Comments on: Standby Not Ventilating!

By: Jennifer

Jennifer — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 15:07:16 +0000

I am finally reading your postings – what a story. When I clicked on the first pictures of Ellie, but eyes immediately welled up. I then remembered being in the hospital with Donovan the first time and Holly came to visit. When she came in and saw him hooked up to all the wires her eyes became red and leaky. I was very surprised when I saw her face and asked if she was okay. Allergies, she told me. I actually believed her. I told David about it later and asked if he thought they could have been tears. No – he dismissed it out of hand. Why would she be crying? Now, years later it’s so clear to me. When you’re a parent and your baby has something like this to overcome, you get tough. You aren’t totally aware of it when it’s happening, but little by little you gain strength. You get stronger because your baby needs you. Above all, you are your baby’s advocate and protector. You two are knights in shinning armor. You are so strong. Ellie couldn’t bet better protected if she had a fire-breathing dragon at her side. You may not even realize it, but take it from someone who’s been (thankfully) out of practice for four years, you have tremendous strength. I am inspired.

And what a great idea to be blogging the story like this and staying connected with everyone who is pulling for her. It creates a history and gives you something to focus on. I remember sneaking off to the bathtub in our room to cry when it all got too hard for me and I had to get away from the beeping and monitors. Sneaking off to read postings is a much better idea. You are such great parents. I love the spaghetti game. Ellie is going to sail through the recovery process on your incredible positive energy and love. You guys rock. Even if I don’t get to post, I am thinking of you and sending strength your way. I only wish I could send you some food too. Hospital food gets pretty old after the first day. Of course that didn’t stop me from eating it. When I discovered I could order as much food as I wanted I actually starting gaining weight even though I was just a few days postpartum. Stay away form those pudding cups! Lots of love and positive energy. I love you guys.

By: Keith

Keith — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 14:24:02 +0000

Ellie you just keep on kicking and screaming girl! Glad to see less “noodles”. Our thoughts are still with all of you.

By: Marissa

Marissa — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 13:03:33 +0000

Amazing!! What a difference from the previous photos. Hang in there guys- our thoughts and prayers are with you.
-Marissa, Michael, Henry D.

By: Cassie

Cassie — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 12:47:54 +0000

Our prayers are with your family. Love you guys.
-Cassie and Bobby

By: Jane & Steve & Jack & Dan

Jane & Steve & Jack & Dan — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 10:42:51 +0000

JACK: Its brilliant to see that Ellie is doing fantastic. I know it will continue being great with GOD on Ellie’s side. I hope we see you soon!!!

Jane: Be brave. Seeing our children suffer is terrible, but she is doing well and the difference between the two pictures marks her progress. We are praying for you all & will check her progress with you. This is an excellent record that Ellie will be access in the future – lots of love

By: Auntie Alice

Auntie Alice — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 10:31:39 +0000

It’s hard to type–the tears in my eyes just blur it all up. I can’t tell you how wonderful it is to see that tube out of her throat. What a huge milestone! I’ll bet you guys never thought you’d be so happy to hear a her yell! Go Ellie! Go Ellie! Just BREATHE! Keeping the faith, keeping the prayer chain going here in C-ville. Auntie A.

By: Cherie

Cherie — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 03:20:29 +0000

What a beautiful sight to see those little precious legs moving around!!! Ellie has shown so much strength and it is quite obvious that God has BIG plans for this little angel. I am praying for you all constantly. Braeley said to tell you that she has been praying as well and that “God always answeres my prayers so I know that our Ellie’s will be able to play together soon”. Thanks for the updates….
Love you so much, Cherie

By: Patrick

Patrick — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 02:29:27 +0000

I completely dig that it’s difficult to see her miserable, but it’s definitely a good sign. The progress that Ellie’s made is absolutely fantastic…

By: Julie and Gregg

Julie and Gregg — Fri, 27 Oct 2006 01:51:03 +0000

I see that Sandie is not too far away (the ever-faithful friend and companion)! Ellie looks great..she’s quite the trooper:) Thanks again for all the updates and pictures–these are priceless tidbits of information that help the Panko International Fan Club make it through another day of cheering and praying. Have a good night and remember that tomorrow, Ellie will successfully jump over yet another hurdle! Love you guys, Julie and Gregg

By: David

David — Thu, 26 Oct 2006 23:33:04 +0000

Awesome. Ellie deserves ice cream at every meal for 4 weeks. She deserves a shiny red convertible on her 16th birthday. Just remember–miserable and unhappy means she’s healing. Stay strong tonight.