So Thankful

Yesterday I mentioned that we were going to take Jordan to the doctor today. Here's the story . . .

At Jordan's 8 year check up back in February, his pediatrician noticed that his thyroid was enlarged. After learning that I too have an enlarged thyroid she felt it was necessary to do some lab work. She referred us to a Pediatric Endocronologist at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. SO THANKFUL that Bobby was able to take the day off so we could take him together. The dr. explained that at this point there is nothing to be done but watch and see what his body does. Jordan shows no symptoms; growth and weight changes are normal. In fact he is in the 85th and 75th percentiles on the charts. His energy is good and he sleeps well. The dr. was in awe that his pediatrician was able to detect the enlargement, it is very slight. SO THANKFUL for a great pediatrician who really cares and is good at what she does, and detected something that others wouldn't have noticed. He ordered more blood tests and we will be back to see him in six months. Nothing to worry about, as long as there are no symptoms we can keep him off medication. SO THANKFUL for such a wonderful hospital. We were amazed at what a difference it was to be in a hospital just for children. Bright colors, play areas, even a McDonald's. It was almost like being in a museum. All in all it was a wonderful experience. We should have the test results tomorrow but do not anticipate a change, for now.

As we entered the hospital, I felt incredibly overwhelmed to see the children that were there. Kids on crutches, in wheelchairs and even strollers that were brought in for various reasons, some obvious, some not so obvious. I could not help but feel SO VERY THANKFUL for the three beautiful, healthy and happy children that God has given us. I cannot imagine what it would be like to bring any of them to this hospital because of a more serious illness. I know that you never want to hear that your child has something different or "wrong" with them, but when I think about what Jordan has, which is treatable and can be harmless, I am SO THANKFUL for it. As we were sitting in the waiting room at the lab we saw a little girl, maybe 3 years old, in a wheelchair and living with a much more serious illness. She was having surgery that day and her mother was comforting her as they were waiting for the blood test. The mom seemed so calm, at least on the outside, knowing that her daughter was going to have some kind of surgery in a few hours. I admired them. I felt sorry for them. I cried for them. I look over and Bobby is crying too. It really is hard to see kids hurt and upset. The funny thing is that all the girl cared about was getting a Spongebob toy from McDonald's. The mom promised her one after the surgery.

We walked out of the hospital. Jordan is going to be fine. I hope that little girl is fine and she is enjoying her Happy Meal. And I am feeling THANKFUL.