It was one year ago today that Joel came home sick from school and what started our journey with Crohn's.  I told Moose just this morning that even visiting the hospital today for his treatment had brought up so many emotions of this time last year.  I found myself walking around the hospital on the fourth day Joel had been admitted to the hospital last December.  He had been through hours of tests the day before and none of us had much sleep at all the few days before preparing for his tests.  I found myself at the end of my walk sitting in the chapel crying out to God to take away Joel's pain and to please give us the answers we needed to help him get better.  Within hours of returning to his room, his doctors had confirmed their diagnosis and began treatment that evening.  We all knew to trust in GOD and his timing, but I felt even closer to him that day and hearing him just say "Trust Me." We've had so many more examples where we've had to "trust" this year, and God has shown us the way each time.  We continue to tell Joel that God has a plan for him and we have to "trust" that this is part of his plan and it will be used for HIS good one day.  

It hit me on the drive down here today, that even though kids are resilient and tough, they have those same emotions that can be triggered by the sight of Christmas decorations at the front of the hospital or a certain holiday song that comes on now.  Joel started reminiscing about the timeline of events that took place this time last year.  Asking me if I remembered certain visitors or things he had to have done.  I told him it's been a long year, but one we're so thankful for with the care and love he's received by his doctors, nurses, friends and family.  Seven treatment infusions so far this year, multiple tests and appointments, and he always does them with a smile.  I can't say I'd have as good of an attitude as he does on most visits.  We also talked about how it reminds both of us of how it feels to be in the hospital this time of year during the holidays.  With limited visitors in hospitals due to Covid currently, my heart aches for families that may be enduring time in the hospital during the holidays.  One thing I did remind Joel, though, was how much we were able to witness GOD's love being displayed throughout the hospital and still do to this day.  From donations of toys, blankets, activities for families, etc. there are so many organizations that take time to show they care.  If you are looking for a place to make a holiday donation, please prayerfully consider Texas Children's Hospital.  You truly have no idea how much your love and generosity just might be the answer to someone's prayer from the chapel that day.  God bless!!