In a Year of Turmoil, A Story of Hope

The early part of this year was extremely brutal, with many losses, changes, bad news, and for many months it seemed like it would never end.  Today, I can finally write a story of hope and courage.  For some, it is a miracle.  For others, a tragedy.  But in the end, it is a story of hope.

Earlier this year, I mentioned a co-worker who’s son was in need of a major miracle.  But it would take a tragedy in someone else’s life for that miracle to occur.  Today, I got see the outcome, and I was overcome.  It was an incredibly beautiful moment, and I have tears in my eyes as I write this.

My friend’s son is 10 years old, a smart young man who was fit and active.  There had been no signs of any potential issues.  Back in April, he had a heart attack.  It was discovered that his heart was enlarged, and had to be removed immediately.  He was given an artificial heart (the youngest to receive it, ever), and wasn’t allowed to leave the hospital unless and until he received a new heart.  The catch was that the new heart must come from another child.

This young man, and his family faced every day bravely, facing the truth that he may be the one to not survive.  For all of us, all we could do was hope that God’s Will be done.  We couldn’t hope for the death of a child, any child, but we knew that there was only one outcome without it.

And yes, as it will happen sometimes, another child did pass, and as it turned out was even in the same hospital.  So last month, this brave young child received his new heart.  He was released from the hospital less than two weeks after, was home less than a month later.  Today, after months of prayers and waiting, I got to give my friend, and her son, a very long hug.

I grieve deeply for the family who bears the loss of their child.  I know that part of their child will live on in my co-worker’s son.  I don’t know what is in store for this young Soul who has faced death with amazing courage.  I know that he has an incredible new life ahead of him, and I am so grateful to have been able to be a tiny part of it.