We got through this past Wednesday and Maple is doing well. The supra pubic drain was removed and that has made her feel so much better. Maple is cathing every 3.5 hours which is a lot of hard work. Getting the catheter in is more challenging than before the surgery. It takes focus and precision to get the catheter in, which is tough for someone so young. Sometimes the catheter gets clogged with mucus and she has to remove it and start over. Maple starts the fourth grade in a little over a week. She will be cathing again at school with help and supervision. I am relieved that Maple will be able to return to her normal routine of cathing at school because we were unsure if it would be possible.

The past six weeks have been the hardest I can remember. The constant stress and demand of caring for Maple wore us out. Not to mention our other three young girls. Without the help of our family and friends it would have been impossible. But the fog is lifting and I’m starting to feel some peace and hope about the future. We will never have a completely carefree life because Maple will always have this medical condition. Her life has not and will not be easy, but I know it will be amazing. She is amazing. Maple has pushed through some very hard circumstances and often does it with a smile.

My parents offered to keep Maple and Sailor in Spartanburg this week, so we met my mom in Atlanta on Saturday. While we were at lunch Maple made a joke about her bladder. We were making fun of my mom for having to stop for frequent bathroom breaks on road trips and Maple said, “With my new bladder, I can hold it for years now!” We all laughed, and I allowed the moment to sink in deep. My petite, blonde-haired, blue-eyed offspring was laughing at the days to come (Proverbs 31:35).

We really do believe that Maple will have a wonderful and long life here on earth. But what has become apparent is that she is not living her best life. Her best life will come later. In a new heavens and new earth. Maple believes this too. It’s not that far away. Heaven is just around the corner for us.

I want to reiterate our deep gratitude for all the support we have been shown. Despite the hardship, we have felt seen and loved. Every card, text, gift, meal, and prayer have kept us going. Please continue to pray for us as we readjust to our new normal with Maple. Pray that cathing goes smoothly and she will be confident in her ability to cath away from home. May the Lord bless each of you for the way you have blessed us!