Fate of a child

The last several days I have not really thought too much about blogging. Instead I have been pondering, praying, hoping, wondering, frustrated, confused, detached and then calm...

A few days after my 11th year anniversary I heard horrible news that one of our dearest friend's son, who is 4 and a half years young is suffering from Stevens Johnson syndrome and T.E.N., Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis. The origin of how he got this is unclear, but the reality of this disease or condition is absolutely real. This wonderful child is in an intensive care burn unit in a very famous hospital in NY city, somewhere on the 8th floor, with many doctors, specialists and experts at this child's side. Incredibly, as this child goes through infections, sloughing of the skin, transfusions, and process after process, he is subjected to every kind of sophisticated treatment available in the world today; but no one knows how or what this will do, except that they hope for the best.

I watch as the parents listen, in a profoundly patient manner, the diagnosis, the possible prognosis and what is happening from skin to skin to their child. The parents themselves are medical doctors knowing exactly how or what the "experts" tell them, and they know the most significant truth...that there is no sure answer.

Moment by moment, more experts come by and offer their prayers, support and assistance while they try to unravel the mysteries that this condition has wrapped this child in. Despite all strides in medical science, many conditions such as the one here are unclear, mysterious and without a definite treatment. So what comfort can the parents have in the medical realm, where the best medical training in the country does not equip them for this trial?

The parents...our friends, are the kind of friends we consider as family, the kind that we love and wish for their happiness forever...despite time, distance or growth in this world. So strange that we used to double date before they were married, for dinners, movies, walks in NY city. These are the same people who almost forever ago from now, Pieter and I witnessed buying their engagement ring. The same people we encouraged to have their wedding in Central Park (they did...)

It seems so surreal. Now years later, the only important thing is their child's health; and keeping it together, especially for the sake of themselvers and for their daughter who is the same age as Alec.

I have been praying a lot, having a difficult time in focusing on my day to day frentic paced life while I think about this child born into this marriage that we witnessed as he is waiting for his fate. So many friends, family, strangers, old and young, even those who do not believe are praying so hard for this child. Everyone I know who knows about this has been taken swept up in this plight, hoping that all goes well, praying that despite all odds that he will in fact pull through.

So my blogging stuff has slowed down since I am waiting at this edge for news of his recovery, developments and condition. I only went to the hospital twice thus far, but really wish I could just stay there and support our friends Muni and John. Just to be there for a 24/7 hug, whenever needed anytime. I am wishing that Red Envelope has the gift that has unending Hope in a box, one that can encourage us in our deepest suffering and uplift us into knowing that everything WILL be all right.

For anyone out there, until that special Box arrives, please offer prayers of strength, courage, hope, love and healing.

So Max, my prayers will be with you tonight, dear little one, keep your strength up and continue your fight. We are all eagerly cheering you on...