Saturday, July 7, 2012

I'm still here.

Hello to all my faithful friends! 
Thanks so much to those of you who are still reading this, though I've been a really big slacker lately.  I guess I kind of have a fear of repeating myself over and over with the same things.  And lately, it's just been the same ole' thing...
Time is passing by like I never imagined.  I am still seeing my amazing counselor (whom I love).  She's been a tremendous help to me these past months.  I'm so glad I started seeing her when I really didn't think I needed to.  Because I definitely needed to. 
Also, I met up with another mom in Baton Rouge, LA who also lost her baby girl at the age of 2.  She lost her baby 13 years ago due to medical issues as well.  So I was able to hear her story and see where she is right now (which is a very good place).  She was also very helpful to me.  I felt like she could actually relate to me and actually mean it when she said she knows how I feel.  She said that the sadness isn't going to go away... and that I will never ever stop missing my baby.  But one day, this physical, aching pain in my heart and soul will stop hurting (...because I promise you that the loss of a child is an actual, true and physical pain).  I can't imagine it going away.  But it was nice to hear her say that it might one day stop hurting.  And that one day, this guilt I feel for everything will one day go away.  Because the guilt is sometimes worse than the pain. 

My days consist of good days, okay days, and bad days... and lately, a good day can turn into a bad day in the blink of an eye... or vice versa.  I just never know what can spark up a meltdown.  I know meltdowns are good.  And I know that letting things out is good.  Right now, I just can't bear looking at pictures and videos.  They make me so incredibly sad.  So unexplainably sad.  
I know one day that I'll be able to look at those videos and smile and think about all of the good and happy times we shared together... but right now, they just make my heart hurt more.  
I miss my baby so much. 


I had dinner with Dr. Defusco this past Thursday night.  We've been trying to get together for months but she's just been so busy.  Finally, we got to see each other and catch up a little.  She had called me about a month ago to tell me something very special that I haven't shared with you guys.  
Dr. D won System Physician of the Year at Ochsner Hospital this year. 
(I know, I know... so well deserved, right?) 
She said the hospital recognized her for the amazing work she's done (not only for Tripp, but of course for every other one of her patients). 
AND get this... they spoke about Tripp and I at the banquet as well.  
I can't think of anyone in the world more deserving of this award than Dr. Defusco. 
I am so incredibly proud of her. 
And I told her that was Tripp's way of thanking her for everything she did for him. 

Some other good news... My sister is in town.  She's here for about 3-4 weeks until they have to go to Montgomery, AL... and then they will be stationed in Valdosta, GA. 
Her husband Mike has to go back to North Dakota, though, so we won't be seeing him for a few more weeks.  But I do get to hog some sister time!!

Tomorrow, we are leaving for Gatlinburg, TN.  We go at least every other year with the family for vacation.  I love it.  I've always loved it.  But the last time I went was with Tripp when he was about 3 months old (on our way to Cincinnati Children's).  So as with everything else in my life, it will be just a little bittersweet...  knowing he won't be with us this time.  
I am looking forward to spending the week with Stephen and all the family, though.  
They'll be lots of bonding time:)

Please continue to pray for my peace.  
I know where my sweet baby is... but it doesn't help the pain. 
I love you all very much. 
Thank you again for the unending support you've given me through the past years. 
I am so blessed. 

But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness."  Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9



Love, 
Photobucket

115 comments:

  1. Courtney, You truly are an amazing person. I do not know you, but feel very connected to you. Your story is very inspirational. I love that you continue to post. Never feel that you are repeating yourself, what you are feeling is natural and normal. We all are here to show you support and love. My heart breaks for you. I will continue to pray for you and your healing heart.

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  2. oh Courtney, thank you for sharing your heart and for giving me a specific prayer request. thinking of you dear friend

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  3. So glad to hear of your progress Courtney. It may not feel like it, but this post shows some incremental progress. I don't doubt your pain - physical, mental, emotional...and guilt, however undeserved it is. I continue to think of you and wish you peace. I send you love from Canada.

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  4. Courtney, it is so, so good to hear from you. Please don't stop letting us know how you are doing. Sweet baby Tripp is always in my thoughts, as are you. I'm glad to hear you're going on sort of a vacation. Tripp would be happy that you are searching for peace in your life, lthough I know it will never be total peace. Please allow yourself time to "heal." I know that you will never be totally healed, but Tripp would want you to be as happy as you can be. Allow yourself some happiness, my friend. Tripp is watching over you. May God bless you with his comfort and peace. Much love to you and yours.

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  5. I am amazed by your strength. As a mother of 4, I can't fathom your endless pain. You are a unbelievable!! I will always think of you and sweet Tripp in my everyday life.

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  6. My love is sent to you. My children are practicing meditation & we often talk of your family & Tripp. If you ever want to visit Baton Rouge just for fun, please let me know. I am a nurse, too, & would love to just shop at the Mall of LA, or whatever, to meet you & just help a day go by for you. Making new friends, for friends multiply our joys, and divide our sorrows. ;)

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  7. You're in my thoughts and prayers everyday Courtney! I can't wait to see what God has in store for you! I think you are doing amazing during this difficult time. So happy you will be spending time with your sister! It's really good to hear from you and about the progress you're making! The people around you are blessed to have you in their lives. Thanks for sharing.

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  8. I am proud of you for the work you are doing to heal and the acceptance you have that you are not perfect and don't expect yourself to be. I wish that guilt would leave you... guilt is something that brings us down and gives us nothing in return. I thank God each day for my most recent counsellor. They truly are a blessing. Thanking God you found yours too. Please remember you are in our prayers. May God bring you as much peace as possible as the days continue.

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  9. I just visited your blog last night, wondering how you are doing. Tripp, you, and your loved ones are always in my prayers. Peace can be measured in moments... I hope that your peace goes for ever longer stretches until your sweet baby's face only brings you a tender smile. I wish for your anguish to subside. Love from Connecticut... Tracey

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  10. continually praying in Birmingham, Al!!

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  11. I think of you often Courtney. I hope and pray you continue to have faith and feel the peace in knowing Tripp is smiling down on you with so much love. I hope you feel that love always. God Bless. The Terry's from CLayton, NC

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  12. I pray for the pain to go away but for Tripp's memory to last forever. Sending love and prayers from North Carolina.

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  13. Still loving you and still holding you up, Courtney. Praying for you -

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  14. still praying for you all. hope your sister time is great and you have a good time with your family in TN.

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  15. Your blog sounds better and you sound more at ease with yourself. Tripp would be very proud of you. As always, I look forward to your posts and I'm glad you decided to write. In fact, I was thinking about you guys today and just wondering how you are doing. I do not know how you feel but I empathize with your loss. Please know that you and Tripp are still thought of with love and affection.

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  16. My daughter just asked me today if I had heard anything from you lately.. Glad to hear from you.. I want you to know that I miss him too.. I always loved his video's with him laughing and shaking his head when you asked him DO you love mommy and he'd shake his head and do his giggle.. I'm keeping you in my prayers.. You try to hang tough although I can't imagine that pain you have..
    Nancy

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  17. Courtney, I am right at 18 months (on Wednesday) from when my son died. I just wanted to tell you the overwhelming pain gets better. I'm still in a phase where I look at pictures or think, "I have a dead child," and it literally takes me breath away. However, the deep debilitating pain has eased up. I just wanted you to know that. Big hugs to you. Thank you for still writing.

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  18. Wonderful to see a new post! Always praying for you Courtney. Bless Dr. D, how awesome for her to receive such recognition (and well deserved)!
    ~tracey

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  19. Courtney, I've never commented on here before because quite frankly, I've never known what to say. Just IMAGINING what you're going through makes my heart ache in unimaginable ways. I am truly sorry for your loss. But I decided to comment tonight because I wanted to share a sweet story with you...

    As I was reading your entry tonight my 2yo was looking over my shoulder. When he saw the pictures of Tripp he gasped & said "Oh no! Baby!" I explained that Tripp had passed away & his Mommy was very sad...To which he replied "No Mommy. Baby no ouchies." I know that he cannot possibly understand what has happened. But maybe, just maybe, God let Tripp pass on a message :)

    We will continue to pray for you, especially while you are on your bittersweet family vacation!

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  20. Your sister will love Valdosta. We were stationed there before Boston. So many good people. I miss it every day. We may have a house available for rent if they need one.

    We pray for you every night. Even though we've never met you are in our thoughts and prayers every day. May God bless you and keep you and grant you peace.

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  21. Thank you once again for sharing a little bit more of yourself. It is great to hear about your connection with your counselor, and of course to see some more pictures of Tripp.

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  22. Continuing to pray for you Courtney.
    <><

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  23. Thank you for updating us! My coworker and I talk about you and Tripp like we're all old friends. You are in our prayers, keep on keepin on mama!!!!

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  24. You still amaze me Courtney. You can repeat and repeat as many times you like, and I will still be here reading your words and praying for you. Sometimes I can't even breathe when I think about something happening to my son (21 months old), so to go a thousand steps beyond that and think about what you have gone though, is something I can't even begin to grasp. Continued prayers for you and your little butterfly. Enjoy TN!

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  25. I'm still praying for you and will never stop! I know I've said it before but I'm going to say it again! I hope to be half as amazing as you are!

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  26. Love you, sweet Courtney! Still praying for you here in TX.

    Laura

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  27. You are the most amazing woman I have ever seen and would love to meet in person one day. Though I don't have a child with EB, I do have a friend that does. She too, is an AMAZING woman like you. It was a pleasure and honor to read all your blogs. I sometimes I feel like I'm walking the walk with you. I pray for peace in you heart and your soul.
    Lots of hugs and Love coming from Indiana
    Stacey H.

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  28. you are so sweet Courtney! we love you and of course will continue to support you through anything you do in life. You truly are one amazing person! with a beautiful, amazing family!

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  29. So happy to hear from you. Praying for time to heal your broken heart and give you much needed peace about Tripp's life. I was excited to hear you're heading to Gatlinburg - it's just up the road from me. I hope you have a wonderful vacation.

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  30. It's always good to hear from you, Courtney; I think of you so much and wonder how you're doing. Tripp is also never far from my thoughts; his is still the first that comes to mind whenever I see Elmo. Thank you for continuing to write, and never worry about repeating yourself because I - and surely everyone who follows your blog - is here to lend a listening ear to whatever you have to say! <3

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  31. Praying for you. <3 ((Hugs))

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  32. I still read your posts. I don't know you in person. I hope things get better for you. I am a mom of a special needs child and that is how I relate to you.

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  33. So glad to hear from you Courtney. I will always keep Tripp in my heart because we do share a birthday. He was such a wonderful child. You are so lucky to be his mom. There is nothing so special as a mother's love.

    Hang in there,

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  34. Sweetie I still think of you so so often and your sweet Tripp. I am so glad for your network of support both near and far, in person and via the computer. You and Tripp are angels!

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  35. Always thinking of you & praying for you!

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  36. So glad to see a post from you. It really helps to meet someone who has been in your shoes and I am happy the woman from Baton Rouge is in a good place.

    Guilt? What do you feel guilty about?

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  37. Wow!!! I am speechless and you touch my heart in so many ways. I can only imagin what you must be going through and pray for you every time you pop into my head!!! God will never forsake you and through Him you will be able to push on!!! I know at time you are mad, frustrated, hurt, sad, happy, and everything in between and nothing will ever fill that void, but it will get easier to deal with!!! We love you and loved Tripp to pieces even though we never "actually" met, I know God had a reason or brining you and Tripp into our lives!!!! Love you and I will continue to pray that you find piece and love for yourself!!! Try to enjoy the time you have with your sister, family is such a wonderful gift God gave us!!!!! Much Love From Texas!!!!

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  38. You never cease to amaze me! Your strength and courage are truly beautiful! I hope that one day the physical pain will go away, until then take every day the way that you know how. Know that all of your friends on here love you too and wish only the very best for you.

    Hugs from Chicago,
    Chrissy

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  39. praying for you, sweet Courtney. You are loved dearly.

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  40. thank you for continuing to share you journey with us Courtney. I still think about Tripp often and am so glad you are getting some good support and really allowing yourself time to grieve. He is such a special little man who got the most incredible mama imaginable!

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  41. Prayers for you Courtney & happy thoughts of Tripp. Wishing you many blessings. Thank you for all your generosity. :)

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  42. Repeat away! Healing is such a process and, I hope I can speak for all of us readers when I say, we are honored to be on this journey with you.

    Still praying for you up here in Minnesota!

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  43. Definitely still praying for you! You are so special and strong!

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  44. Courtney, I'm so proud of you. You are so real and honest and raw. My prayers will continue daily. You are loved and treasured. Thank you for keeping up the courage to continue this blog. I read them faithfully and think of you so often. I'm praising God for his faithfulness to you thus far. He will continue to carry you daily and hold you close till that glorious day you will be reunited with your precious boy in heaven. Love you girl. Keep taking one step at a time. No one expects more.

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  45. Praying for a peace that surpasses all understanding. Thinking of you often. You are so strong Courtney, I'm so proud of you for keeping your eyes on Christ and pushing forward. Glad you are liking your counselor. I can't imagine trying to keep all your emotions inside. I will continue to pray for peace & comfort. Also praying for safe travels as you leave for family vacation. LeAnn Turner

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  46. Courtney,
    Your love for Tripp and your strength in your journey as his Mom is awe inspiring. As a Mom of two grown children, you make me want to hug my kids a little more often and just a little tighter every single day. Love and prayers to you and your family, and most especially for the gift of Tripp's life.

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  47. Courtney,
    Your love for Tripp and your strength in your journey as his mom is awe inspiring. As the Mom of two grown children, you make me want to hug my kids a little more often and a little tighter every day. Prayers to you and your family, and most especially for the gift of Tripp's life. Thank you for sharing him and your story with all of us.

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  48. Love you Courtney and sweet Tripp! Praying for you all the time. Enjoy your vacation and know that Tripp is with you in every child's smile you see!!! God bless you.

    Donna from Virginia

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  49. We're still here too. The woman you met sounds like such a blessing for you, to see into the future and know that it will be okay, different and bittersweet, but okay.

    Much love.

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  50. Still think about ya'll often. Will continue to pray for healing for your family. God Bless you all.

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  51. You are so loved Courtney~ I think of you often and have been praying for peace in your little heart! Enjoy Brittany and have a wonderful getaway. Tripp is always with you, he wouldn't be anywhere else. What a sweet little angel he is!

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  52. Courtney....You are amazing. *hugs* I have so many other thoughts i cant get into words. *hugs* Hugs and kissed to lil angel drummer boy Tripp

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  53. Your friend is very wise. I lost my baby de to premature birth. The missing never goes away. I have people ask me how I made it through. I just say you just do, what else am I supposed to do die? I check your blog and pray for your family to help you all.

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  54. So glad to read a new post from you. And that you got to meet a mom who might be able to give you a hopeful glimpse into your future. And that you are honoring Tripp by living life and being with your family. It doesn't mean you are forgetting him at all. Blessings to you and your family.

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  55. So good to hear from you, Courtney. It sounds like your life is very full, and in may ways that surely helps to keep you sane. You have such a talent for writing--it would be hard to imagine not wanting to hear what's going through your head, even if it seems repetitious to you. Keep moving forward--enjoy the upcoming special time with your family. Hugs to you and to your angel, Tripp. Peggy

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  56. Courtney:
    I, like all your readers, am always delighted to hear from you and learn how you are doing. The care and affection we have for you has not ended. In fact, just Saturday afternoon (yesterday) I spoke briefly of your and Tripp's story to some friends of mine who were here for dinner, and how touched I was to have "met" Tripp and how precious it was to see the devoted care you gave him. One of my friends recognized Tripp's name from a news story. So even up here in Fort Wayne, Indiana Tripp is known and his example of living has had impact. God bless you with a safe trip and a time for more healing. May God guard your heart, mind, and emotions with the precious gift of peace He so sufficiently provides.

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  57. So Glad to see you blog!You and Tripp have and always will be in our prayers!I pray you find peace, joy , and Love! Your story and sharing your journy with us during the good and bad time have blessed so many. You've helped me grow as a mom and a christian!Remember your past but know God is sure to have a beautiful future for you when your ready and the time is right until your in heaven hold that special lil boy again! God bless you!

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  58. You and Tripp have touched my life so much. I can't even begin to put into words how empowered it makes me b/c it has helped me figure out how to fight for my son. He has a rare chromosome disorder called Emanuel Syndrome (ES) and some days I grieve the life I had planned for him that he won't be able to do bc of his ES. But most days I find myself just thanking God for picking me to be this special boy's mother. I just want you to know how much you and Tripp mean to me. I look at his precious pictures and cry just thinking about how hard it must be to continue living without him. I know that the majority of kids with the syndrome my son has are taken from this earth much earlier than the parents and that realistically I may also have to bury my precious son and it helps me to read your blog. Yes it makes my heart ache and I physically hurt when I even THINK of actually going through what you are, but I admire your openness and truthfulness about how you feel. Thank you SO much for sharing your sweet baby boy with us. I continue to pray for you.
    Melissa

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  59. (((Hugs))) praying for you always.

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  60. I lit a candle for Tripp in the ancient Cathedral de Notre Dame in Rouen, France last week. It looked so beautiful with all the other candles in such a holy place. x

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  61. Dear Courtney,

    I still think so much about you...

    and wish for you to be happy again...
    Thank you so much for sharing your life...

    Little Tripp truly inspired me... and he is a true angel... and you are an amazing mom...

    Lot of Love from Germany

    Andrea

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  62. I'm so glad you have found someone who has gone before, and who truly understands your pain. What a blessing for both of you.
    It brought tears to my eyes to read your post, but even I can see that you are healing, just a little, but it's there. Tripp is always going to be such a big part of your heart, even when you get to the same stage as your new friend.
    I don't fully understand the guilt factor yet, but I have the potential to find out. Genetic disorders suck! :/
    Please don't apologize about not writing so much. There's a season for everything. God bless you dear girl.

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  63. I was just thinking about you and Tripp earlier this week. What a special bond you both have. I'm so glad you met up with someone who gave you some hope that you aren't going to be in this physical pain forever. I know it is not the same, but someone told me the same thing at my younger brother's funeral and that was about the only thing I remembered from all the condolences...I needed to hear that SO much because I literally felt like someone had opened up my chest and left my heart left open to air as it hurt so much. Sixteen years later I still miss my brother but the pain has left and I remember the good times. I know my circumstance doesn't compare with losing a son, but I hope, in time, the pain goes away for you too. And also, the guilt you feel is so very normal. I guess it comes with death...that too, shall pass. Will always keep you both in my heart.

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  64. I just stumbled upon your blog and I seem to remember your story from the tv a while back. I'm so sorry to hear this! I will definitely keep you in my prayers.

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  65. So many people have been touched by your lives and this world is a better place because of you and your much loved baby boy who now plays with Jesus. Thanks for being you!

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  66. I still think of you and prayer for you often.

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  67. Courtney, I've kept Tripp, you and your family in my prayers. It's so nice to hear from you.
    I'm happy to read you have sister time. That can be so healing. My daughters try at least once a year to have sister time. I pray you both make happy memories to cherish for a lifetime.
    God bless you and your family.

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  68. Dearest Courtney: Glad for the update. So happy that you are still talking to someone about how you are feeling. It really does help.
    I am sure you will do just fine, it just takes a little time. Be patient and remember that so many people are praying for your comfort and peace. The worst part is over and only the best is yet to come. Love and Peace Leah and Tabby's Nana

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  69. I think of you everyday and continue to pray for you!!! Hugs my dear friend!!!!

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  70. You are in my thoughts and prayers every day. I hope you have a great vacation. Hang in there xo

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  71. Dear Courtney,
    Why do you feel guilty? You are the best mommy ever, you devoted your life to Tripp, you spent every second next to him and I remember the post that Grammy wrote, "Tripp lived because of YOU!"
    I am glad the counselor and the other mom are helping you, you deserve it.
    Lots of Love from Spain

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  72. Sweet Mommy!!!

    If it can bring any small measure of solace, Tripp and you are so loved and lifted daily by so many...

    You did not have to share your story with us all and you do not owe us any updates now, and yet, you freely give us the chance to see true GRACE in your loving care for Tripp, then and now.

    You continue to inspire, amaze, and prove that God's Love ripples mightily through your earthly journey!!!

    Ever~praying!
    Take care, Kim

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  73. Hi there! I've commented on your blog a couple of times, and have been praying for you guys for well over a year - Tripp is only a couple of months older than my daughter. I live right outside Valdosta, GA. My husband is a pastor here. If your sister needs anything, please feel free to giver her the email address attached to my profile. And we're still praying for you. Grief is definitely a strange processes, especially when the journey isn't linear, sometimes you circle back to the same hang ups even after you think you've dealt with things and moved on...

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  74. Just the other day i was wondering i don't get to see any updates from Tripp's page and today i read this.I am from Kerala, India and i chanced upon ur blog at a time when i was heartbroken. I had just given birth to my li'l angel and on the fourth day i got to know she had CHD- very large VSD, ASD, DORV and PDA. she had to be rushed to a hospital 5 hours away. after a brief time at the hospital, i was back home. i was heartbroken. i didn't know wat to do.i was down in dumps and i frantically searched the internet to know more about her condition and its cure. thats when i stumbled upon ur blog. i read and read Tripp and yours incredible journey. i kept crying until there were no more tears. it was like finding a new friend who has the same pain as yours. you both have touched my heart so much and i believe u both were sent to me by God at a time when i needed solace. i was worried about caring for my daughter - will i make some mistake, will i be a good mom. u showed me that the way to be a good mom is loving ur baby to the core and having faith even when things seem impossible. Tripp is an amazing boy and believe me when i say this, i think of him every single day.and if he has made such an impact on someone who is miles away, u r one lucky mom to have had him. The biggest fear of any mom who has a child with a serious illness is the fear that they might outlive their child and u have had that fear come true. I can imagine the pain, sorrow, anger and guilt u feel. Tripp is in a better place and out of pain and i can imagine him drumming away and giving kissies to our heavenly father. after he left whenever i think of him, i get the image of a beautiful garden with lots of flowers and butterflies flying, Tripp with his drum and other lil angels, smiling and running around. i love Tripp so much and in his brief time on earth he has touched mine and many others' hearts. I can't thank you enough for sharing him with all of us. I know u r heartbroken and long to be with him, but take one day at a time and soon, as you said, u will be able to look at his picture and videos and think of all the good times u had, happiness replacing the pain and guilt. I wish i could hold ur hands and share your pain, but since i cannot do that i am sending my love and prayers up for you. May God bless you always

    Love,
    Roshny Thomas

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  75. So glad you felt like posting. We've been worried and praying for you. Grief is a strange journey, and I don't know how to help or what to say, but I do know to pray. I wish I didn't feel so helpless. You have never met me, but I know we would be friends cause of how deeply you feel.

    Hugs from Texas!

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  76. Sweet Courtney, how could you ever feel guilt? Please remind yourself that you made you filled your son's life with all the precious joy and love you had to give. I'm sending positive thoughts your way as you continue to grieve. God bless.

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  77. Sometimes words are so inadequate and a hug speaks so much. It is good that there is another mother with whom you can connect, another who has known this sadness, but she has survived it and she will get you there too. So glad you will be with your sister for a while. I am sure seeing her will help. Dear one, why-ever would you feel guilt? You were and are an amazing Mom to Tripp and I cannot imagine that there could be one way in which you failed him. God is always with us, even in the bad times, maybe even especially then. Know you are not alone, ever.

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  78. I'm always so glad to hear from you. You are an example of love to me. I miss your little man too. I will never forget about him. My 6 year old daughter loves watching videos of him. Every time I see Elmo now, I see Tripp dancing. Thank you for sharing him with us. Much love to you.

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  79. Courtney, I am so sad to read that you feel guilty however I know it is a part of grieving. You are one amazing mother. I know we can all tell you this but until the grief starts to subside you will feel all the stages of grief. It takes everyone a different amount of time. I just want to say THANK YOU so much for continuing to blog when you feel like it is a good time because I for one worry about you and am so happy when I see a new post from you. Please try to take care of yourself and I hope you have a good trip and a good time with your sister. Thanks again and my thoughts are with you daily. Tammie -Vermont

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  80. Courtney, thank you for letting us know how you are doing and sharing a picture of your beautiful Tripp. Next time you touch base (unless it's too painful, of course) please share why you feel guilty. You mentioned that in your post tonight and it made me so very sad thinking you feel that way. You are such an amazing mom who gave everything you had. Your strength is such a gift to so many. Just a thought, if you want to share that. Have a wonderful vacation with your family.

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  81. I am happy that you are doing a little better. Enjoy the time spent with your sister and have fun on your vacation.

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  82. Courtney,

    " . . . that the power of Christ may dwell in me."

    God's power/grace within us is manifested clearly when we are weak. Weakness makes us realize that it is not by our own strength and power that we act, but by God's power/grace within us. God's life within us is revealed when we continue to do good, to believe, hope and love, even when weighed down by weakness.

    Courtney, you are a witness to God's power. You saw it in the way Tripp handled his illness, in the love you and your family indulged him with and in the positive responses toward Tripp by so many people.

    Don't feel guilty Courtney. You loved and continue to love Tripp tremendously. Love is the absolute best we can do -- it is the fulfillment of the law and the prophets -- and you did it exceptionally well.

    Benjamin

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  83. Hey there!
    Just got on line to blog and was delighted to see a post from you! I've been missing hearing from you, and hoping you are doing okay. Sounds like you are. I get the volatility a day can have... like a yo-yo! Happened to me yesterday at Sea World. I was having the time of my life watching the dolphin show, and the lady next to me says one thing, and in the next second I'm crying! HATE when that happens! Right there with ya. Yeah, the physical pain subsides, as does the guilt. I promise. Thank you for posting. We miss you in cyberspace! ;-)

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  84. We love that area in TN. I hope you can have a good time. You're sweet baby woukd want you to.

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  85. Still praying for you & <3 Tripp <3 will always be remembered in our home. We love you <3

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  86. Glad to hear from you!!! You are in my prayers everyday!!!
    Love and Peace to you!!!

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  87. I agree, you are amazing! I was catching up on some reading this weekend and read your short story in Reader's Digest. It was very well written but I wanted to write and tell them there was so much more to the story. So much more to tell about Tripp and you. Thank you for sharing your and Tripp's life with us. God loves you so much.

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  88. Have you ever seen the TLC show called 'The Boy Whose Skin Fell Off'? It is very moving and shows the bravery of the people who suffer from this disease.
    Information on the film can be found at
    http://tlc.discovery.com/fansites/boywhoseskinfelloff/about.html

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  89. Dearest Courtney, you are still here and we are all still here. People who love you and your family so much, who want to support you and pray for you. I don't think anyone minds if you repeat yourself at all; what you are experiencing is grief and you are not being abnormal in any way. Unfortunately one of the parts of bereavement is guilt, even from someone like you who did nothing but give love and care to that little boy every day of his life. Tripp's road cracked and broke but he was never alone.
    I want to recommend a book for you, if and when you feel able to read. Its call 'Choose to SEE;A journey of struggle and hope' by Mary Beth Chapman. She is the wife of Steve Curtis Chapman, christian singer and song writer and a few years ago their five year old daughter was run over and killed in their driveway by her teenage brother. I could relate to this as my dearest friend lost her two year old son in the same way only the driver of the car was her husband and Lucas' dad.Both times tragic accidents but a terrible feeling of guilt from those two men. Mary Beth writes painfully and eloquently of her journey of grief and healing but she talks about the reality of heaven in a way that is spine tingling. Would be good for friends and family to read too.
    "Courage doesn't always roar.
    Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, "I will try again tomorrow.”
    ~ Mary Anne Radmacher ~
    With much love always
    Jo (UK)

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  90. Like many, my heart still aches for you and today's post was particularly hard to read. PLEASE don't get me wrong...I love hearing from you, (check nearly every day!) and you've got a lifelong follower in me, but I'm just so sad that you hurt so deeply. And of course you do, what momma couldn't imagine your loss, even though we can't...does that make sense? When I see pictures or video of your sweet boy, I want to scream for you, how unfair it is. At the same time, like you, I know where he is and that he is safe, healed and happy. Again though, it’s still not fair and that doesn’t ease your pain. I pray for you often that God will heal your heart and mind, at least to the point that the joy and happiness you SO deserve, can find its way in. You’re a lovely young lady and the most perfect momma Tripp could have! Thank you for sharing your heart, your baby, with us. I hope God wraps you in our love. God bless sweetie!

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  91. Glad to see you are still seeing your therapist. It will be a great help to you. I think of you often and continue to pray for your peace. Much love!

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  92. Please don't feel guilty about anything. You couldn't have possibly done more than you did for Tripp. You, and your mom, were and are the most incredible mothers and did a million times more than I can imagine most humans being capable of. You should not be feeling guilty, you should have peace knowing that you were absolutely amazing and Tripp loved and appreciated you with all his heart. I'm sure that he's trying to tell you, from heaven, that you rocked and to please not feel badly about a thing. You are such a sweetheart and so giving and unselfish. I hope that the aching lessens with time and that you can feel peace and not one tiny bit of guilt. You deserve that and that's what Tripp wants, too.

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  93. Please don't let yourself feel guilty about anything. You and your mom were and are the most amazing mothers. I can't imagine many other people being capable of giving as much as the two of you did. I'm sure that Tripp loved (and still does) and appreciated you with all his heart. If you could hear him from heaven, I'm sure that he's trying to tell you how amazing you were and that he wants you to feel peaceful and happy. You couldn't have been more wonderful and you deserve that. I hope that the aching lessens with time. It all seems so unfair, but please, please, don't let feelings of guilt be there at all. You are the last person to need to feel that. Hang in there.

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  94. You take all the time you need between posts. We will be here if it takes a year. I am so happy to hear you are doing okay. I cannot imagine what you feel and I pray each day that I never will. I know that it hurts me when I see his pictures and videos, I miss your son so much and I never got to meet him. His light will burn bright in all of our hearts for the rest of our days. God Bless you and your family Courtney. Thank the Lord for people like you.

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  95. Thank you so much for continuing to share with us. I think about, and pray, you often and wonder how things are going. I know things are a long way from wonderful, but I'm glad you have some good support and love in your life to help you walk through this painful loss... I"m sure Tripp is cheering you on from Heaven :-)

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  96. You write when you can/feel like it. We are all here still. We admire you & pray for you. And we are all trying to understand where you are at. We do not hold that against you.
    Tripp is making a difference even in death & that is Awesome.
    Hang in there & try to enjoy vacation.

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  97. Courtney,

    You continue to be on my mind and in my prayers. I am praying that someday soon you will feel God's loving peace in your heart. I know this takes lots of time. As I watched my son and daughter lose their first baby a boy named Cale. It was four years on May 11th. Although they nor our family will ever get over the tragedy of his short life and death, they are doing better. They have been blessed with a little boy through foster care. That child saved all our lives. God works in ways we cannot imagine sometimes.

    I hope you find some peace and enjoyment with your family in Tennesssee. Such a beautiful place filled with God's presence.

    Much love and many prayers, Lauren

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  98. Keep going honey. Somedays that is a win. You will, you really will, make it. Just think, everything that you do, every place you visit, every little bit of joy you can manage to let into your heart -- baby Tripp can have those things too, through you. He wants you to be happy until it's his turn again. You need to have a lot of great stories to tell when you get there.

    You are special, and you have nothing to feel guilty about. Ever.

    Still praying for you,
    Tonia

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  99. Hey Courtney, Katie from the Love Bomb Team here, and I found myself thinking of you today. I wish there was a set time, a time you knew things would stop hurting, but I don't think they ever do. The feeling him Tripp being out of pain helps, but not enough.

    I'm thinking of you and praying that you find the peace you need to carry on. Stay brave, Stay strong.

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  100. Courtney, I love your posts and your genuine honesty. Tripp is smiling down at you. You are so loved. Have a wonderful time with family.

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  101. I know you know that our faith unites us in mind and spirit...I have those long-time friends and family members who, when I call them, will say, "You were on my mind...I was just going to pick up the phone and call you." The same happens in reverse...I'll be wondering how my far-away friend is, and she'll call me. The Lord keeps you and Tripp in my heart in this way as well. Even though I've never met you, I am connected to you in mind and spirit. It seems the Lord wants me to continue to pray for you. Every time you come to mind I check your blog and you've just posted a message...EVERY time! I hope you are encouraged knowing that God keeps you in the hearts and minds (and prayers) of many. The Holy Spirit knows our needs even before we know them, and He intercedes for us. He hears your heart before you even cry out. I hope you can imagine many of us each sharing just a little piece of your sorrow...just at the time you need it...so you can bear it. May God continue to bless you and keep you and make His face to shine upon you...and may you sense His great love and comfort as He promises those who mourn...one day at a time.

    "He that is thy friend indeed,
    He will help thee in thy need:
    If thou sorrow, he will weep;
    If thou wake, he cannot sleep:
    Thus of every grief in heart
    He with thee does bear a part.
    These are certain signs to know
    Faithful friend from flattering foe."
    -from The Passionate Pilgrim
    <><

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  102. Courtney I think of you often. I pray for your comfort and also for your wonderful family. You are such a great Mom, your Mom has to be so proud of you. You are a class act!

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  103. I'm from Brazil and father of two girls. 2 and 8 years. Thank you for sharing true love.
    Once I started reading your blog, I am more attached to my family.

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  104. Thank you so much for continuing to write when you can and being so honest about your feelings. My best friend lost her 3 year old son 7 months ago. Your words help me understand her feelings and support her a little better.

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  105. I thought of you and Tripp tonight. My 19 month old went to bed clutching her little toy elmo in her hand. I would like to think that maybe Tripp is somewhere and spies that little Elmo! She has only a sliver of the medical issues that Tripp had, perhaps even just a hair rather then a sliver. She has just become interested in Elmo and I can not help but think of the two of you. Hang in there.

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  106. I lost my son when he was 2 months old (heart issues) and I remember well how good days could become bad days in a flash. I also remember not being able to see videos and pictures. I would actually run from the room if someone accidentally started a video on the computer or if his pictures would pop up on the digital frame. When I was having a good day, I wanted it to stay good, and the memories were sometimes just too overwhelming.

    But it does get easier. You will always miss him and you will always carry this burden, but one day you will find that you don't mind carrying it. I pray that day comes soon!

    Much love!

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  107. God bless you on this life journey, sweet lady.

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  108. I hope you enjoy your time in TN. We love Pigeon Forge and will be going again end of August. It's so beautiful. Thanks for posting on how you are doing. It's been 4 years since we lost our little girl and I still cry when I look at her pictures and videos. But I think of it like this... I have those memories forever even though she is not with me. Although it is painful I am so glad to have something of her. Not everyone is so lucky. I know you cherish what you have to remember Tripp. One day if you decide to have more children you will be so thankful for all those pictures and videos that are so heavy on your heart to watch. That's what I remind myself of daily that even though it's hard now my two boys will get to know just a little about how beautiful their sister was and a little about who she was..

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  109. Courtney, thank you for sharing, just where you are today. Humbly, I thank you for staying with us, even in your continued grief. Love and blessings to you xoxo

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  110. I know that you have written in other blogs that you love your son more than he will ever know, but God knows and God makes sure every day that he knows too. He felt your love with every tender kiss, with every song you sang, every hour spent in your rocking chair and every tear shed. He knows........

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  111. Thank you so much for keeping posting and updating us in your continuos grief. Please never worry about repeating yourself. We care about you and we never tire of hearing how you feel. When I look at Tripp's pictures and videos I very often cry and smile at the same time. I cry because I feel it is so unfair that he had to suffer so much and run so early in Jesus' arms and smile because he's so amazing, so touching (I adore when he plays drums to a perfect tune and when he smiles) and so precious. When I look at Elmo's videos with my kids I always sing them also to him. It must be super hard for you, but as other mums have said, I am glad you have these memories to cherish. I know it is not the same thing, but I have the pictures of my little Angelica, who fell asleep in late pregnancy. I find still quite hard to look at them again, though I manage now to speak about hear without immediately breaking in tears and rather with a great tenderness and gratefulness for her gift. However, I like to know that the pictures are there and that one day I can show my younger kids a tangible sign of her presence. I am glad your counselor is helping you and that you met this other mother who can fully and truly understand you.I keep praying for you and you family. Lots of love,Talia

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  112. I have never commented before but am inspired by your story. My son had a horrible accident at the age of 2 that left him with an anoxic brain injury bout a year and a half ago. He survived but is not the same boy that I had before the accident. He too has a trach and g-tube now. Anyways i wrote a post awhile back entitled moments. I understand completely how in a second your good day can turn into bad in the blink of an eye. Those moments come less often then they used to but they still come. If you want to read it here is the link. http://www.zachandtessie.blogspot.com/2012/03/moments.html
    All my love and prayers!
    Tessie

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  113. Hi pretty girl... haven't been around much on my blog, made a new one that I'm adding you to as soon as I sneak out of here. I wanted to retrieve your blog so I could continue to follow it.

    Please know, I still pray for you, think of you often. Livy

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  114. Tripp is so dear to my heart... I didn't know him personally just as so many others reading your blog didn't but I love him and your family like y'all are my own. I wish I had the chance to personally meet him but one day I will be so lucky to meet and play and sing with him in heaven!! I have an almost 3 year old and when he was 16 months old he swallowed a wooden puzzle piece the size of a half dollar piece (if not bigger). It was lodged in his throat for over 2 hours. He was able to get little air but could not swallow. The ER was able to go down his throat w/forceps and pull it out. But those 2 hours were the worst 2 hours of my life. So I can only imagine how the pain of loosing a child feels. I know that I carried the weight of "what if" and "it's my fault" for a very long time! You and Tripp have so many people here to support and love y'all. You said your sister was moving to Valdosta, GA. I actually live about 30 minutes North of there. Maybe we will cross paths one day!!! Stay Strong and Keep Smiling!!!

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  115. I don't know you, but Tripp was a darling, and I'm crying with you and prayed for you, dear little momma. For God's comfort and presence to be so tangible to you. His strength to see you through the aching. Hugs from afar! Amy

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