts for each of us walking upon the earth to apply to our lives daily! Thank you.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Paul. I appreciate your optimistic attitude and perspective. And it's fun to watch you play with your cute daughter in that video. :)
ReplyDeletePaul, thanks for the wonderful quote. You are an inspiration to me. I found your blog off of our Kansas Relief Society blog as the secretary kept posting your music on the playlist. Thanks for your playlist....I have been introduced to some great songs and christian groups I had never heard of. You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the reminder! What a simple, powerful thought--to begin living today. We love you and are grateful that you are feeling some strength from the many prayers that include you and your family daily. You are journeying through your personal wilderness with such valiancy (if that's a word...) and will eventually get to your promised land of peace. Thank you for showing us, reminding us, to find joy in the journey each day!
ReplyDeletePaul,
ReplyDeleteI was so touched by your optimisim and inspiring outlook on life. Thank you for letting me be a part of sharing your story with the telethon viewers. Your little girl is darling.
Best,
Jennifer Stagg
Thanks for being willing to share your journey! My prayers are with you.
ReplyDelete