Friday, July 6, 2012

It was a YEAR AGO (1 Year Anniversary Update)

It was a year ago today that William was diagnosed with e.Coli 0157 h7 which led to HUS (Hemolytic-uremic syndrome) and, subsequently, caused complete kidney failure for 13+ days and the surgical removal of approximately 60% of his colon/lower intestine.

William went from Yosemite Valley, to a clinic, to Madera and from there he was airlifted to Los Angeles (Children's Hospital LA). Eventually he made his way to Kaiser Sunset and then on to Kaiser Fontana. There were many times when we thought we were going to lose little William; updates went from good to bad, and bad to good, sometimes on a daily basis.

It was one year ago that miracles began to happen and healing began to occur, albeit slowly. People came out of the woodwork in support of Will and his family. They were simultaneously worried about William and overjoyed at the love showered upon them.

In time, William's kidneys began to function again, at least partially, about a month after they failed. This was the first sign that he was pulling off a miracle. The doctors were optimistic but cautious at that point; Will's upper intestines were still outside his poor little body but his kidneys were still the primary concern. 

Approximately two months after his initially hospitalization, William was "put back together again" and his kidney function looked vastly improved despite sustaining an unknown amount of permanent damage.


Finally "Baby William" was released from the hospital and after a return a few days later, he has only been back to see his nephrologist, Dr. Tong, for check ups and to say hello.

TODAY William has been told that within 3 months he should be off ALL his medications and should continue to grow and develop like any other child of his age.

TODAY he has some big scars on his tummy that stand as a reminder to us all of what we went through, the faith, prayers, and support we have felt throughout this trial.  And a reminder of the gratitude to God for miracles!

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us and enjoy these sweet pictures of William TODAY!!!!






For a beautiful synopsis of his little life and recovery you can watch this beautiful video.

3 comments:

  1. This brought back so many tears of sorrow and joy. We didn't know Baby Will tell he got sick. We still have never met him, but we did pray a whole lot for this sweet boy. We feel like we knew him. My family and I would check the computer almost hourly to see if there were any updates. If so we would call each other to make sure they had seen it. To make sure they were giving thanks to God or praying for healing. We are so thankful for Gods answer to prayer!!!!!! Happy Birthday Lil Will. We may not know you personally, but we will never forget your bright smile and blue eyes.
    Love, The Sherer Family

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  2. Thanks for sharing this Heidi. I can't believe it's been a year already! It is such great news to hear how well Will is doing. Touching video. <3

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  3. What a beautiful thing!! :) Thank you for posting. I am so happy WIll is doing so well. Sarah and Danny--you never cease to amaze me. You are a wonderful example to me. You blessed those families. You are amazing.

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