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.

Friday, November 4, 2016

NOV 5, 2016--Just Ridiculous!

Good morning to all of my friends out there. I would like to begin this morning by warmly welcoming several of my new friends from France: bienvenue.

But now, let's get to the point: sometimes, you just look and feel ridiculous, don't you!!! Along with keeping me alive, the hospital has many perks: the nurses, my spaceship bed, the ocean view. However, what you see here is simply not one of them. I know Dr. Kays is a great doctor, but I don't think that he is much of a plastic surgeon. Just look at my big green nose. Flattering? I don't think so. Even Gonzo sports a smaller schnoz than me. And my hat? Since when do babies wear skull caps?

I blame my parents for this, especially my dad--he gets all snappy with the camera on my down days. In fact, all the parents do. I have about ninety baby friends on my floor and the floor upstairs, and we all suffer through these daily shenanigans. Its political season, right? I'm beginning to think that the only thing which can combat this type of humiliation is the formation of a baby union, or even better yet, perhaps a baby revolution--Viva La bébé Revolucion!  Now, if I could only learn to walk, much less breathe.

Well, I best be off. But please remember this my friends: if you think that you are having a bad day, at least you don't look like this! We'll be in touch. Your pal, Noah Abner.

4 comments:

Unknown said...

Good Morning Noah! You have to admit, you're looking at your Dad for this shot. Did you ask him to wear at skull cap? You probably should. But you know what, he's starting you early for caps. A cap is a guy thing. One day you'll wear a Seahawks and Mariners cap. And of course, a Giants cap. I'm surprised you're not wearing a Cubs cap! For now, green and orange look great! Your mama is pretty too. I know if felt good to lay in her arms. She loves you so much Noah that her heart beats just as fast as yours. As for this breathing hurdle, we're praying for you in California. Take some time and relax, today is a day full of college football - lots more caps on guys! God Speed Noah!

Donna

Debi Vinnedge said...

Oh my Noah - those of eyes of yours say it all! You look like you are a bit perturbed with all this - and then dad takes a picture? Well just hope he doesn't show it to your prom date some day...keep fighting little tiger - I am praying non stop for you! Love ya!! :-)

Unknown said...

Dearest Noah, I see one beautiful baby. You are a trooper to be going through all of this. Your strength and endurance is awe inspiring. Keep up the good work and thank your daddy and mommy for posting all these photos. Your fans love them. Hope you have a good night tonight. Lots of love and hugs from Aunt Snookie & Uncle Grant

Anonymous said...

From Donna... You still look fab wee man! D x