Life is good…no, it’s great!!! Emotions took over me as we received news this week that Peyton graduated from her cardiologist. This was the last of the big doctors who had been keeping an eye on P’s health since her Nicu days. Because Peyton was extremely premature, she had two holes in her heart. For most children, they close shortly after birth. But, Peyton’s didn’t. While she had some scary moments with her heart issues during the first few months of her life, we’ve really just been monitoring it as she gets older. So we went to Dr. Nicholas this week, crossing our fingers that this would be another doctor to cross off the list.
Peyton was a champ, laying still for the echocardiogram and EKG. And of course she strutted her stuff, walking around the Prairie Heart Institute, flirting with anyone who showed her an ounce of attention. I just watched in awe as I saw my beautiful little toddler look SO grown up. As her doctor delivered the good news, my eyes began to water (and they are as I type this now!). I kept my composure, even though I wanted to cheer and jump up and down. The moment we reached the parking lot, a massive wave of tears began to pour out of me. This milestone was a biggy. As I called Mr. Skry I began to sob, having to pause as I shared the good news, my emotions getting in the way of sharing the wonderful achievement.
It was a bittersweet day for me. My morning began by looking at pictures of my son, Parker. It was July 15th, exactly two years ago, when I was blindsided by Nicu doctors who told me my child needed emergency surgery. Parker was 3 weeks old and surgeons opened up my one pound child to fix his intestines. He survived, but the stress of the surgery most likely caused his massive brain injury. We didn’t learn of his grim diagnosis until a few weeks later. Summer is a tough time of year for me, and July 15th hit me hard this week. Couple that emotion with learning my daughter was a healthy toddler, and it was the perfect storm! How is it possible to feel so sad and so happy at the same time? The rest of the day was quite a blur, going through the motions at work as I proudly shared Peyton’s good news with anyone who would give me the time of day. 
I’m the epitome of a proud parent. I always said that my life wouldn’t be consumed by talking about my children. But here I am, wanting to shout out every piece of good news! It’s because Peyton amazes me every single day. Each time I think she may be taking a step back in therapy or in her health, she surprises us and takes a giant leap forward. I was cautiously optimistic for so long with Peyton’s survival and development, but I think it’s safe to say there is no stopping this girl. She takes on every challenge with a smile (and sometimes a tantrum), and overcomes any obstacle in her way. I know Abby and Parker are cheering their sister on, just as proud as mom and dad.
** This news was too exciting to share with another blog topic, so check back next week as I share some exciting changes coming to “Perfectly Peyton”!
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What wonderful news!! So happy for you all. 🙂
I am thrilled at your wonderful news. I have a feeling Peyton will continue to amaze everyone.
Great news! I can’t imagine the roller coaster you’ve endured. Princess Peyton is adorable. Her pics always have such a charming smile (I know as a mom there are hundreds of untaken pics that show otherwise). Just a hint of orneriness shows, and I love that the most! God bless you all. Sending hugs.
So happy for you all. Peyton is a true miracle and I love reading about your journey of healing and the progress Peyton is making.
amazing what a blessing
That is awesome news…Way to go Peyton. Dr Nickolas is fabulous he was our sons heart Dr. as well.
Hi Peyton we all are so proud of you. Great job keep up the great work.
supper news I am so happy for your family it is a great relief to not have to make more dr. appointments and go on with enjoying all of Peyton’s wonderful surprises and milestones.
What good news! Praise God!
What wonderful news! Thank the Lord for answered prayers.
WAHOO!!! Way to go Miss P!! Congrats on this wonderful news. Prayers are truly answered and you are living proof of the miracles being performed every single day. You make us proud. Keep up the good work.Hugs and Kisses to you, Mommy & Daddy and Riley – too!!
Miss P is a strong little lady..She has a great Mom and Dad cheering her on along with two angels that lift her up. She can’t fail with all her ‘friends’ that love her and are watching her grow! What an inspiration your family is!
What wonderful news so proud of our little princess , so glad that you keep us all posted on your news you are a great person .
Sooo glad for your family’. God dies work miracles!! Give her a big hug from my family.
Way to go Peyton. I, like many others have been following You, Abby and Parker since Your births. Skies the limit, Peyton. How can You go wrong when You have and will Always have Abby and Parker cheering You and Your Parents on? You are So Precious and Beautiful 🙂
Congrats to Peyton! Glad she is progressing so fast!! Keep up the good work Peyton!!!!!
I’m a NICU mom with a tragically similar story. I hear you on the mixed feelings–it is possible to be both devastated by grief and overjoyed by great progress at the same time. It is almost our triplets’ first birthday and our survivor is thriving. It is so hard to deal with the conflicting emotions though. You are not alone!
Hello, Peyton! It’s great that you are finished with the cardiologist. What will you do next?
THRILLED FOR YOU!!!!!! And sending so much love as you hit so many of Parker’s important dates. XOXOXO
Wonderful news. She is a strong little girl. She has accomplished so much in two years.
Great news! Doesn’t sound like anything is going to stand in your way Miss P!
You are an adorable little girl Peyton! The news from your cardiologist is wonderful.
Wonderful news and what a joy see is Thank you for taking time to share with us the good news on Sweet Miss P.