Baby Jesse

Jesse's Eulogy

2008-07-03T15:50:00.000-07:00

Jesse Caleb Richardson

Jesse Caleb Richardson was a surprise. Right from the beginning he did things differently than other people. His parents had hoped for a child for over 13 years. Extended family members began to plead with Heavenly Father to bless Amy and Richard with a child. Last summer Mom and Dad were surprised to learn that their first effort at in vitro fertilization had been effective—they were expecting a baby. It was in the midst of uncertainty and stress over leaving a career and moving their household from far off Singapore to an undefined location in Utah--circumstances the doctor warned would make it very difficult to sustain a pregnancy.

They settled in this stake, close to family members who were excited to have them near. Amy faithfully took the medications necessary to sustain the pregnancy and located a physician who would take her on as a patient. When she was six weeks along she visited her obstetrician. After examining her, he regretfully advised her that there was no baby’s heartbeat. Disappointed, that evening she and Rich came to Amy’s father to receive a Priesthood blessing. They were assured that Amy was pregnant. Amy returned to the obstetrician the next day to be checked again. After examination the doctor emphatically affirmed that here was no heartbeat, and that all indications were consistent with a 5-week termination. Was there was no hope, no chance? Of course, they could always hope, though he was certain the pregnancy had ended. They made an appointment to return a week later for a final verification. Amy continued to take the hormones necessary to sustain the pregnancy. We fasted and prayed. She postponed the appointment a couple of extra days and waited until she felt it was the right time to return. When they performed the ultra sound, the doctor and his nurse were astounded to hear baby’s healthy heartbeat. It was only the beginning of surprising developments.

Around twenty-three weeks into the pregnancy Amy began to feel sick and in pain, especially at night. Several nights she visited the emergency room in American Fork. In the early morning of December 13, they suddenly realized that she had preeclampsia (toxemia), and that both she and her baby were dying. The only possible helpwould be to deliver the baby immediately. To give the baby the best chance for survival, Amy asked to be transferred to Utah Valley Hospital, where the Neo-natal Intensive Care Unit was prepared to help.

Rich and Amy recount the unanimous gasp of the doctor and several attendants, when they opened her up expecting to find a 24 week old fetus but, instead, saw a baby boy the size of a 20 week-old. Though doubtful that he was big enough for the tubes needed to help him breathe to slide down his throat, they were surprised that they went down with no trouble. He was only as heavy as a can of soda—12 oz; and he was hardly longer than a dollar bill.

Mom and Dad were cautioned that they should not expect the little one to live—that babies very seldom survive unless they are at least 22 weeks along—and this one was only the size of a 20 wk-old. The medical staff began what became a heroic effort to support a boy determined to hold on to life.

The parents sought the Lord’s will in a Priesthood blessing. They were told that their baby was in the Lord’s hands, and that what should happen, would happen; he would live; his care would be inspired; his family should exercise their faith and enjoy him. So they did.

They prayerfully and aptly named the baby JESSE, which means ”God’s Gift”, or “The Lord Exists”; and CALEB, a Biblical soldier and leader known for his fearlessness in the face of overwhelming odds.

On his ninth day of life, the hospital staff told Mom and Dad that Jesse was failing quickly and not expected to make it. "There's no time left for miracles today" the doctor said. They placed him in his mother’s arms so she could hold him as he died. Surprisingly, in moments he began to improve. Quickly they took him back, replaced him in his bed, and tried to recreate the position which had given him relief.

Weekly, and sometimes, daily, Jesse was administered to in order assist his heart, his intestines, his lungs, his blood vessels, his bones, his kidneys, his brain.

Eventually he was transferred to Primary Children’s Hospital for a successful intestinal surgery. But shortly Jesse began to succumb to a persistent buildup of fluid around his lungs. Struggling for weeks to keep him alive, the doctors declared that Jesse’s only chance was to undergo a desperate, dangerous surgery that was not certain to correct the problem. They scheduled for Monday, Memorial Day. The Thursday before, the family united in fasting. On Sunday night the Priesthood blessing Jesse received said that he would not need the surgery. Monday morning the surgeon was surprised to see that Jesse had improved dramatically. The doctor said that he would not need the surgery and that he could be transferred back to Utah Valley Hospital.

Amid the crises, Jesse had some normal family life. Santa Clause came to visit him on Christmas Eve. Dad and Mom and Jesse had their first Family Home Evening, reading the Christmas Story from Luke, quietly singing Christmas carols. Jess received his first two books for his library—two beautiful versions of “The Night Before Christmas.” Rich taped a picture of his dog Chiaro to the lid of his isolette, along with flashcards, and a tiny mobile made of little angels. Toys were propped on the hospital equipment, and new blankets made by his aunts and cousins frequently appeared on his bed. A birthday party was thrown for him every month. He even had his own stereo system quietly playing beautiful lullabies through speakers in his bed. His nurses and doctors loved him and cared for him like his family. His parents were there every day, talking to him and singing to him. His relatives, friends, home teacher, and Bishop came to see him, and to give him blessings.

But by June, Jesse needed those administrations almost every day. On June 9 he was dying, filled like a little balloon with air that had escaped his lungs and fluid that would not stay in his vessels. His grandma and grandpa, his aunts and uncles, and some of his cousins came to the hospital to say goodbye to him. In a beautiful, eloquent, humble prayer, his father expressed our great gratitude for having Jesse in our lives; that we knew that the Lord could cause a miracle and that Jesse could be made well and whole, even at this last moment; but if it were Heavenly Father’s will to take Jesse back to heaven, we could only thank him for the wonderful experience it had been to have Jesse with us and to learn what he had taught us. The rest of the family said goodbye and left Amy and Rich to be alone with Jesse. Less than an hour later, Grandpa returned to be near if needed. He saw flabbergasted doctors and nurses buzzing around the baby’s bed, looking at Jesse. Almost all of the extra fluid had leaked out of a small needle prick in Jesse’s side, and the air had just disappeared. “Where did the air go?!” one doctor exclaimed. Jesse’s eyes were open and he was looking all around. They moved him into a private room, and handed him to his mother to hold. For four hours Jesse lay awake in his mother’s arms and they gazed at each other. A few minutes after midnight on June 10, his mom’s birthday, Jesse fell peacefully asleep.

The hospital staff quickly put together a surprise party for Amy’s birthday, which was certainly one of the happiest days of her life.

This phenomenal pattern of events repeated itself a couple of more times over the following week. Death retreated again, giving Rich a very happy Father’s Day. The staff nicknamed Jesse “The Comeback Kid.” I heard one of the nurses say to Dr. Minton, “You ought to write a book about this.” He thought for a second and snorted, “No one would believe this! They would think it was a work of fiction.” After a moment he added, “But if I did, I would call it A TESTIMONIAL TO THE RESILIENCE OF MAN.” He paused and added, “AND HIS PARENTS.”

Jesse’s last few days were relatively quiet and crisis-free. Mom and Dad were able to have long sessions holding Jesse, who loved to be held. When he passed, it was unexpected and happened very quickly. Because his parents could not get there in time, his doctor and nurses, his other family, compassionately held him as he slipped away.

The doctors and nurses made it possible for his parents to carry Jesse outside to sit in the sunshine by the fountain in the hospital’s beautiful garden, alone with him for the first time. Many people who had cared for Jesse came to the hospital to offer their kind condolences. Their caring and kindness will never be forgotten.

So what is the value of a life that never left a small bed in a hospital room; never uttered a sound; cost a fortune; and over which immeasurable tears have been shed?

Simply stated, Jesse changed people, irrevocably. Brigham Young said that if we could understand how anxious the Spirits are, waiting to come to earth and get on with their progression, we would be eager to bring them to our homes; they are so anxious they are glad to come to the most disadvantaged circumstances. Because of revealed doctrine and inspired utterances in Priesthood blessings, we know that Jesse came gladly to this frail body. He stayed with it, deliberately. He held on and gave the Spirit time to work its mission in many hearts.

Because of his willingness to endure prolonged suffering, he gave us a chance to learn how faith and hope work together. Richard said that while Heavenly Father reassured us over and over again that our faith was sufficient to bring miracles to pass for Jesse, He, nevertheless, gently helped us see that His purpose was to take Jesse back. I add that He constantly reminded us of the promise that Jesse will be given back to be raised by his parents to his full stature in the resurrection.

Jess reminded me that we are all born helpless into the world, and live today, only because of the devoted care of others.

He inspired us to live purer lives, so as to have greater power to bless him, because we loved him.

His innocent suffering reminded us what it means to be pure, childlike; it made us want to be brave, sweet, kind, grateful, meek, patient, enduring.

Amy summed up the blessedness of loving Jesse. She was holding his body at the funeral home and had just laid him down. Weeping, she said, “It was so painful when he was living; but it is so much harder to have him gone!”

I put my arms around her and said, earnestly, “So many of us would lift this burden from you if we could.”

“I wouldn’t wish this on anyone!” she exclaimed. But after a short pause, she added, “But I wouldn’t trade it for anything!”

Bonnie Willford, a receptionist at Utah Valley Medical Center, sent the following writing to Amy and Rich. It was written by Emily Pert Kingsley, and is called “Welcome to Holland.”

WELCOME TO HOLLAND

When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous
vacation trip - to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make
wonderful plans. The Coliseum, Michelangelo's David, The Gondolas
in Venice. You may learn some hand phrases in Italian.
It's all very exciting.
After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives.
You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later the plane lands.
The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland."
"HOLLAND? What do you mean, Holland?
I signed up for Italy. I am supposed to be in Italy.
All of my life, I've dreamed of going to Italy."
But there has been a change in the flight plan.
They've landed in Holland, and there you must stay.
The important thing is they haven't taken you to a horrible,
disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine, and disease.
It's just a different place. So you must go out and buy new
guide books. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will
meet a whole new group of people you would never have
otherwise met. It's a different place. It's slower paced than Italy.
Less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for a while,
and you catch your breath, you look around, and you begin to notice
that Holland has windmills. Tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts.
But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy.
They're all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there.
And for the rest of your life, you will say,
"Yes, that's were I was supposed to go. That's what I had planned."
Maybe the pain of that will never go away, because the loss of that dream
is a significant loss. But if you spend your life in mourning the fact
that you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to
enjoy the very special, the very lovely things of Holland.

Rich added, “Amy and I have been touched by the many people we have met who have also been to Holland. We love Holland. It's a beautiful place. Very close to heaven, I suppose...”

I believe that I knew Jesse in the Pre-existence. But I have forgotten it. I am so looking forward to meeting him again in the resurrection, putting my arms around him, and thanking him for the wonderful gift he has been to us.

Jesse's Lullaby Service

2008-06-29T08:23:00.000-07:00

Jesse's Eyes

2008-06-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

Jesse's Life Video

2008-06-28T07:32:00.000-07:00

Jesse's Story

2008-06-28T07:21:00.000-07:00

Jesse’s Story

I’d like to share with you today the story of Jesse, our son, who was born just the size of a dollar bill at 12 oz. Lots of people used to come up and ask us if he is the smallest baby ever born. We heard that the smallest baby ever to survive from Utah Valley Hospital was 11.5 oz, so Jesse was just off the mark. But just the same, he was very, very small with a constellation of serious medical conditions. Jesse was the perfect medical storm, and very few people gave Jesse much of a chance to live past birth, a day, a weekend, a week.

The hospital defined “success” to us in terms of being able to get Jesse well enough to leave the hospital and go home with us. That is was we prayed and fasted so hard for. We saw miracle after miracle in the darkest days and had great hope that he would be “successful”. Bringing him home would validate the hard work and effort being put forth by so many people. In the end though, Jesse was called home to our Heavenly Father sooner that we would have liked.

Does this mean that Jesse’s life was a failure? Does this mean that all of the prayers and fasting of so many people were in vain? While Jesse may not be counted among the medically successful - in the eternities where spiritual measures count, success isn’t measured in how long we live, but in how we live, the lives that we touch, and how we fulfill our God-given mission here on earth.

So viewed from this eternal perspective and measure, I believe Jesse’s life was a resounding success. It is funny, because Jesse couldn’t speak. I never heard one word or sound out of his mouth. He couldn’t move. He stayed in bed his entire life. He could barely move his arms and legs. He was sick much of the time. So how could someone so tiny, someone so quiet, someone so immobile, touch so many lives?

It was his eyes. The pure wisdom and strength of his spirit was never in doubt as you gazed at his tiny body. As Jesse’s story unfolded, Jesse was asked to face, one by one, daunting medical problems - each one life-threatening, each one impossible to overcome. Yet, each one a miracle as Jesse progressed day by day on the faith and prayers of so many and on Jesse’s sheer strength and long-suffering, and patience. Were people surprised? Were the doctors and nurses that cared for Jesse amazed? Yes. Inexplicably, Jesse’s desire and ability to survive against all odds was truly unbelievable.

When Jesse finally passed away, surprisingly enough it was at one of his stronger, healthier times. I don’t believe he “died”, per se, more that I truly believe an Angel came, took him by the hand, and said Jesse, “It’s time to go”. He had fulfilled his mission that he was called to perform. While we miss him terribly, how happy we are for the little boy, his personality, his strength, his spirit that we have come to know.

Each Fast Sunday, we see fathers giving their children’s blessings. They bless them with the things they will do in life. If you were to give a child a blessing, who wouldn’t want to bless him with the things he would become: courageous, longsuffering, patient, loving, having faith to move mountains and perform miracles, self-sacrificing for others, and obedient to our Heavenly Father’s plan. Jesse possessed these attributes. I believe he is a stalwart spirit of our Heavenly Father who was tested beyond what most people could endure. And when he was welcomed home last Sunday, I’m sure he was welcomed home into a heavenly embrace, saying “Well done, my faithful little boy!”

What a blessed and wonderful child he was. Jesse knew his mission before he came to this earth. As difficult as it would be, full of sacrifice and pain, I believe that Jesse loved Amy and me enough to want to be part of our family and was willing to give of himself for our eternal family. This was a conscious choice of his, knowing what would happen. He demonstrated a strong love and willingness to sacrifice for our family, and every day, we strived to love him back equally, to stand by him in humility, in faith, and in hope. In his darkest hours, we wanted him to know that as he fought for life, Amy and I were there with him fighting for him as well.

We have learned so much from Jesse. We know that God lives. We know that God is aware of each of us. That God is watching over us as the ultimate comforter. We know that God blesses us each day more abundantly than we know and probably deserve. We know that God has a plan - a master plan for the world, and an individual plan for each of us. We know that God loves us more deeply than we can imagine. We have felt of God’s mercy. He has answered our prayers and faith with miracles. We know that God is omnipotent. We know that his priesthood is real and powerful. We know not to underestimate what God can do. Do not through our fear or doubt, self-limit what the Lord can bless us with. God can move mountains, miracles do occur, through faith and His priesthood, you can command in God’s name for things to happen. We know that God is full of grace and who generously offers tender mercies to us to bless our lives.

We have also learned about the people around us – family, friends, ward members, and even people in the community at large. When they heard about Jesse’s story, they rallied around him, loving him, praying and fasting for him, believing in him. The love we have felt from the people around us, the sacrifice for Jesse has been reaffirming as to the importance of love and the power of unity of prayer.

Jesse has touched many people. These are the lessons that we have learned. And in this, Jesse’s life, though painfully short, has been abundantly full. His life and mission has been a success. And I will thank the Lord every day for the blessings he has poured out on our family, our friends, and our ward. We have been blessed with a close-up, personal, vivid glimpse of the hand of an eternal and loving Heavenly Father.

Through these experiences, we have gotten to know our son, and our Heavenly Father, and those wonderful people who surround us, and this is why, through painful, we would never trade of day of our experience. It was a truly joyous time.

Our hearts are full of gratitude. For those at the hospital, friends and family who prayed and fasted regularly for Jesse. For the little children who believed and trusted in God for miracles to occur. We are thankful to Heavenly Father for sending Jesse to us with a plan to change our lives, and give us an opportunity for an eternal family. For Jesus and his atoning sacrifice that allows us the opportunity to see Jesse again in the flesh if we are worthy. We are thankful to God for comforting Jesse and being with him as the ultimate comforter when nothing earthly could be done. We are thankful for Jesse, who willingly chose the path he walked with full knowledge of what was in store. He chose Amy and I. We are thankful for the angels in heaven (ministering angels in scrubs) who watched over him day and night. We are thankful for the miracles we have witnessed, for the strengthening of our faith and others around him. We are thankful for having a wonderful little boy as part of our eternal family. Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude.

Jesse touched a lot of lives in his short time here on earth. We pray that you will remember the story of Jesse and know that no miracle is too big for a loving God who is willing and able to bless you. When things get the darkest, and the doctors tell you there is nothing else to do - no operations, no medicine, no treatments - when things seem impossible … that is the time to double your faith. Have hope. Have charity. Have gratitude. Be humble. Have no fear - no doubts. Then quietly watch for the arm of the merciful Lord to be revealed. Miracles do happen.

This is Jesse’s story.

Dad's Comments at the Funeral Service

Love from Others

2008-06-27T22:34:00.000-07:00

A special thank-you for all of the tokens of love and support that

Amy and Richard have received. And thank you for all of the time

and effort that was given to ensure that this day was a beautiful day.

This is a beautiful, handmade quilt and pillow, made by

Richand and Amy's church. Each square with a word

that each family felt best described Jesse.

It is perfect.

A handmade wall hanging, made by a talented friend,

and statues, given by family and friends.

A sign that sums up Jesse

Jesse's Funeral

2008-06-27T22:18:00.000-07:00

Beautiful pictures of Jesse
A slideshow of pictures
Dollar and Jesse comparison

(bookmarks to remember Jesse by)

Jesse's friend, Woody.

Pictures and thoughts about Jesse

Funeral

2008-06-26T15:21:00.001-07:00

Jesse's funeral will be held on Friday, June 27, 2008

9:00-10:00 a.m. - Viewing

10:00-11:00 a.m.- Funeral Services

Address: 650 E. 3200 N. Lehi, UT

(take Thanksgiving Point Exit, turn left and head east,

towards mountains on HWY 92. Turn RIGHT on 7200 W.

Go straight, turn RIGHT on 10800 N /3200 N

(it's both, I guess) Building

is a few blocks down, pinkish building.

Click Here For Map

Please call if you have any questions.

Thank you for all of the love and support you have shown

Jesse, Richand, and Amy.

Jesse

2008-06-23T20:40:00.000-07:00

Don't think of him as gone away -
his journey's just begun,
life holds so many facets -
this earth is only one.

Just think of him as resting
from the sorrows and the tears
in a place of warmth and comfort
where there are no days and years.

Think how he must be wishing
that we could know today
how nothing but our sadness
can really pass away.

And think of him as living
In the hearts of those he touched
For nothing loved is ever lost -
And he is loved so much!

(by Ellen Brennamen)

June 22, 2008 Jesse Passed Away Today

2008-06-22T23:42:00.000-07:00

Jesse passed away on Sunday morning, June 22, 2008 at 6:08 am. He was 6 months, 9 days old. He had a wonderful week before his passing. We were able to hold him every day, and what a joy he was. On Saturday night, both Amy and I held him for several hours each. He slept peacefully in our arms. When we tucked him and said goodnight, he looked wonderful. All night, there were no problems. At 5:30 in the morning, they noticed a small problem with his lungs. They took xrays, but weren't that worried. We got a call at 5:45 mentioning that they might have to tap his lungs, but they would wait and see. In the next several minutes, he went downhill quickly, and slipped away very quickly without any trauma.

We decided to take the time to hold Jesse, and we took him outside to see the sunshine for the first time. It was also the first time that we were able to see his face, lie down with him, and hold him. He is truly a beautiful baby, a miracle baby, and we have been blessed each day to have him with us.

We love him so much, and miss him dearly. I don't know if the hurt will ever go away, but we do know that he is in the arms of a loving heavenly father and family members now. His patience, longsuffering, endurance, and courage is a tribute to his willingness to accept his calling in this mortal life. He truly was a big man in a little baby. We can't wait to be with him again.

This is the last picture taken alive on Saturday afternoon. We spent the whole day with him, and he was peaceful and doing well. No one anticipated his passing. His mission was fulfilled, and on Sunday, our Heavenly Father came to take him by the hand, welcome him home, and say, "Well done, my faithful little boy!" No words can explain the thanks we have for our Heavenly Father and the blessings and miracles we have witnessed. Jesse has touched many, many people, and strengthened the faith of many. We miss him. We love him. And we know we can live with him again.

19 June 2008 - Holding Jesse

2008-06-20T14:14:00.000-07:00

Jesse surprisingly has stopped leaking his lymphatic fluid over the last couple of days, and has been quite stable. Doctors orders are that we now have to hold him every day! Those are the types of orders you like to hear. Here, Jesse is sleeping in Rich's arms.

He has been able to sleep quite a bit lately, but his waking moments are quite striking. He looks around, tries to figure out what is going on. Below, he checks out his Mom...

Thanks to everyone for your prayers, fasting, and wishes for Jesse. He is doing better this week, after the many scares we had the previous two weeks. Love you all.

Rich & Amy

Jesse is smiling!

2008-06-20T12:08:00.000-07:00

Today, I (Melanie) went up to visit Jesse during my lunch. I was touched to see him smiling in his sleep. He must have be having a great dream! I had to take a few pictures.

Can't you just see his little grin?

Jesse had a rough night last night possibly due to pain, but this morning his number look amazing and he had been resting well. Continue to have a good day Jesse! He still has a long way to go and needs our continued prayers and love.

Jesse's Friends

2008-06-20T11:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I (Melanie) had the chance to visit Jesse when Emily (Jesse's next favorite cousin) and Jessica (Jesse's favorite aunt) came to visit him. With them, they bought this sign and chocolate for all of Jesse's friends.

Jesse has so many friends who come to visit him. But, I just wanted to introduce you to Jesse's stuffed friends who are at his side all day long.

"Leroy" the hound dog who watches over Jesse!

A dragon who sits in Jesse's bed to protect him!

Woody who shows how much Jesse has grown!

Visiting Jesse

2008-06-19T23:34:00.000-07:00

Today I (Emily) and my mom (Jessica) went and saw Jesse. He looks beautiful! He's doing really well. Today was a good day. When we walked in, his nurse and respritory therapist were sitting in their chairs.... talking. If Jesse's nurses are sitting down, it's a great day! So, we decided we are going to pray for boring days; uneventful, no stress, calm, boring, beautiful days!

"In time of test, family is best." Proverb

2008-06-19T22:54:00.000-07:00

Jesse's Family Tree

2 amazing parents

2 Living Grandparents

(2 watching and praying from the other side),

1 "Nana" (Aunt Jessica, who has claimed the role)
25 aunts and uncles

61 cousins (yes, 61, not a typo)

48 first cousins once removed.

and countless friends.

......and 1 Cairo.

This is a loved little boy.

"When you look at your life, the greatest happinesses are family happinesses."~Joyce Brothers

"You don't choose your family. They are God's gift to you, as you are to them. ~Desmond Tutu

"The love of a family is life's greatest blessing."

Families are like fudge - mostly sweet with a few nuts.

(isn't that the truth!)

Wednesday June 18

2008-06-19T11:48:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday when I (Melanie) first walked into his room, Jesse was crying. I had to take a picture because he looks so sad when he cries. It makes me want to do everything I can for him.

Then, within the next minute, he was falling back to sleep. He sure does need his sleep to heal and grow. Get some good rest Jesse!

I was asked to post a picture of his hand and food. Here they are. They are not the clearest, because my camera does not take great pictures in the dark without a flash. So considering the atmosphere in Jesse's room, my camera is not the best. But none the less, Jesse little hand and feet are so cute! He has long fingers and toes.

Jesse will wrap his fingers around the end of your finger. It is so sweet! But don't touch his foot, Jesse has to have his blood drawn from his foot to test his blood gas. Everytime someone touches his foot, he begins to cry (anticipating the pain that usually follows).

June 16, 2008 Hard Monday

2008-06-17T13:31:00.001-07:00

We got called in again on Monday. Jesse had the air leaks back in his lungs, and they couldn't keep him oxygenated very well. Also, he seems to have developed a lymphatic leak under his left arm that drained all day. The doctors had a hard time keeping enough fluid in him to maintain his blood pressure. Another long, scary day, but slowly he came back up, inch by inch through the day. Also, another problem was that he was very irritable, and couldn't sleep since Saturday when he came back to us. No amount of pain meds seemed to help, and Jesse was very miserable. We gave him a blessing Sunday night and by the morning when we came back to the hospital, Jesse was able to sleep. He is a really cute little boy, now weighing 4.2 pounds after six months. He has been through a lot, but is still progressing. The Lord has blessed Jesse very much, but we still need you to continue to pray for him, as there is a long way to go.

June 15, 2008 Fathers Day! My First!

2008-06-17T13:22:00.001-07:00

Emily and Matt come down to Church at the hospital today with Jessica. They celebrated Fathers Day with us. Jesse was very cute looking around having a great time.

Rich with his Aunt Jessica looking over Jesse. "Leroy" the hounddog looks over Jesse from the right hand side.

I know it may not mean that much to all of you looking on who have oodles of kids, but after 48 years, this was my first fathers day. What a great day. What a great kid!

June 14, 2008 Life is Great!

2008-06-17T13:04:00.001-07:00

Had yet another episode with Jesse today, where we recieved a call early on that Jesse was going to pass away today. We rushed to the hospital, and with the help of Jeff Labrum and Terrance Savage we were able to give him a priesthood blessing. I don't think Jesse had ever looked so bad. The hopspital made arrangements for us to hold Jesse, thinking it was the end. Actually, he pulled another miracle out of the hat, and came back will full vigor. Incredible experience. Since they thought it was the end, they took the tape off the right side of his face for us so that we could see what he looked like. This was the first time. Mom is holding him here with Dad looking on.

Dad's favorite present for Father's Day tomorow. Jesse looks up into my eyes. My, how he likes being held...

A clear picture of his face without all the tape. Quite beautiful, if you don't mind me saying so. My how we love him dearly.

Just to give an idea of how much fluid he lost today, it was almost 1000cc's of fluid. 2.2 pounds. That is almost 35% of his body weight. The arm band you see around his arm was tight when it started. That should give you some perspective on how much he lost. The little catheter sticking in his side just kept pouring out fluid for hours until he had lost all the extra fluid. After a couple of hours, Emily Hugo came by to visit, and she didn't even know anything was going on. By noon Jesse looked magnificent, looking around, snuggling in our arms.

Miracles keep on happening. Life is great!

It's all in the name

2008-06-17T12:59:00.000-07:00

Jesse--is of Hebrew origin, meanings- wealthy, gift, God's gift, and "the Lord exists"

Caleb--is of Hebrew origin, meaning- faithful, a companion of Moses and Joshua, was noted for his astute powers of observation and fearlessness in the face of overwhelming odds; his devotion to God.

Sounds like our Jesse Caleb.

It's all about perspective

2008-06-17T09:03:00.000-07:00

Seeing the smile, past the ventilator tube.

A Roller Coaster

2008-06-16T23:13:00.000-07:00

Richard, Amy, and Jesse have been riding a medical roller coaster for 6+ months. There have been times of extreme lows and doubt, yet moments of exhilerating highs and joy. Rich and Amy....remember we are all there supporting you! Some are in the car, sitting right behind you, living your fears and your thrills, hourly, while others are supporting you from the ground below. And though it may be hard to see all of us here on the ground....we are here, waiting, and praying, sending you our love and support. You are loved.

A Hard Day

2008-06-16T13:00:00.000-07:00

Jesse is having a hard day. Please keep Amy, Richard, and Jesse in your thoughts and prayers.

CAIRO

2008-06-15T18:34:00.000-07:00

situation: I (Emily) am sitting at the computer, looking at pictures of Jesse. Matthew, my four year old, comes up to the computer.....

Matthew: "Mom, who's that?"

Emily: "That's cousin Jesse. Remember, we went to the hospital today, so mommy and daddy could see him and say hi. He's not feeling very well, and he's in the hospital. Jesse is Richard and Amy's baby. "

Matthew: (thinks for a second)...."Is he Cairo's baby, too?"

Emily: (smiling) "Yes, he's Cairo's baby too."

A special thank you for all those who have watched, walked, and loved Cairo, while Richard and Amy have been with Jesse.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY, RICHARD!

2008-06-15T16:49:00.001-07:00

Today we (Emily and family, Melanie, and my mom) went down to visit Jesse, Richard, and Amy. Jesse is doing amazingly well today. The past week has been extremely difficult for Jesse, Rich, and Amy. But through the recent storms, there have been moments of pure sunshine and joy. Miracles have been witnessed, prayers have been answered, and two parents were able to hold their son for hours! Happy Father's Day, Richard!

6 month birthday!

2008-06-13T09:25:00.000-07:00

Jesse is 6 months old today! It is great to see Rich's pictures. His camera is better than mine, but here are a few pictures I took. As you can tell, I look to see lots of pictures. Therefore, I will put more on for all of you to see.

This morning, I (Melanie) went up to visit as I do most mornings. Jesse was sleeping peacefully. He looks so sweet. I had to take a few pictures.

Jesse is wearing a headband over his eyes (like his Aunt Vickie) to help him sleep better.

JUNE 12, 2008

Last night (June 12), I went to visit Jesse and he was wide awake. It is always great to see him awake. Here are a few photos and even some videos of him looking around.

Look how big he is. Jesse weighs around 4 lbs right now.

His favorite cousin, Melanie, by his side.

Look at Jesse's beautiful brown eyes.

More Miracles!

2008-06-12T14:14:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Jesse's 6 month birthday. We have seen a few miracles over the last couple of days. First was on Monday the 9th when he overcame significant lung problems and leaks, and then on the 10th when the final leak was healed. Quite a birthday present for Amy.

Attached are some photos I took for his birthday poster to hang in his room. These past few days, we have given Jesse blessings 5 nights in a row, each time when he was in serious condition, and each time we were blessed with improvements.

It has been an amazingly difficult week for Jesse, but in the end, Heavenly Father has been merciful through it all. Monday and Tuesday nights recoveries were truly unbelievable in how quickly and dramatically Jesse's condition improved.

Love you all. Please keep up your prayers. He still has a long way to go..

Rich & Amy

Monday June 9

2008-06-09T11:34:00.000-07:00

Jesse has been in Provo for 10 days now. I (Melanie) have been to see him most of those days. I will try to update you quickly. Jesse has had a rough 10 days with many little complications. It started with an infection found very soon after he arrived in Provo. The infection was found in multiple places in his body. He was started on antibiotics. Then, Jesse began to swell. Once he lost some of his swelling, the doctors had difficulty keeping his oxygen saturation up. On Sunday afternoon, Jesse's numbers were beginning to look good again. But around 6 pm, a chest x-ray revealed another complication. Jesse's body began accumulating pockets of free air. What this means is that there was a leak (or possibly a tear) between his lungs and outer lining of his body (subcutaneous layer). He is being cared for by many doctors, nurses, and respiratory therapists who love him. His parents are watching over his care with love and words of encouragement. He continues to receive prayers and love from family members and friends. Jesse continues to be a fighter. But with all of his current trials, Jesse's chest tubes continue to drain very little, which means his chyrothorax most likely is healed. This is just one instances of the many miracles Jesse has received.

Back in Provo

2008-06-05T22:03:00.001-07:00

(Emily writing)

Update! Jesse is back in Provo. He is back at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center (Provo). Jesse wasn't too fond of life in the hectic, big city, and yearned for a place where life was a little slower paced, not so many neighbors, room to stretch his legs, and closer to his family (especially his parents) and friends. So, he has now returned to the land of his birth (literally). Jesse was transferred back to UVRMC and is still riding a medical roller coaster, though he is now gaining REAL weight! (yeah!) Melanie, who works at UVRMC, is a daily visitor, and always has updates and pictures. (I will get her to write tomorrow!) Keep your thoughts and prayers coming! Emily

Jesse looking so cute!

2008-05-27T12:26:00.000-07:00

Richard did a great job of updating everyone about this Jesse's miracle. I (Melanie) went up on Sunday and Monday to visit Jesse. He looked so cute! I always love to see lots of pictures and thought that everyone would want to see more pictures! So here they are...

On Sunday, he was wide awake with his eyes open and looking around. The new debate is to what color his eyes will be. Some are saying they are hazel, others say they are brown. I can't really tell what they will be. He would look from side to side and also watch his little mobile (made by Rich) on top of his bed.

Can you see his hand waving? Jesse wanted to say hi! Richard said that he had been flirting all day with Richard, Amy, and the nurses. They would stick their tongue one and he would do the same. I did not see this, but he did wave his hand.

Look how big he has gotten!

He is now tired of flirting and decided to fall asleep!

This little boy continues to amaze me!

Memorial Day Miracle

2008-05-26T21:39:00.000-07:00

The picture above was taken Monday afternoon. The picture below was taken Friday evening. What a change in 3 days.

Today was a great day! Jesse was scheduled for surgery today as a last ditch effort to heal his congenital chylo thorax, which is basically a seepage leak from his lymph system, which drains a fair amount of his nutrition and immune system into his lung cavity, which then has to be drained by chest tubes . This has been a perpetual problem from Jesse's first days. It was one of the things that could have done him in, because he couldn't grow properly, and he was vulnerable to infection.

We and a number of family and friends were praying and fasting that Jesse would be able to lose some of his body fluid, to be ready for surgery. We prayed to know if the surgery was the right thing to do, because it was very dangerous. We prayed that if the surgery happened, it would go well. On Sunday night before the operation was scheduled on Monday, Jesse got a priesthood blessing saying that he would be healed without the surgery.

When the surgeon came in Monday morning for the final evaluation of Jesse and to schedule the procedure, he looked at Jesse and said that he didn't need the surgery any more. His tube drainage had all but disappeared, and we would watch it for a day or two, but it looked like it had healed. Jesse had an amazingly stable day, and his body seems to have come into a balance that we haven't seen today. The surgeon said that this is what he had been praying for this weekend as well. We love him...

We are continuing to pray, giving thanks for the miracle today, and praying that Jesse will stay stable so he can get the nutrition he needs to grow, as well as build his immune system to keep him healthy. We thank all of you who have been so kind to keep Jesse in your prayers and fasting. I truly believe that prayer in unity, especially with little children praying for Jesse has a big impact on the blessings that come.

Love you all

Rich & Amy

Welcome to Holland

2008-05-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

Bonnie Willford, one of the receptionists at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center where Jesse spent his first two months sent us this story from Emily Pert Kingsley. Bonnie's letter came at a particularly difficult time as we were preparing Jesse to get his bowel surgey done. We had already transferred to Primary Children's in Salt Lake, but she sent this as a message from the staff who were "quiet and hopeful" for Jesse. Bonnie, Thank You for your love and kindness.

Welcome to Holland

When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous

vacation trip - to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make

wonderful plans. The Colliseum, Michelangelo's David, The Gondolas

in Venice. You may learn some hand phrases in Italian.

It's all very exciting.

After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives.

You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later the plane lands.

The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland."

"HOLLAND? What do you mean, Holland.

I signed up for Italy. I am supposed to be in Italy.

All of my life, I've dreamed of going to Italy."

But there has been a change in the flight plan.

They've landed in Holland, and there you must stay.

The important thing is they haven't taken you to a horrible,

digusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine, and disease.

It's just a different place. So you must go out and buy new

guide boks. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will

meet a whole new group of people you would never have

otherwise met. It's a different place. It's slower paced than Italy.

Less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for a while,

and you catch your breath, you look around, and you begin to notice

that Holland has windmills. Tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts.

But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy.

They're al bragging about what a wonderful time they had there.

And for the rest of your life, you will say,

"Yes, that's were I was supposed to go. That's what I had planned."

Maybe the pain of that will never go away, because the loss of that dream

is a significant loss. But if you spend your life in mourning the fact

that you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to

enjoy the very special, the very lovely things of Holland.

Amy and I have been touched by the many people we have met who have also been to Holland. We love Holland. It's a beautiful place. Very close to heaven, I suppose...

"he's my son" mark schultz video - Google Video

2008-05-21T08:42:00.000-07:00

Many times as I was driving up to see Jesse on Sundays, I have heard this song. It always reminds me of Jesse and our continous prayers for his well being. I gave a copy to Rich and Amy on his 5 month birhtday. They agreed with me and felt this song also expressed thier prayers. I was unable to just attach the song, but was able to connect this link. It will touch your heart as well. As you listen, please say a little prayer for Jesse. He continues to need our love and prayers.

"he's my son" mark schultz video - Google Video

Sunday May 18

2008-05-19T08:33:00.001-07:00

Today, I (Melanie) decided to spend this Sunday afternoon with Jesse. Throughout the week, he continued to gain fluid weight until about Thursday. Then he has started to slowly lose the water weight. When I first walked into the room, Jesse was in a deep sleep. It was nice to see him resting peacefully. His little fingers tried to hold onto mine even with a big IV in his hand. His hair is growing in and is soft. It is still hard to tell what color it will be. Then, Dr. Downy came into talk to Rich and Amy. By the time he left and I went back into the room, Jesse was trying to wake up. He tried to keep his eyes open, but it was hard for him with all the fluids. He looked at me and then around to Amy. He has such a strong spirit and connects with you when he looks at you. Here are a few pictures of Jesse trying to keep his eyes open. My camera has a slight delay which makes it hard to capture his eyes open.

Jesse's beautiful eyes!

Jesse is trying so hard to keep them open!

He loves to look around and see all his visitors!

Now Jesse is resting peacefully after entertaining his visitors!

Jesse continues to need our love and support. He responds to positive vibes and love! He has a strong spirit and radiates love. He continues to fight and be strong. He has not had his lung surgery yet, and may have it sometime this week. Rich, Amy, and his doctors are continuing to decide what is the best for Jesse right now. Continue to pray for this little boy! And if you have the chance to visit, he will show you how strong he is and his love for you!

Jesse is 5 months old!

2008-05-14T16:01:00.000-07:00

May 13, 2008

I (Melanie) had not been to see Jesse in over two weeks, so I decided his 5 month birthday was a perfect time. It is amazing to think that it has already been 5 months. He has changed so much.

Jesse has had a rough few days. He has had surgery to place a broviac line (special IV line to give/take blood place into the vein leading into the heart). Since the surgery, Jesse has begun to retain water and is swollen right now. He continues to suffer from broken bones in both legs. He has had at least 5 broken ribs. With all this happening, he continues to fight. He is breathing on top of the ventilator. He opens his eyes and looks around. I had the opportunity tonight to watch (and slightly help) change Jesse's positioning and weight him. Amy was able to hold him up. During this time, Jesse had his eyes opened and looked around. By the time it was over and I got out my camera, Jesse was comfortable and had fallen asleep.

Here is Jesse at 5 months old.

Just in case you forgot....Jesse was born at 350 grams (12.5 oz).

Tonight, Jesse weighted 1970 grams (4 lbs 5.5 oz). However, Jesse is swollen.

The doctors are assuming his actual weight to be around 3lbs!

Keep growing Jesse!

Here is a close-up of his beautiful head.

You can see that his hair is slowly growing in.

Jesse continues to need our love and prayers. He may need to undergo surgery for his lungs in the next few days. After the surgery, he may move back to Utah Valley. I will enjoy being able to see him more often if he does move back.

It is always nice to be able to see this wonderful little boy. He has a strong spirit and radiates love! Continue to keep him in your thoughts and prayers daily! If you would like to participate, we are having a family fast for him this Sunday, May 18th.

MAY 13, 2008

2008-05-14T00:06:00.000-07:00

JESSE IS 5 MONTHS OLD! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

April 17

2008-04-17T20:06:00.000-07:00

Jesse turned four months old on Sunday, April 13! It is amazing that it has already been 4 months. I (Melanie) went to visit him tonight and spent about 45 minutes with Amy and Jesse. Amy (and Jesse) say hello to everyone in the family! Jesse slept for the first 20 minutes and then was awake and alert for the last 25 minutes. His eyes focus and look around the room. He has a few pictured taped to the top of his bed that he likes to look at. His hair is growing in and looks blondish to me (others have argued that it will be darker). Here are a few pictures of the day!

Jesse is looking right at me!

Jesse is looking at a picture of Cairo!

Jesse has positioning rolls made especially for him by his mom!

Just like the white ones under his legs.

Here is a view from the bottom of Jesse's bed.

April 6, 2008

2008-04-07T08:19:00.000-07:00

Last night, I (Melanie) went to see Jesse with Jon and Stephanie. Sadly, I forgot to bring my camera. Miraculously, his chyrothorax healed last week and he did not have to go into surgery. But to our great dismay, it started again on Saturday afternoon. Jesse had a wonderful blessing that said that his chyrothorax would be healed. Continue to pray for this little boy. Jesse looked calm and at peace. I wish I had my camera to show everyone. His hair continues to grow a little (there is a debate as to what color it will be). Part of the time, he was sleeping peacefully holding Amy's or my finger. At other times, he opened his eyes and looked around when I was in the room. He continues to amaze me.

March 31, 2008 (My Due Date)

2008-04-01T07:31:00.000-07:00

Since I had not been to see Jesse in a week and I got off early today. I (Melanie) decided it was time to visit him. It turned out that it was his due day. Jesse was tired, but kept trying to open his eyes to look around at everyone. I got one where he looked at Richard, but not where he was looking at me. If you look really closely, he is starting to grow hair on his head and grow eyebrows and eyelashes. That is exciting. He was kicking his legs and moving around for all to see. He continues to fight and stay strong. However, he had a rough day with a lot of scans and other tests. He will probably have surgery in the next few days for chyrothorax and some other lung surgery (not sure what it is called, but they take off the top layer of lung tissue to rough it up and glue it to the pleural lining, so that his lungs won't collect the fluid anymore). They said that he lost weight since they gave him medication to reduce the water collecting in his body and lungs. He is now just over two pounds. If you have questions, I may be able to answer them. Continue to pray for this sweet little boy.

As you can see, I have IVs in both arms and legs.

Look how big I am getting!

I see my dad next to my bed!

Big yawn! I am tired.

The nurse just gave me some ativan, so I can have a restful night.

Good night Jesse!

Happy Easter!

2008-03-23T20:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter faithful readers! Sorry it's been so long since we've updated. I've (Emily) been sick so I haven't gone and seen Jesse for about 2 months, Melanie is in Provo (while Jesse has been at Primary Childrens for the last few weeks), and Richard and Amy are busy taking care of this cute little boy. I just got back from the hospital and Jesse has gotten so much bigger (he's 2.8 lbs now!) and doing well. We are definitely on the "two steps forward and one step back" plan, with different little issues coming up, but all and all Jessie is doing amazing. Here are some pictures of this little guy....

"My dad he is my favorite pal..."

Richard and Jesse

Happy Easter, Jesse!

Trying to go to sleep.

Richard and Jesse

When I walked into the room, Jesse was crying (a silent cry, but it made me cry), and Richard lifted the top of the incubator and put his hand on his head and talked to him, and Jesse stopped crying and went to sleep (which made me cry more!) Please keep this little guy (and his parents) in your thoughts and prayers.

Feb 10, 2008

2008-03-01T19:05:00.000-08:00

Feb 2, 2008

2008-03-01T19:01:00.000-08:00

Amy was able to hold the baby for about an hour today. What a treat.

Feb 1, 2008

2008-03-01T18:58:00.001-08:00

Jesse's Eyes!

Jan 29, 2008

2008-03-01T18:56:00.001-08:00

Jesse's new friend.

Jan 28, 2008

2008-03-01T18:50:00.000-08:00

Good Day. Blanket was made by Melanie for Jesse.

Jan 25, 2008

2008-03-01T18:44:00.000-08:00

Bit of a reunion. Dave, Debbie, Vickie, Jessica, Elizabeth, Sarah came into town to visit Jesse.

Jan 15 - 17, 2008

2008-03-01T18:37:00.000-08:00

Jesse is his heaviest ever, and we cant stop him from leaking fluid into the tissues. His skin is taught like a little water balloon.

Jan 13, 2008 Jesse's First Month Birthday

2008-03-01T18:29:00.001-08:00

Bit of a party on his 1st month birthday. Grandparents, Dave and Audrey and Family joined the nurses and staff in the festivities.

Jan 9, 2008

2008-03-01T18:25:00.001-08:00

Jesse was taken via the Life Flight team downstairs for his CT scan on his intestines to see if they could see any blockages.

Jan 1 2008

2008-03-01T18:15:00.000-08:00

Jesse made it through New Years day, though this was his toughest week.

Surgery

2008-02-26T07:24:00.000-08:00

Baby Jesse was transferred from Utah Valley to Primary Children's Medical Center last Friday night. It is sad to see him go to another hospital, because I will not be able to see him daily, but I know that it is what he needed at this time. Jesse was accepted for abdominal surgery and had the surgery on Saturday, February 23. The surgery went well and he stabilized after surgery. As far as I know, he is c0ntinuing to do well and his surgical site looks wonderful. Continue to pray in behalf of this wonderful strong little boy. I will try to update the website as I hear more from Richard and Amy.

Saturday, February 16

2008-02-19T07:41:00.000-08:00

Well, I have not seen Richard here at the hospital in a few days. We always seem to just miss each other. So, I decided to take a few pictures to add to the blog. Of course, the time a go to take pictures, he is sound asleep (which is probably for the best). I will try to get some more when he is awake and moving around more. Rich had many more that are cuter and I will try to convince him to post them.

Shhhh..I am sleeping peacefully!

2 months old

2008-02-14T08:32:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, February 13th, Jesse turned two months old. He continues to be strong and fight to make it through all the struggles of being premature. Right now, Jesse has air in his small intestines that is not moving through. It has been there over tow weeks and they are contemplating whether to do surgery. Please remember him in your prayers and he needs our faith to remain strong and believe that he will continue to grow. Amy was able to hold him skin to skin on her chest on Monday night. She was very excited and pleased to be that close to him. I am sure that he enjoyed being that close to his mom as well. Jeses is cute and continues to be social. He moves his arms and legs. He waves to you when you come to visit. He even tried to open his eyes for me the other day. I will try to convince Richard to post more pictures. Or I will try to remember to bring my camera to work to take more pictures for everyone to see him.

8 Weeks Old

2008-02-07T07:41:00.001-08:00

Baby Jesse is 8 weeks old today. He has had a rough week this last week, but is currently sleeping peacefully. They attempted to feed him last Thursday night which amplified some problems in his intestines. He had a large amount of air in his small intestines which was not moving into his large intestines. This caused pressure on his lungs and heart. His whole body has swelled again and fluid started to collect around his lungs. He now has a chest tube in the right lung and they are hoping to not have to put one in the left lung. He is doing well this morning and resting peacefully. He waves his hands at you, which is really cute. He has been through a lot these last eight weeks, but he continues to amaze us. All your prayers and love are much appreciated.

Dec 26, 2007

2008-01-26T14:18:00.000-08:00

Jesse is 13 days old, and when he is stable and feeling good, the nurses turn him over so he can sleep on his tummy. It also helps to move the fluid around that has been collecting on his body.

This is a sky view of Jesse laying in his bed and the many connections he has to the equipment around him. In the middle, they try to keep the baby in a peapod to closely imitate what it would be like inside Mom.

In the evenings, Amy is able to get in with the nurses where they weigh the baby, wash him, change the linens, change diapers, etc. There is normally a nurse (Julie) and a respiratory therapist (Lyn) assigned to Jesse.

Dec 25, 2007

2008-01-26T14:12:00.000-08:00

On Christmas day, Jesse received several blankets for presents which decorate the top of his crib as well as line the bed of his crib. Tawny and Catherine are two more nurses who have been especially caring and watchful over Jesse. The boxing gloves were given by the Alsops to show what a "fighter" Jesse has been. What a treat to be able to spend time with Jesse on his first Christmas.

Dec 24, 2007

2008-01-26T14:09:00.000-08:00

We read Jesse the night before Christmas and the Christmas story from the Bible. We gathered around and sang Christmas hymns as well. His nurse Keri has been a great strength in the support of Jesse, and we are very thankful for the doctors and nurses who have supported Jesse in his care.

Dec 23, 2007

2008-01-26T14:04:00.000-08:00

Sunday, Jesse is now 10 days old, and the Grandparents on the Moore side stop by for a visit. Doctor Minton and Shelly work on Jesse. Things have settled down since the Saturday episode.

Dec 22, 2007 (cont)

2008-01-26T13:56:00.000-08:00

This Saturday was a tough day for Jesse. His vital signs collapsed. Jesse received a priesthood blessing, and even though the Doctors said that "There's no time for miracles today" and they took him out of his bed and handed him to Amy, Jesse recovered and they rushed to put him back in the bed and he stabilized. We also performed the ordinance to give him a name and a blessing at the hospital.

Dec 22, 2007

2008-01-26T13:46:00.000-08:00

9 Days old, and the day of BYU's bowl game with UCLA. First picture gives an idea of the equipment surrounding Jesses sustaining his life. Jesse's foot size against Rich's hand.

Dec 21, 2007

2008-01-26T13:42:00.000-08:00

At 8 days old, Jesse hasn't gained much weight yet, but has stabilized. He holds on to Amy's little finger.

Dec 17, 2007

2008-01-26T13:33:00.000-08:00

4 days old. As tiny as he is, the PICC lines are the tubes through which the feed him and provide the medicines he needs to survive. It is amazing what the doctors and nurses can do with babies this small. Amy was able to feed him mothers milk for the first time.

Saturday, Dec 15, 2007

2008-01-26T13:22:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, Jesse was put in a plastic bag inside the incubator in order to keep humidity and warmth at a maximum. The nurses also made casts and prints of his hands and feet. I put my wedding ring next to them to gauge the size. His hands and feet easily fit through my ring...

2008-01-26T13:17:00.000-08:00

This photo was taken on Dec 14, 2007 the day after Jesse was born for reference as to his size.

2008-01-26T12:46:00.000-08:00

Another picture from the day he was born. At 12 oz, everyone was worried whether or not the breathing tubes and feeding lines were small enough to fit in him, but everything went well.

2008-01-26T12:38:00.000-08:00

First photo taken of Jesse on Dec 13, 2007 the day of his birth. He was born at 8:29 am at 12 oz or 350 grams of weight. Skin is not developed yet, so very translucent and fragile. Everytime you touch him, he bruises, which leads to his color darkening over the next several weeks.

2008-01-26T12:29:00.000-08:00

I'm going to go back in time and post some photos of Jesse's journey so far. Sorry I have been so delinquent in posting these. But as Melanie noted, he celebrated his 6 week birthday last Thursday. He has been losing some of his water weight, and looks better each day. Santa visited Jesse in the NICU on Christmas.

6 weeks old

2008-01-24T07:13:00.000-08:00

Baby Jesse had a hard day on Tuesday, but did well on Wednesday. I can't believe that he is already 6 weeks old. He moves his hands, which looks like he is waving and saying "hello". His coloring and skin is looking much better. He is continuing to grow (but he also continues to lose the excess fluid, as his whole body is swollen). They are estimating his actual body weight to be around 600 grams= ~ 1 pound 5 ounces (he was born at 350 grams= ~12.5 ounces). Wow, he has grown when you think of it that way! He has great nurses who care about him and continue to have hope. I know it is hard to explain everything as things change daily, but I know Richard and Amy are trying to keep the family updated. I know that Richard and Amy appreciate all the family support and prayers. I love the chance I have to go see him on a daily basis and get a update about his day. Thank you for all your love and prayers for sweet baby Jesse.

~Melanie (his loving cousin)

5 weeks old!

2008-01-17T14:50:00.000-08:00

Today Jesse is 5 weeks old. He is stable (most of the time) and will start being fed soon. We are all praying this goes well. Please continue to remember him in your prayers (especially on Saturdays, Jesse seems to have rough Saturdays). Call Rich and Amy (or Melanie, who works at the same hospital Jesse is at) for more updates, they would love to hear from you!

Emily

2008-01-03T12:41:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Matt for helping set up the blog for Jesse. Since the scares over the past weekend, Jesse has been doing progressively better, and we were able to usher in the 2008 New Year celebration in the hospital. Today, Jesse Caleb is 3 weeks old, and he looks so cute. His eyes now open, and if your lucky during a visit, he might just peep to check you out. We are praying that the hole in his lung closes, and that his heart will be made whole. He is losing some of his water weight that has been building up and very cute. Thanks for the people that have come and visited him during his stay. Love you all, and your prayers and fasting are truly helping.

From Richard's email:

2008-01-02T22:55:00.001-08:00

Everyone:

Jesse is now over 2 weeks old, and has had a stressful couple of days with edema, picc line changes, collapsed lungs, etc. etc. etc. Tonight though, he is stable and sleeping peacefully. We are so thankful for the thoughts and prayers of so many people, and it is helping. They have pulled Jesse off the medicine to open the PDA ductus in his heart to help offset restricted blood flow from the Tetrology problems. That being said, even with it closed, he is stable tonight. We are fasting and praying tomorrow that his heart will be made whole. His lungs seem to have recovered and there is no bleeding in the brain, so there are many positive things that have happened as well. We love you all.

Rich, Amy, and Jesse

Baby Jesse

2008-01-02T22:43:00.001-08:00

This is a blog, being set up for Richard and Amy, so they can let everyone know how Jesse is doing and post pictures, etc. Please continue to fast and pray for this little guy. He's a fighter!