Friday, November 21, 2008

Together as a family

Aiden Day 12 (discharge)

12 days after birth, 10 days after open heart surgery, Aiden, his mom, dad, and Denver are home together as a family. Aiden was discharged from Children's Hospital around 11:30am and ventured out into the cold Pittsburgh outdoors bundled up and fast asleep! His mom and I rode home separately but Aiden didn't make a sound the entire trip home in dad's car (yes, I added that mental note for future reference :). After we brought Aiden into the house, I set him down in the living room and welcomed him home. Kimberly and I then turned to each other and hugged in tears of joy. "We're finally home", we said.

That was immediately followed by a taste of reality involving approximately two hours of screaming and numerous diaper changes!!! Unfortunately, Aiden also decided to not tolerate his feedings as we went through about 4 of our 150 outfits in 2 hours.

It was certainly a tough road to travel. Although, Aiden persevered through one of his toughest challenges in life. We still certainly have concerns about his health (without being able to look at the monitors anymore), wonder if we're taking care of him the right way, etc...but I guess this is what parenthood is about - making sure that your child is ok and has the best chance of success in life that he can have.

Although we knew we had an incredible group of family and friends, this experience has shown us that people are truly caring and generous. We have received so many kind words, gifts/clothes brought to us at the hospital, food delivered to our house, tending to our dog, sitting with us in the waiting rooms, thoughts, prayers, cards, emails....we probably missed something but do understand that we will never forget all of your acts of genuine kindness.

We will continue to post Aiden's progress on this site but on a less frequent basis. We think it's good to remember these times and keep track of Aiden's progression. We also love to read everyone's comments!

Thank you all again, from the bottom of our hearts.

And, thank you God for giving us our healthy little boy, Aiden.

A star has truly risen.

Jeff & Kimberly

8 comments:

  1. OMG...I am so happy and thankful to read this WONDERFUL NEWS!! CONGRATULATIONS!!! Aiden, welcome home!! Know that you are loved and cared for by so many people, many that you will never meet. You have the strength of someone so much older...know you are lifted up on the wings of eagles. God does hear our prayers. God bless and keep you. Kimberly and Jeff, you have done such an amazing job the past few days and I know you will continue to be loving, caring and supportive parents. Know that you are also cared for and loved. THANK YOU for your strength and perseverance, as I know both your will and faith have been tested during this difficult time. You will (and already are) such great parents. When you can, let us know how you and the little hercules are doing. All the best to you. God bless. Love, Kim L

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  2. You are home!!!!!! I can only imagine how great that must feel. Your family has been through an incredible journey in 12 short days, but you guys came through shining brightly. I can also only imagine how uncertain being home must feel. Bringing home a newborn is a challenge, (period!) even when they haven't endured all that Aiden has. Be patient, you will soon find a routine. Yes there will be good days and bad. There will be laughter, tears and unfortunately fears, but you WILL find you comfort zone!!!!!! Forget about those monitors (They were just full of a bunch of stupid numbers.) Kimberly, I know easier said than done but, you are a MOM who is a nurse (BONUS!!!!!) not the other way around. Kimberly and Jeff you are both amazing, intelligent individuals. Trust your instincts, and you will both be even more wonderful parents than you already are. Enjoy each other every minute!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
    All my love and prayers!

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  3. Kim & Jeff

    This blog is addictive. You don’t even know me but I am offering you advice as if we were very close. Your son’s struggle has touched many people that you will probably never get to know. You opened your souls to many people. Your tears and your joys have been shared. Too be honest it has made all of us feel important and good. Aiden has already improved our lives. I am going to try to stop reading it because I want to believe that every day is normal and healthy for all of you. You have learned quickly that each day is precious. Raise your son one day at a time and enjoy every moment. You are special parents and Aiden is in your care for a reason. He will give you smiles and laughter a lot more often than tears and worry. Good Luck and God Bless You. Pic

    Our Very Own Son
    Born not from our flesh,
    but born in our hearts,
    You were longed for and wanted
    and loved from the start.
    Conceived from a blessing
    sent straight from above,
    Our very “own” son
    at last home to love. ~ Unknown

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  4. Welcome home Aiden!!! Congratulations Kimberly and Jeff!!! The three of you absolutely amaze me. I'm so pleased you are home now. Enjoy every minute because they grow so quickly. --Chris Z.

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  5. WELCOME HOME AIDEN!!! God bless you as you continue to grow and heal.. and God bless your Mommy and Daddy for their strength! We have all been behind you... in thoughts and prayers, and that certainly won't stop now!! I totally agree with one of the other bloggers... this has been a daily part of my life... thinking of you, praying for you, and reading about your progress. Now that you are a big boy... (two weeks old tomorrow!!!)...I can't wait to see you again...
    Enjoy your new home Aiden. Every day is a gift. Your Mommy and Daddy already know that. You have lots of friends and family that can't wait to share life with you!
    Love, hugs and prayers.... Molly.

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  6. Congratulations Kimberly and Jeff! Welcome home Aiden!! Uncle Rob e-mailed me your blog and I have only praise for your strength and faith you have persevered during the past two weeks during Aiden's surgery and recovery. Amazing is the word that describes the both of you and Aiden is truly blessed with a wonderful mommy and daddy.Thinking of you,and continued prayers for the Curry family. This truly will be a wonderful Thanksgiving for your family....God bless you..Mary Ann

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  7. Hi Jeff, Kimberly and Aiden, How is the family doing? Hope all is well. If must be so wonderful to be home. This IS going to be a wonderful Thanksgiving for all of you. Aiden has been blessed with a wonderful mom and dad and Jeff and Kimberly have been blessed with a very strong little baby boy. Can't wait to see our new little great nephew at some point. Give him a kiss for us. Love, Aunt Diane & Uncle Jerry

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  8. Hi all - I just picked up on your blog and Shana and I are thrilled that you all are home now - Aiden's nursery looks great, and he's a cute little guy. Our best from Norfolk, VA. -John

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