Be the Change You Wish To See In The World

There is a saying that hangs above my front door. "BE THE CHANGE THAT YOU WISH TO SEE IN THE WORLD" I like to read it as I leave our home. You can make two choices in life. Watch from the side lines as life passes you by or do something active to leave the world a better place. Our family could (and we sometimes do) wallow in our sorrows over losing our son to such a devasting tragedy of a disease or we can seek out activities that will help others along the way. Maybe the outcome for them will be different. Today I am proud to say that we didn't wallow, we were a part of something that could change the world. A change that could change the "hearts" of many people.

Today it was an honor and priviledge to participate in the American Heart Association's Heart Walk. It was a beautiful day, such a perfect fall day. The leaves are just starting to change colors and the temperature was perfect for a fall walk. It was a great way for us to gather as a family to do something good in memory of Jeremy.

We were so honored to walk with two other families that we met at the PICU. It was so nice to have some emotional support along the way. We joined those families in celebration of life. The lives that have been saved and the children who will have a second chance at life here on earth. We were so very thankful that their children were with us today taking part in the Heart Walk. There were other families that we met at the hospital that were not here today, but were held close to our hearts. In addition, I also happened to run into a friend from college, who's son was also born with a heart condition. Their son's surgeon was the same one that worked so hard to heal Jeremy. We look forward to watching these special children grow up and to see the plan that God has in mind for their lives.

We walked in memory of Jeremy. We thought about him and prayed throughout the walk. I felt peace today as I walked the path around the lake. It feels good doing something good and productive in his memory. Sitting around feeling sad all of the time doesn't change anything. My son still resides in his forever home and he always will. His life on earth was short but full. He truly did accomplish so many wonderful things. Choosing activities that focus on what I CAN change on this journey are healing for me.

It isn't visable from the photos too well but we all wore our blue Jeremy bracelets and also a green bracelet for Organ Donation. We decorated the stroller (for the youngest to ride in but he didn't) with blue bows. I wore a sticker on my back forother walkers to see that our walk was in loving memory of our son, Jeremy.

Last but not least we walked in tribute to those medical professionals who work tirelessly to save lives. The doctors, nurses, CNPS, and respiratory staff that so lovingly took care of Jeremy were forefront in our minds today.

The money raised from the Heart Walk will go directly to the American Heart Association. The money will help fund research that WILL save lives. Other families may be spared from feeling the very pain that we feel every day. We were a part of positive change and it felt good. Just maybe . . . in small way, we changed the world for another family.