Wednesday, April 30, 2008

A Good Rest

I'm writing this from Ashlee's bedside using her fancy new laptop. She is sleeping peacefully at the moment. Today was a nice day of rest for her. I even got a smile out of her earlier when I told her more "embarrassing" pictures of Mitch were coming her way soon. I've learned to treasure every smile and laugh.

Last Sunday, the Knights of Columbus brought the traveling Our Lady of Fatima statue to the house. It is keeping watch over her from the end of her bed. It really is something to behold. We truly hope that miracles can still happen. It is difficult not to have your faith tested at a time like this. I have to still believe in God, even though I don't understand his purpose in this. Right now I just pray that we all can survive this ordeal and that Ashlee doesn't suffer needlessly.

I have to admit I sort of enjoy this time of day with her. It is quiet. All of the guests have left, everyone has gone to bed and it is just her and I. I can just watch her sleep. I find that it is a time where I can reflect and be thankful that we have survived another day. I pray that she will rest easy through the night and be able to build up a little bit of strength. It would be especially wonderful if we could tempt her appetite and have her eat some breakfast. Beyond a couple of sips of juice today, she had no nourishment by mouth. Of course she is still receiving her IV "food".

Carlee, Ashlee's sister wanted me to say Hello to everyone. She thanks everyone for their thoughts and prayers. They mean so much to our family right now. Judy went through a stack of letters and cards tonight from people who have never met Ash personally. It is very touching to us that so many strangers care.

I'm going to end this here. I didn't sleep at all last night, so perhaps I can get a couple of hours in tonight.

Much love to all!

~Heather

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

HI, my name is Laura Paramo.
I went to high school with Ashlee. I saw the bulletin on myspace. I just wanted to say hi to Ashlee although I've heard she's had a rough time remembering who people are. I'm really sorry about everything that's happening to her.
I also wanted to ask if it was ok...
I have a team for the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life of Joliet~ I've had one every year for 4 years now. Anyway this year I wanted to raise money in Ashlee's name and wanted to know if that was ok with her family?
The team will be composed mostly of fellow classmates, we're the Hearts of Steel. The relay takes place June 21-22.

Heather said...

Laura,

I told Ashlee that you were thinking of her. Not to worry, she still knows who everyone is. She smiled when I told her you sent her a message.

Walking in her honor for the Relay for Life would be fantastic. We may form a team ourselves, so make sure to look for us.

Thank you again for thinking of Ashlee.

Heather

Lisa Blaskie-White said...

Ashlee,

My prayers are with you, your mom, dad, & Carlee daily.

We go way back ... our days at Mommie Ann's. Debi always liked it in the summer when you girls were there. I've watched you grow through your dancing & acting years at the studio, & hanging out at your sister's dance competitions & conventions. You don't deserve this burden -- no one does.

On the days you are feeling your weakest, may our prayers raise your spirits & give you the strength to carry on.

Lisa White (Debi & Gina's mom)

Alyssa Plunge said...

I just wanna know if anything goes wrong will you contact me about Ashlee, My cell phone number is 815-560-2559. Ashlee has been my best friend since i was a Freshman and this is really hurting me. But if something does end up very wrong i want to know if you would call me please. Thank you!

:.:PRAY 4 ASH:.:

Michelle Hattan said...

Hello and thank you for starting this blog. My name is Michelle Hattan and I am one of Ashlee's friends from high school. I heard about her illness a little while ago, but never had any direct way to receive information. Ashlee and her family are in my prayers. I was wondering if it would be possible to visit Ashlee this Saturday May 10th with two of Ashlee's other high school friends Val Johnston and possibly Katie Gulas. We are finishing up finals at U of I and would love to see and talk with Ashlee. If this is possible, please let me know. I know she is having a rough time and I do not want to overwhelm her with visitors. Also, if she needs anything please let me know. God bless you all.

Thank you,
Michelle Hattan