July 26th, 2010 - From Stephanie

As I begin day 16 of our journey with our beautiful boy, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for all of you who have reached out to us in the greatest time of need in our lives. A world that at times appeared small and cold to me has blossomed into a warm and loving community I am privileged to be a part of. So many times these past two weeks as I've stood by Sullivan's side unable to touch him, talk to him, hold him, and soothe him as he silently cried, I've gone to a dark place in my mind. This must be what hell is like, I've cried. During these moments of weakness the only proof I had that I wasn't indeed there were your loving words of encouragement and your dedication to prayer for our baby through blog entries (thank you, Angie!), emails, facebook messages, texts, and cards. Every evening on the way home from the hospital I read them, and they get me through the night until I can return in the morning. I feel less alone because of your support. We don't know how we'd eat at night if it weren't for those individuals who have been feeding us dinner. We are so grateful for this! Your words and knowing so many prayers have been sent up on Sully's behalf has sustained us throughout this painful time. I hear your sincerity and I feel your prayers. All I can say is thank you, and keep them coming...They're working! It's been a rocky road just getting to this point, but Sullivan has been stable for 4 days and surgery looks like a strong possibility for Wednesday. I apologize for not writing or responding to you sooner, but every moment we have has been spent by our baby's side and with doctor's during the day and with our son, Leo, at night. Although we've come this far, we still have a long way to go. Please keep checking in and praying for a successful surgery and a swift and uneventful recovery!

Grateful and Hopeful,

Stephanie