April 15, 2008. Not a day goes by that I don't think about what happen one year ago today. I never had the courage to blog about our accident before today. I seldom talk about it except with Marlin, it has affected me deeply. One year ago today I was moving the car out of our garage, I thought all the kids were in the house at the table eating lunch. I was wrong. Then I heard the scream. The scream a mother never wants to hear. I ran in the house and called 911. They were here within minutes. Katelyn was awake and screaming so they thought she was "ok" but still air evaced her to Maricopa County Medical Center where she would spent the next 4 days in PICU. Katelyn had several small bruises on her lungs,a bruised spleen, a bruised/swollen foot, scraped face, arm and back. After all the ER tests where done she was taken up to PICU and on the way in the hall she got to see all the relatives (9) and friends (11). As they wheeled her by she said "Hi" like nothing was wrong. The next 48 hours was one of the most exhausting events we have ever had to deal with as parents. Along with family members we were with her the entire time she was at the hospital.
We all hear stories on the news about accidents with kids and just can't believe how it could happen. I was one of those parents who always thought "that would never happen to me". It did. I have learned not to judge people because it can happen to any of us. Marlin received his Melchizedek Priesthood on Sunday and our accident was on Tuesday. A true test of Faith. The events on April 15, 2008 have changed our lives forever. We have stronger Faith and we are closer as a family. (and the kids are always in the car when I back up) I am not sure if Katelyn will remember anything that happen so this blog post is for her. Katelyn we love you so much. Thank you for being such a sweet and loving daughter. You are a great example to all of us.
9 comments:
WOW Chris...I had no idea! What a scary thing! I'm always so paranoid about that but still know it could happen!
Thanks for sharing...
After hearing of the accident on the news, I had a sick feeling that it was someone from the ward. I called Melissa who confirmed it. You were in our family's prayers from the minute we heard of your tragedy. What a miracle to see the Lord's hand in protecting your sweet Katelynn from what could have been an even more tragic experience.
Hugs,
Kelly Norton
That is one of my worst nightmares. I am so glad Katelyn is ok. Wow that is crazy how events work out. Thanks for sharing.
I remember this day. I live next door to Shanen and across from Trish and they told me about it after I saw the life flight. I have been on one too many of these calls in my career and can honestly say that you are the only family I know of that has had such an amazing outcome.
You must have had angels and more on your side!
It gave me chills to read this post! good for you for putting it out there!
Chris and Marlin, We can hardly believe it's been a year since this happened. I can still remember exactly what I was doing when I got the call from a very upset and crying Mike telling me what had happened. We will certainly not ever forget this day and we are so thankful that it ended with a happy ending and with darling and oh-so-sweet and tough Katelyn walking out of that hospital with the minor injuries she had sustained. What a blessing and a miracle!!! We know there were many angels watching over you all during this entire experience. This shows TRUE character from you, Marlin and your kids to turn this difficult situation into a faith-increasing lesson, as you learn how much Heavenly Father truly loves you and your family. We are lucky to call you our dear friends and we love you guys TONS!!!
Okay Marlin, one more thing, just know that I am always on the hunt for another back-up blanket for sweet Katelyn!!! Hee hee
I too remember this day. I remember Josh calling me at school and I said a quick prayer on your behalf. What great miracles and a true test of your faith at such a pivital time in your life.
You will be glad you blogged about it, and Katelyn will be glad to read about it one day and remember exactly how you felt.
Such a scare for you - I'm sorry that had to happen. Thank you for sharing such a personal experience. It not only journals it for her, but helps each of us be more careful. Love you!
Chris, thanks for your post. That accident was the reason we became friends. I felt very protective of you that day. You are so right about how an incident like that changes you. As moms, we are trying our best. You are great mom and it was truly a tragedy that was probably meant for you.
I think of you every time I back my car out, because it could happen to any of us, and certainly it happened to the best of us.
Thanks for sharing. I did think of little Katelyn that day. We are so happy she is here.
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