We are home. Emma's recovery has been nothing short of remarkable. She has done in 5 days what unfortunately takes most gastroschisis babies months or more.

On Tuesday, Ashley and I took a stand by refusing to consent to Emma's 3rd and 4th potential surgeries. We compromised by allowing a surgery for a temporary catheter. The advantage being only one surgery to put the catheter in instead of one to place it and another to remove it. The surgeon warned us of all the complications that may arise any time a baby is intubated. We were terrified. Ten minutes before the surgeons were to arrive to take Emma away she had a bowel movement. I yelled at the nurse's like Paul Revere announcing that the British were coming. They passed along the news to the OR and the surgery was delayed for another day. Hours later, Emma pooped again and again. The next morning she started on 15ml of pedalyte which they expected she would vomit. She didn't and surgery was delayed for another day. On Wednesday they ordered us to increase her volume of pedalyte to 30-45ml which they expected she would vomit. She didn't. Thursday she started 30ml of breast milk without any complications. Friday was 45ml of breast milk - no complications. A healthy color returned to her face and belly. Saturday Dr. Rice and his team came to visit. The look on his face was of absolute astonishment. How was it possible that one of the worst cases he said that he had ever seen was now towards the end of the fastest recovery he had ever seen? He gave the word, "let's send you home".

I do not know and can not pretend to understand how fortune is divided among us all. Still, without support from each other and this community we would never have been in a position to be so fortunate. Many people prayed for Emma and many others offered words of encouragement. We are grateful to all of you who have been there every step of the way.