ChloeWatts.com

December 27, 2010

Christmas. What a different experience this year was compared to last! Although Chloe wasn’t too excited about the prospect of going through yet another holiday without being able to eat, we were able to help her turn her spirits around. She actually had a very good Christmas in spite of the non-swallowing situation.

The 11 foot Nobel was decorated just right and Santa provided a lot of packages under the tree. It’s interesting how inventive you can get to make Christmas presents appear when there is nothing to work with other than imagination. Our friends came out of the woodwork as well to help, and, again, we thank you so much. The tree was just $10, and the most expensive gift was probable not much more than that, but everything was well received. We even had a phantom Santa spread some good cheer with four cards for the family under the door. Un-signed but very much appreciated!

Christmas morning was spent at the house and the afternoon saw Chloe and Colin visiting their dad’s house for another Christmas. They were able to play with the new red lab puppy for a couple days. They loved that.

Colin has inspired, at least, two of his friends to get guitars. He intends to be their initial teacher. Rumor has it he might have even inspired his dad to start playing again. Colin sure does like his new amp and British guitar strap. I think those were his favorite gifts. He and Chloe received a mic and cord for vocals also. It will be great to hear them both singing together.

Dana and I were able to spend two full nights together for the first time in I’m not sure how long. It was great to just kick back, watch a Christmas movie and relax. Then we joined friends at a Boxing Day party on the 26th. We used to be regulars there but have missed a few recently. It felt great to be back into what was a remembrance of the past and view of the future.

Tomorrow we have two appointments at Doernbeker Hospital with Beth/OT and Steve/PT. Beth was amazed how well Chloe is doing, however, she still wants quite a few visits before she turns her loose. Steve is working hard to help Chloe swallow again. The last procedure wasn’t the miracle we had hoped for, but it wasn’t expected. What we did learn from the procedure was invaluable however. There is no damage in the area of the esophagus that would inhibit it from, eventually, coming back.

Another part I’d really like to see come back for Chloe is Tears. She still can’t produce any, and I feel they are very necessary for relieving her pain. To see her cry without tears is sad.

When I had to run to FedEx today, Chloe was in the middle of making her Giant Cupcake. This was a gift she received from Mama. When she opened it I felt the entire room warm up and the lights were instantly twice as bright. Seeing that kind of joy is rare but sure welcomed when it shows up. Well done Chloe.

It’s our goal to have 2011, be the year of complete healing. With all she has been able to regain, it’s more than possible this can happen for all of us.

Be well and Happy New Year!
Ron