Claire's Hope

It's been over two months since Claire was admitted to the hospital for her very serious lung surgery. The surgery was touch and go the whole time and the recovery had us very concerned. Besides our obvious fears for what was going on inside her body, we've also been worried about what's been going on inside her heart. Two months is a long time for anyone to be in a hospital, and this is Claire's second stay, the first lasting over six months! What sort of impact can almost not making it multiple times have on a little girl?

Claire's story could have easily taken a turn downhill. It could have been so easy for her to give up, grow weary of being so sick and of being unable to do what other children can do. It could have been easy for her to lose hope - but she hasn't. Just looking at these pictures taken recently of her brings hope to our hearts. She's smiling, she's playing, and she's loving her life because she is loved!

Claire isn't out of the hospital yet, she isn't even out of the deep waters. Every day is a battle for her life, but because of the joy in her heart and the hope in her eyes, we have confidence that she will emerge victorious!