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6.23.2012

Getting Settled in Atlanta


http://youtu.be/Xz0U9i5jgeQ  new You tube video


Well, we are here!  Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite is where we will embark on our next big adventure.  We are getting settled into our new living quarters and will spend all weekend with doctors and therapists doing evaluations.  Hopefully by the first of the week we will get an idea of how long they think Lucy will need to be here.  I snapped a few pictures of us exploring the hospital yesterday and thought I'd share them.  The hospital is very strict about what I can photograph (which stinks) so I won't be able to have many "action" shots of Lucy working hard.  I'll try to update each day on her progress and include as many pictures as I can.  You may notice that Lucy is in a wheelchair.  Until she is a lot more steady on her feet, this will be her mode of transportation.  I'm not sure she really needs it, but its hospital policy.



Left to right 2nd row:
--Erik and Lucy at the putting green
--In the lobby there is a huge display that is interactive and educational.  I need to ask why, but all over this hospital is a fish theme.
--The Koi pond outside

Left to right bottom row:
--"The Zone" is an activity center with games, Wii, etc.  We haven't been yet, but we hear its really fun.
--In the garden picking blueberries

And just for my girls....

The gift shop is amazing and has more art supplies than imaginable.  However, I am making a trip to Hobby Lobby today because as much as we love Melissa and Doug I would go broke trying to keep up with Lucy's art addiction right now.  The picture below shows her diving in to her new stash.


All in all its been a good first 2 days here in Atlanta.  Thanks to two new friends, Christy and Stacy, we now know a couple of smiling faces around campus.  We were pretty spoiled at St. Jude.  Even on our first day we knew tons of people who worked there.  And at LeBonheur, well, they are all like family.  Thanks to all of you out there in Atlanta land who have come to know our family over the last 18 months I have lots of people to call on for help.  I can't tell you all how much I appreciate the emails that you have sent.  I have read them all, although I have not responded.  Please know that if we get into a bind, I will be contacting Fran, Gloria, Sarah B, Roel, Kristine, and the list goes on.  I am so humbled that so many of you would offer help to people you have never met.  I have to tell you, after a few weeks here a home cooked meal might be just the ticket.  But right now we are ok.  We are getting settled and are adjusting well.

Thank you for your continued prayers.  If I might ask, please add Elena to your prayer list.  She is my new friend Christy's daughter and she has had a relapse of a rare form of Leukemia.  I know they would really appreciate some extra prayer.

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65 comments:

  1. Another Atlanta person to add to the mix! I live very close to CHOA and would love to help you guys out if you need anything :)

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  2. Just doing evening prayers and praying for Lucy. Will add Elena to the list.

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  3. We are just an hour or so outside of Atlanta if you are in need of art supplies. We wouldn't mind making the trip at all. Welcome to our city. I really do hope you like it. It's quite busy, but we really do make the time for what is important.

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  4. Sounds like a great place. My prayers are flowing for Lucy.

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  5. Thank you for the update! I've been praying for a smooth transition for all of you. I can only begin to imagine how hard it is to get to know a new place, new people, a new team for Lucy, etc... but the Lord will put all the right people in your lives during this journey. I just know that HE will. I love the photo of Lucy giving her dad a kiss. Melts the heart! She looks like she is ready to craft and decorate her room! Prayers for all of you as you transition and strength for Lucy as she embarks on this new path. Her smile is so wonderful to see. Keeping you in prayers.

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  6. Thank you for the update. Lucy looks wonderful. I'm thankful you guys made the trip to Atlanta safely. My prayers continue for your family, especially for Lucy's healing and God's protection of Ella and Jack. May God's mighty healing hand, grace, and mercy be upon both Elena and Lucy. Praying for strength and comfort for Elena's loved ones as well.

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  7. Thank you sweet Kate for keeping us updated on Lucy! I am so thankful that you are in a great place and that Lucy is looking so good. It just reminds us over and over how awesome our God is that we serve. He is holding her in the cleft of the rock right now and I just pray that His presence continue to cover you all during this journey. He is the healer. He is the miracle maker. He is our God.

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  8. I don't know you and your family but I anxiously wait for an update on Lucy every day and the progress that she is making, I heard about this little girl when I went to visit my daughter in Atoka Tn. , that really touched me and been praying since, and I know that He can do all things and is in control. That first picture of her sitting in the wheel chair today is so cute with her little feather cap, even her color has such a healthy glow to it , she looks like she has never been sick, so happy for her and your family. God has certainly blessed her already, every day is a new day.

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  9. Hey Kate! I used to be a nurse there (before I decided to stay home with my kids for awhile). If you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask. Some normal food, a friend, or someone just to take you out to lunch, I'd love to come meet you all. We continue to pray for you all. Just drop me a note on my blog or email me at sarahantweiler@yahoo.com. Anything...just ask.

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  10. Glad you are getting settled in! My brother and family live in the Atlanta area in a little town called Roswell which is the same town as one of my Mom's cousins live in which she doesn't live too far from my brother.

    Amy

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  11. Thanks for the update. Love seeing that smile! My prayers continue for healing, strength and good things happening in Atlanta. I can't wait to see the good things that God has planned for Lucy.

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  12. Kate, This is such a blessing. I also feel for your family to be torn apart from each other for who knows how long. Lucy looks sooo good. What a little fighter. Lucy you rock. Keep up the fight.

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  13. It's amazing to see how much better Lucy looks compared to just two weeks ago!! It sounds like you guys are in the right place! Hope you experience some major healing in Atlanta!! Prayers continue for you and are starting right now for Elena!!

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  14. Kate, If you offer a mailing address i'm confident that Lucy would have art projects galore sent her way! I would be delighted to send some to her and i'm sure others would love to send Lucy a little gift as well. How sweet would it be for Lucy to have art to share with all the kids sharing her journey to recovery in Atlanta. We keep praying! Lucy, keep on fighting, creating and dreaming~! Prayers from CA

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  15. Look at that sweet girl going to town w her art stuff! Fantastic. Love u sweetie!

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  16. Lucy looks amazing! Praying for her to make great strides while in Atlanta.

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  17. Kate & Erik,
    When we heard that Lucy wasn't doing well and we thought the worst, my family and I cried and hugged each other and prayed to God for his mercy. I prayed for Lucy and asked God that if its his will, to take Lucy with him then it was his will. Pam asked God for a healing miracle. Pam has always has more faith then I, and again she looks that she got her way, again. Because later, as you wrote Lucy seemed to be better. Lesson learned, never under estimate a woman or the power of pray. Kate, a day doesn't go by without Pam, Christyn and I praying for your family. Matter of fact, I hold our Pam and Christyn a little harder and a little longer each time I see them. Your experience with your child has really made me think about what really is important. I knew all along that my family is my life but, after reading your blog it reminds me that God is in control. With your help I now have more patience, meaning I don't sweat the small stuff anymore. Also, with your help I feel I am closer to Jesus than before. I admire your strength in telling your story and want you to know that you and your family are loved. I wish more people would tell each other that they love them because we are not here forever. Nobody is promised tomorrow. So since we haven't seen you guys in awhile. We love you and your family, remain strong in your faith. God is good.

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  18. I am another Atlanta peep and live about 15 minutes from the hospital. I am at Hobby Lobby all of the time and pass by the hospital at least twice a week. Please don't hesitate if you ever find yourself in a pickle! Prayers to you daily. You have one amazing little girl!

    Whitney
    Unterwagner-triplets.blogspot.com
    Whitwall77@hotmail.com

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  19. Hello, Kate! I am a close friend of Julie Clement Cochran and live in the ATL area. I have been saying lots of prayers for Lucy and your family. I would be happy to help in any way or bring you and your husband some dinner. We have had our son, Liam, at Scottish Rite and he was so well cared for. I can't wait to see how Lucy does there! Heather L.

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  20. I LOVE that sweet little smile as she rolls herself down to you! I know your heart is so full! Know that we are continuing to pray that God does exceedingly, abundantly above all that we could ask or think through little Lucy.

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  21. I am so glad to hear you have settled in well. Lucy is such a sweet spirit and she blesses my soul when she is happy. I will continue to pray for your family.

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  22. I am so glad you are settled in and have many people offering to help you out. That is awesome! Continuing to pray and pray and will also include Elena in my prayers as well.

    Blessings,
    <><

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  23. Hi Kate,
    Is there any way we can send cards to Lucy (and you) in Atlanta? I am just so excited for this phase of Lucy's recovery. I know she will continue to fight and work hard to improve her stamina and physical condition. I am just so proud of your little girl. I'll continue to pray for her, and will also be praying for you, Erik, Jack, & Ella as you adjust to this new normal temporarily.

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  24. Columbia tn is praying for Lucy and your entire family!

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  25. I have been checking regularly and was delighted to open this post, especially to see how well Lucy is doing. Every time I see a smile on her face I know my belief in miracles increases. We all look forward to your daily posts. Do you and Eric sleep in the room with her?

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  26. Hi Kate,

    Thank you for the update. I was happy to see a new post was up. I must say Lucy goods GREAT...Healthy & Happy in your pictures!! Thanks for sharing the pictures. I know Lucy will do well, she is such a little fighter!!! I loved the picture of her in her bed with all of her new craft stuff. Did Lucy get our little gift before you guys left for the new hospital? I hope so but if not, she will get it when she comes back home.
    I hope this finds you well and less overwhelmed!!!

    Think of you & pray for Lucy often!!!
    Love,
    Jenn & Sydney xo

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  27. Welcome to Ga! I'm a lot farther south from Atlanta, but hope your stay in Atlanta is positive. Our son travels to CHOA for appts as well. Your family continues to be in my prayers. If you need anything, hollar!
    Also, can Lucy be sent cards at CHOA or some address? My two would love to make her some cards to brighten her day.

    Kim O
    sweetiee1@gmail dot com

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  28. I am not worried...She will be running the hospital soon...Keep your faith, get some rest, ask questions you need answered...and of course call me if you need me...Love you all dearly...Aunt Tracy

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  29. I must second what Karen said. Lucy does look better than she looked a couple of weeks ago. My daughter just last night came in asking me again about Lucy and I told her that she was doing better and she said... "Mom, I am glad that Lucy is doing better and I am still praying for her!" We will add Elena to our prayer list too! Thanks for keep us updated on Lucy's progress and look forward to reading more exciting stories of what God is doing in Lucy's life! Go Lucy Go!

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  30. Still lifting the entire family up in prayer and will add your special request. Jesus has the healing hand.

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  31. Praying for Lucy and you during this time!

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  32. Praying all goes well with this trip!! Lucy looks wonderful in these pictures! Such an amazing sight after all she has been through.

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  33. I, too, would LOVE to send Lucy a package! I cannot tell you how often you guys come to mind, and you are most definitely being covered in prayer at our house here in VA. I stumbled upon your blog about 6 weeks ago and have been praying for you all ever since. I cannot imagine a day in your shoes, but know that you are loved by many people who have never met you!!

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  34. Glad you all are settling in well. I just can't get over how great Lucy looks! Praying for her to get stronger every single day and for Ella and Jack to be comforted by loving g-parents while you are away. Praying for Elena as well.

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  35. Kate ~ I've never commented before but have prayed daily for y'all for quite some time. We live in Dunwoody - it takes us 6 minutes to get to scottish rite (unless, of course, there's traffic :) ). We would love to bring you a home cooked meal, art supplies, whatever you need. Here's my contact information : kathiechipman @ yahoo.com. Or 404.993.9004. The Bible calls for us to love one another - and having been there myself I know it's challenging to accept so much love & support. But you continue to walk this journey with such grace. My boys are 8 & 9 and would love to play with Lucy if she'd like a friend!

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  36. Go home. Spend time as a family and spoil all three of them rotten. xxxx

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  37. Lucy is looking like she's so much improved, it's incredible! Hope you find many more friends in Atlanta and that Lucy's stay can be a productive and short one so that you all can spend more time together at home.

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  38. What a wonderful update! I love the video of Lucy roling - you can see the determination and pride on her face. Please take care and know that prayers continue from Elgin, Illinois.

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  39. Kate, my family and I are relocating to the Atlanta area in a few weeks (from Memphis) so I will have to get you my new contact info in case you need somebody local for ANYTHING!! Although I am not sure how well I will be navigating in Atlanta traffic LOL!!!! I am on the St Jude Heros team for the Marathon in Dec. and I am more motivated than ever to get out there and start my training (running the Full) Best Wishes to you all as you embark on a new adventure, but hope it will be short so you can also return home soon!!!

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  40. Oops I mean I am on the Heroes Team for Lucy!!!! Go Lucy Go!!!

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  41. Go Lucy she looks so beautiful on that picture.God works in different ways in different time, He's in control.

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  42. Lucy looks beautiful! God certainly has been listening to all the prayers for her. Thank you for keeping us updated. I, too, would love to send a goodie to Lucy if you could provide an address. We send prayers to you and Erik and your family at home.

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  43. Welcome to Atlanta! I read your blog and pray for Lucy daily. Now when I do so, I can look out the window and know that Lucy is just down the street, getting stronger and stronger. (I work just down from CHOA.) If you guys need anything while here in Atlanta, I'd be happy to help out. You name it and I'll see what I can do.

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  44. God is good! Continuing to pray for Lucy and your family.

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  45. I agree - we would love to send some arts & crafts projects to Lucy! We are so happy to see her looking & feeling so well! The fact that she is feeling well enough to do arts & crafts is simply wonderful. Is there an address at the hospital you can share with us Kate, to send her some things?

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  46. Kate I agree with the others about sending Lucy a care package if you could post her mailing address. People in my Sunday School class were asking about Lucy this morning and were so happy to hear of the miracles God is doing in her life. We are still praying in Florida!!
    GO LUCY GO!!!!

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  47. I would also send her a package from Las Vegas, please let me know if you will accept gifts I am so happy for you all and think of Lucy all the time :)

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  48. Hey!

    Im a nurse at CHOA at Scottish Rite and graduated from Union University. I do not have you email (it may be on here but just wanted to get a message really quick).. Anyway, I am Amy Christopher (work night shifts so if you never need anything,let me know.

    Amyschristopher@comcast.net

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  49. I'm so glad to see yall got settled and everything is going good. go Lucy go...god always is in contro and I know it will only get better from here.

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  50. Carrie~ from S. FloridaJune 24, 2012 at 11:55 AM

    Wow, Lucy is looking AmAzInG! It's so great to see her making all kinds of arts & crafts. She's a blessed little girl to have so much love and support from her family, friends, and virtual friends from afar. I will continue to pray for her continued healing and for all of her family. God is Great!!! :)

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  51. Praise the Lord for that sweet smile on little Lucy's face! The video was absolutely amazing...for her to go from pretty much being in a coma to wheeling herself in a wheelchair is a pure miracle of God! Praise His Name for answered prayers! Still praying for sweet Lucy and your family!

    Love, Hope, & Prayers 4 Lucy,
    Allison

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  52. Love Lucy's cheeks in the top picture! They look so cute and round!

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  53. Prayers and best wishes for Lucy.....and family! :)

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  54. What is your address at the hospital? Would love to send her some coloring books and other supplies. Go Lucy!

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  55. Bless your heart for keeping us all up to date with all you have going on! So good to see Lucy be able to manage to wheel herself around after all that sweet baby has endured. Still praying for that big miracle....seeing her walk out of that hospital for good and to have your family reunited with this nightmare become a distant memory....Praying for continued strength for you and Erik and most of all for sweet Lucy! This will be hard for her and she will have days when even simple tasks will seem daunting. Go Lucy Go....we are all with you in spirit! You can do this!!

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  56. Kate, I'm confident you'll meet many special 'angels' here in Atlanta too. CHoA @ Scottish Rite is a fabulous place with so many caring people. I've posted several messages to you...and mean these words as truly as any other I've written to you. If you need ANYTHING while you are here (a homecooked meal, craft supplies, helping finding your way around (it can be confusing!)...please let this stranger help. I'm emailing you my cell/email address.

    Many prayers!
    Karin

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  57. Just wanted to let you know that Scottish Rite was our stomping grounds with Elizabeth when she was going through treatment and they are absolutely wonderful!! We loved all of our nurses and doctors there. Are you staying on the Aflac floor? I'm not sure if too many of our favorite nurses are still there since it's been 2 years since we've been there but I do know that Sara B. and Andrea (Andy) are both still there and we absolutely loved them!! They are so sweet and warm and loving. Elise was the child specialist there when we were there and if she's still there, I know that Lucy will love her! She would always come and paint or color with Elizabeth. She's great with crafts!! She did a fantastic job at making Elizabeth feel very special.

    Glad that you guys have gotten settled in. We're praying for you and please let us know if we can help you in any way. I know we're strangers to you but we're family in Christ and we would be happy to bring you a home cooked meal!

    Speaking of which, if you are on the Aflac floor, they have different restaurants from the area provide dinner for the families every Thursday night and I think sometimes on Tuesday's for lunch, too.

    Let me know if I can do anything at all for you! Praying, praying, praying!!

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  58. Emily Hearon ScurryJune 24, 2012 at 7:30 PM

    Hi Kate, I've been following your blog for a few months now (stumbled upon it through Megan @ In This Wonderful Life). My home AND office is within 2 miles of CHOA-SR campus. Even though we don't know each other, I would love to bring a meal to you. I know you can only eat hospital food and takeout so many times. Or, if you need anything in Atlanta, I would be glad to help. ehearon@gmail.com Praying for your Lucy!!! Isaiah 41:10

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  59. KATE!!! Oh my gosh...I work at CHOA!!! I'm sending a message to your facebook account now with my info...
    Been sending many prayers your way. Lucy looks awesome pushing that wheelchair!!!

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  60. Kate, could you email your "new digs " address, please ? I'd be honored to add to Lucy's crafting addiction. My email is Libby_Wheeler@comcast.net. Hugs, good wishes and prayers to all .

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  61. I think I commented once before, but I want to comment again -- my SIL has anaplastic medullo and we live SO close to CHOA! I would love to help out in any way possible. I am literally just a few minutes away, in Dunwoody. I would love to connect with another medullo family. ho lly_mc millan (no space when you type it out) at yahoo dot com.

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  62. I am thrilled to see Lucy well enough to enjoy the activities available to her in her new home away from home. Prayers won't stop, for Lucy, and for all children everywhere who suffer like she does. God bless y'all!

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  63. Kate, thank you for all those wonderful pictures- my favorite is the one of Lucy and Erik Kissing. I am so glad y'all made it safely to Atlanta and I hope the rehab is all you wished and have been praying for. I am truly amazed at Lucy's progress and will continue to pray for more miracles for your family. I hope that you and Erik will have some peaceful moments as Lucy gets stronger. Also praying for strength and endurance for Lucy as she starts on this rehab journey; what a special family you are and I am so honored to be able to read your posts and keep your sweet family in my prayers.

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  64. Kate, Lucy looks amazing!!!!!! I would love to send a card to Lucy to encourage her and let her know that I am praying for her. I know my granddaughter who is 7 would love to make a card for her also. I guess if I send the cards to CHOA addressed to Lucy she will receive them. I don't want to invade your privacy but I think I would need your last name in order to do this. Also, would love to send some crafts to Lucy. I will continue to pray, especially for all of you during this difficult time of separation.

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  65. CHOA is a great place! We just moved to Michigan a year-and-a-half ago, but before that, we spent the first 38 years of our life within an hour of Atlanta. Our daughter has ongoing medical needs and has gotten a great deal of care from them. She always looked forward to all the fish....although I am not sure if there is a purpose or if it is just a fun theme....but she couldn't wait to see them when we were there. :-)

    Lucy continues to be in our prayers. What a blessing to see that sweet smile on her face after all she's been through! If we still lived there, we would "be there" for you, but for now, we will keep on prayin'!

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