When Ryder got a fever a week ago, we definitely didn't think we would end up in the Emergency Room. Even further from that thought was that he would end up having surgery to remove his inflamed appendix! I'm writing this from the waiting room in the hospital down the street from our new home. My sweet little (almost) 3 year old is in the operating room right now as a team of nurses and doctors surround his little body and remove his appendix. There's been no news as to how the operation went yet, but I can tell you from the series of tests that lead up to this moment in the last 4 hours, that the Lord has us in good hands. The nurses and doctors have all been incredibly helpful and gentle in their care of him. When Ryder asked me to pray for him last night as he was tossing and turning in pain, I prayed that Jesus would heal this little body and take away his pain right then! I told Ryder right before they wheeled him away today, that it was in the hands of these nurses and doctors that Jesus would heal him. I wanted him to be healed in his bed last night, but Jesus had different plans and his plan is always good, even if the process is painful.
We know from His Word that out of painful experiences, God develops depth of character in us. I've always had a sense that the Lord wanted to use my sons in very special ways. (Don't all praying mothers think the same thing!) What I didn't know, was that God is already developing in Ryder the depth of character that will be used to glorify the Lord in days to come. The endurance, courage, and perseverance that Ryder is developing from this whole experience of moving and now surgery will be used to glorify his creator someday soon. For that I am thankful.
I love my son more than anything in the world and leaving him as they rolled him away down the hall was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. I felt like I betrayed his thought that mom would always be there. but really, the greatest treasure I can give him is not my presence, but the knowledge of the truth...Mom and Dad can't always be there, but Jesus will never leave. I actually think he gets this now since he said to me in his sleepy, bloodshot-eyed state, "Mommy, Jesus will be here?" "Yes, precious," I said. "Jesus will never leave you...ever." Praise God for that.
Danice,
I am praying for your little one right now. And will be praying for him continually. I just had my own appendix removed 3 days ago and can't IMAGINE how that pain must be like for a little child, let alone the fear. But you are right---the LORD is in control and has His gracious and merciful hand on your sweet boy. Please keep us updated on how he is doing--I am so eager to see pictures of him up and around, smiling and eating that yummy hospital food! :)
My prayers are with you RIGHT NOW and all night. You are a good mother, Danice. My prayers are also with you and your heart that is so heavy right now.
Danice, So sorry to hear about Ryder's surgery! Wow! I am constantly amazed at the resiliency of kids though and I am praying that he will be comforted once he is out of surgery. So sorry you have to go through this so early!!! Praying for speedy recovery and continued strength for each of you!!! Wish I was there to be his Child Life Specialist!!! (o:
Love: Carissa
Love you guys!
Aww, I had my appendix out on Christmas Day a couple years ago and heading to surgery was the only time I've ever had a near panick attack. All I knew to do was ask my boyfriend to pray into my ear, and I prayed myself all the way into the room (refusing to open my eyes or acknowledge the doctors talking to me.) Good for little Ryder for being so brave, and what a lucky boy to have that sense of peace we get only from being held in the palm of God's hand.
How is little RyRy doing now? I hope he is feeling much better! I am praying for you guys out there - God is going to continue to move in mighty ways!! Great idea on the blog - I love it!!
Love you, Jenny
Danice,
We all have been praying for Ryder and all of your family. I so understand how you felt when they took Ryder into surgery. It is so hard to not be able to be with your child when they are hurting and need comfort. My comfort was knowing that Jesus was holding Taylor in that operating room just as I know he was holding Ryder. We will continue to pray for Ryder's recovery, for your family and Johns' new job. We love you all and miss you so much.
Tammi