Saturday, September 12, 2009

Quite A Year

It was one year ago today that our lives took a turn for the unexpected. Christa, Carly and I sat for what seemed like hours in the exam room waiting to hear the result from Carly’s head ultrasound. When the doctors walked into the room we didn’t know what to expect, but we could tell it wasn’t good. “Your daughter has a very large brain tumor.” It felt like all of the air was sucked out of the room, leaving us gasping for a breath. There was no way to know how to react and we didn’t have any idea what was in store for us.

It is putting it mildly to say that it was a tough year as Carly had to undergo fifteen trips to the operating room and a total of nearly four months in intensive care. She has proven to be a mighty little girl though, and no matter what has been thrown her way she has risen to the challenge. Her amazing spirit seems to radiate from her and she has a way of bringing the best out of anyone that she meets. I can't help but feel privileged to have been trusted with the care of such an incredible little girl.

The love, prayers and healing energy that all of you (who we now know as Team Carly) have continuously sent out to Carly, Christa and me has carried us through all of the tough times and it continues to help Carly on her healing path today. It has been inspiring to see and feel the power of hope and love, and I don't know how we would have made it this far without you. We are so grateful for your support. Carly may still have a long way to go to get back to 100%, but with her amazing spirit and the power of Team Carly she can't be stopped.

Love,

Brad

15 comments:

NicciN said...

Wow, it has been quite a year. I too feel privileged to be a part of Team Carly and to feel all of the hope and love and inspiration that surrounds you three. Much love to you all as you continue on the journey.

Susan said...

Thanks for writing and reminding us all of Carly's amazing strength and the power of community. The journey continues...here's to a very healthy and happy Carly!

Love,

Susan

The Hunts said...

Amazing to read it has only been a year. You, Christa, and Carly are each so very strong. We will continue to keep you in our prayers. I can't wait to read about how wonderful her next year will be.

lee said...

The year has been so busy for the three of you that it just seemed to flow from bad to much more positive. I, too, believe there are no two people better suited to be blessed with the likes of Carly Grace. I like her stuffed animal. Bless you all.

Anonymous said...

Wow..I first met you 3 briefly at Outside Lands last year (then re-met you at Phish this year). What a year you have had. I'm constantly amazed at Carly's spirit and strength. I hope the next year is full of big steps for Carly. Always sending positive thoughts her way.
Nuwie (Heather from Ottawa)

The Hallers said...

Carly has brought so much hope and inspiration to so many people. She's united all of us as we all have one goal, one wish, one vision, and that is to see Carly be her strongest, happiest, and healthiest. We've come together to cheer her on, we read each other's sweet inspirational comments on this post and we all applaud you Brad, and you Christa, and you Dr. Gupta and everyone surrounding her for the resilience, positivity, great decision making and amazing instincts. Thank you SO much, Brad, for keeping us posted and for setting the positive tone, allowing us to only have the best in mind when we think of Carly.
And I just realized over this past weekend, that it's been one whole year that Layla, Chloe, me, my great uncle, my mother, my friends, etc. have been praying for this sweet little miracle.
We love Carly and we love you both.
All the very best is yet to come.
Proud Team Carly Member,
Mindy

JerseyGirl said...

What a beautiful photo of Carly. You would never know the year she's had from the picture; she looks so sweet and peaceful. She's a little angel. An amazing little girl from an amazing set of parents. Thanks, as always, for the continued updates. Always wishing for the best for Carly.
((HUGS))
Kristina

Paige said...

Such a beautiful babe and getting so big! What a year it's been for you all. Here's to the next one, full of growth, healing, and hope. xo

Anonymous said...

Dear Brad, Christa & our beautiful Carly,
Your East Coast Groupies (20 at last count, plus a church and 2 prayer groups) are so proud to be a part of Team Carly. We are inspired by your strength, hope and love. God bless you, your family and the medical teams that are always there for you.
We love the picture!!
And I hope to see you next time I'm out in CA!
Love, Beth ;)

Sheila said...

Carly brings out the best even in people she hasn't met. Just knowing that such tenacity and fighting spirit exists in this pure little package of cuteness, it's enough to inspire anyone to keep working toward progress, despite the obstacles that pop up along the way. She is an amazing little girl and we are so proud to be a part of her "team."

And on a personal note to you and Christa, I feel deeply thankful for having the privelege of being your friends and following you on this difficult journey. I have no doubt that I am a better person and parent from watching you two care for Carly. Your positivity, focus and love has really put things into perspective for so many of us.

We are always sending love to you three,
Sheila

Unknown said...

The Team Carly community of believers in the stength and power of positivity owes a thank you to and yours for believing in us. Happy New Year!

xoxo
Carrie & Rick

Gal said...

Carly's amazing spirit (and that of her parents) truly does radiate from her! It is incredible what can happen in a year, isn't it? You three continue to inspire me, and I am sending HUGE love to Carly. I miss seeing her in person... after just a few visits I was getting used to it. :) Lots of love.

JOC said...

Glad to hear things are going well and she's feeling better. hope to see you all soon

lance said...

Team Carly is the best! Precious picture of Carly and cheers to many, many years of healthy living.

Hugs and love,
Lance and Mark

Unknown said...

Here's to Carly continuing on her road to recovery. Glad to see her smile :-)
Stacy