“I wish
More than life
I wish
More than anything
More than the moon
I wish we had a child”
-Into the Woods
Today is my birthday and the only gift I want is lying in a plastic box, wrapped in a fleece blanket. If I could blow out a million candles, I’d wish for the same thing every single time.
Penny is not doing well. This is the worst she’s been so far in her five weeks of life.
She started retaining fluid and hasn’t peed in over 24 hours. She’s extremely swollen. She’s gained half her current body weigh in fluids alone. The doctor told us if she doesn’t pee, there’s nothing more they can do. If she doesn’t pee, she won’t make it. They’re doing everything they can to make that happen, but so far nothing has turned the tide.
As if that weren’t enough, last night her right lung collapsed. They’ve since been able to inflate it back open, but as a result she’s been needing 100% oxygen. Low oxygen can affect your kidneys, which in turn affects urination.
Her sodium is low. Her blood pressure is low. Her heart rate is high. The list goes on. The weight of it all, crushing. Each thing affects the other. A medley of fluids and medications, our child’s life hanging in their delicate balance.
They say the NICU is like a roller coaster. It’s an apt metaphor, but it doesn’t quite capture the experience correctly. It’s a never-ending roller coaster. And you’re handcuffed to the car. And the restraints don’t work. You’re holding on for dear life. For her life. You want to get off, but you have to stay on.
Jenny and I have been scared before, but this is dire. Please think of her whenever you find yourself with a spare moment. Say a prayer as you walk your dog. Send your love while you do the dishes. We need her to pull through this… It’s my only wish. It’s the only wish that matters.
Comments
Contending for her life and for her strength. 🙏🙏🙏😭
I’ve been thinking and praying for Penny and for you and Jenny often. Love to you all.
Prayers from Montana
Praying for a miracle on your Birthday-We’ve been praying all day since Mary Beth told us this morning of the Great need for prayer.
I pray your birthday wish comes true. Thinking of you three and praying often. 🤍
Praying for a miracle for your baby Penny! Only God!
Reading and holding space in my heart for you all. I’m not too far (Logan Square) so please message me if there’s any random thing you need delivered.
I’m praying for Penny and for you.
Saying so many prayers. All my love to you three.
Rick, your wish is my wish (and I wish it could be my command). Love and strength to you and Jenny and your precious Penny.
Praying
Praying for a miracle.
Blessings. LOVE & HOPE for your precious Baby Penny tonight and all the days to come. Strength to carry on.
Praying for a miracle.
We continue to pray for Penny, you, Jenny, the doctors, and nurses.
<3<3<3
I’m so very sorry. I’ve been praying continually through the day today.
Praying for you.
Praying Christ’s loving arms around you and Ms Penny! Praying God’s love and wellness!!
Praying without ceasing for you guys and your precious, precious Penny! 💗
No one is alone. Sending all our love to your family.
Our hearts are heavy with yours, Rick and Jenny. Praying for healing, restoration, peace, and miracles.
Storming heavens gates in prayers for your sweet Penny. Praying the Lord will sustain her and continue to breathe life into her. Praying for strength, peace and comfort for you both as you navigate through this most impossible time. Know there is an army of people Praying for your Penny💜💜
God I come to you in prayer, head bowed and on my knees. Tonight I need your strength and healing, those miracles you send freely. Lay your hands upon sweet Penny; give her all the strength she needs. You are the ultimate physician Lord, there is healing in your grace.
God move this mighty mountain, we know you make the way; this warrior soul you’ve given, Lord, she’s fighting here to stay. Bless this baby girl, let her serve you all life long. Write a story for the ages; one that will bring people to your table. All created in your image Lord; we know you’re more than able. Never giving up on us, you walk this journey too; you only want the best for us and we live to serve you.
-Amen
Little Penny and you both have our every prayer!
Oh, Lord, have mercy. Praying.
Praying every day, now every minute for God to heal and save your little girl. Sweet Penny. She is precious.
Praying so much and so hard for you God always has a plan even when we don’t understand
praying for sweet little Penny she has overcome so much and
has quite the testimony
praying that she will do well tonight I’m so sorry for all
you’ve been through!! You guys are amazing what beautiful stories and testimonies you have let’s all keep praying I know it’s hard but let’s pray for God‘s will. I refuse to believe that there is not a purpose in everything if we turn to Him He is faithful and will answer our prayers according to his will. We have been with you throughout this journey. Thank u for sharing your testimony of faith. You guys are amazing. We are blessed to be a part of your journey. We will be
praying throughout night nonstop
I’m praying with nearly every breath for Penny and all of your family. We have several prayer groups praying. Marcia Elder
We are all praying. Almost all of St. Augustine is praying for Penny.