Hi, my name is Noah Abner Clark. During my 20-week ultrasound, I was diagnosed with a severe right-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Essentially, my diaphragm failed to fully form, and thus, many of my abdominal organs (namely my liver), herniated into my chest which in turn inhibited the growth of my emergent lungs. The average survival-rate for babies specifically like me is around 50%--a proverbial coin toss. My mom and dad thought that perhaps in-utero surgery would be best, but they ultimately decided that for my case, surgery after my birth would give me even a better chance to survive.

In order to find the finest care, my parents consulted with or actually visited many far-away places, including San Francisco, Houston, Cincinnati, Philadelphia, Denver, Baltimore, and Seattle. Ultimately, however, we decided to travel 3500 miles from home so that I could be born and live at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital in sunny St. Petersburg FL. My doctor is Dr. David Kays and my nurse is Joy Perkins. You should pray for them.

My road will be long, one potentially wrought with many setbacks and "close-calls." I'll do my best, but I would appreciate some much-needed help. So if you would, pray for me. And if I don't make it, still know that it is "well with my soul."


Sincerely, your pal,
Noah

P.S. You can learn more about what I'll be experiencing if you watch "Adam's Story"--a video my folks found while surfing the web. Right-click HERE.
P.S.S. Check back regularly to see my blog updates.

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

OCT 26, 2016--SURGERY DAY!






Good Morning--a wink to all of my friends out there! Dr. Kays and I consulted, and we felt that high-noon (12 PM EST) would be the hour that the knife drops! I was originally scheduled to undergo surgery in the operating room, but after I spoke with Dr. Kays, I convinced him that he should do the surgery in my bedroom. That's right, their giving me VIP service--the operating room comes to me! Although I have become pretty stable, things like movement, temperature changes, and equipment changes could cause me to become otherwise. Honestly, I wonder if Dr. Kays wanted to do the surgery in my room simply so that he could have a view of the ocean while he was operating on me. Yesseree, the hospital was so nice that I was placed in a room with an ocean view! 

In any case, everyone give Dr. Kays and his team a prayer, a nod, and a pat on the back. They truly are first-class. He did mention that he and I need to try our best if we're going to get through this. I told him that I would offer nothing less.

My friends, I am looking forward to opening my eyes again in a couple of day so that I can see you. But until then, enjoy your blessings. Your pal, Noah.

14 comments:

Anonymous said...

Oh wow! what big news that is!!! I am delighted. Dr Kays believes in you just like we all do. Keep on turcking Noah. Myself and my family are all rooting for you and your family. D x

Jenn Ryan said...

Praying praying praying!!!!! Love from Lynden!

Unknown said...

We love you Noah! We are praying without ceasing. You're an amazing little guy - already winking at the camera. :-)
Lord Jesus send your heavenly angels to Noah this morning. Wrap him in their wings of protection. Give Dr. Mays and Nurse Joy your wisdom and guidance. We are believing great things from you Lord!

Don & Donna

Janet said...

Praying and praying some more. We know that you'll do your very very best.

Kyleen said...

Praying for you Noah and Dr. Kays and the entire surgical team and your family!

Unknown said...

Baby Noah, We will be thinking and praying about your surgery today. Hang in there little buddy we are all pulling for you. Love you and your family so much.

Aunt Snookie & Uncle Grant

The Danielson Family said...

We are praying for you Noah! You can do this and your Almighty God is holding you up all the way!!

Mary said...

You got it buddy! You can't count how many people around the world are thinking and praying for little Noah! We can't crowd into the hospital room but you can imagine..we are there with you. We are not stopping and we're praying for Dr. Kays, nurse Joy and your mom and dad. They are all amazing!!
Take it easy, let Dr. Kays and his helpers do the work and because we pray and God loves you, know God is doing His part! Let us know how you're doing when you can okay! We love you!

Anonymous said...

Hi Noah! What an amazing little guy you are!! You’ve got lots of folks in Texas sending prayers your way. You are truly blessed to have such an incredible family that loves you so much, they made sure that you got the best possible care to provide you with a fighting chance. I know that Dr. Kays, Nurse Joy, and you are putting your best foot forward today….I can’t wait to see your eyes open  Lots of love and prayers, The Liggett Family.

Stephen & Mildred Broadwell said...

Praying and praying. Post an update after surgery please.

Anonymous said...

We have you all in our thoughts today! Love you bunches!

The Patneys

Anonymous said...

Our prayers are with you Noah and with all the doctors handling your case. Our faith is very strong. God Bless You. Your neighbors from St Pete Beach Tim and Livi

Tiny Hero-Annie said...

Alright sweet Noah! Time to show your big guns and work hard! You, god, and Dr. Kays have got this! We are thinking about and praying for you buddy.

Unknown said...

Hello! I happened upon your blog while googling my sons name, which is also Noah Abner (born 6/15/16) ��. We will be praying for you little guy - all the Noah Abners got to stick together!