The Grabb Family

Hey We are Alive

2010-04-08T15:20:00.001-04:00

Sorry everyone for the lack of updates! We are alive! Just working, trying to keep up with three active boys, and put together the Fun Run this year!

Try to update on our great adventures soon that we had over spring break!

Love,
Terri and Crew

Health Care Reform

2009-09-21T16:20:00.002-04:00

I am opposed to health care reform and specifically government run health care.
What bothers me is that we would allow our goverment that has not had the ability to run military health care in any fashion that allows for quick and easy access and put that into place through out our country. No that is not wise. We would allow for the government to tell families that your child's life is not worth saving because of this illness or diagnosis. We would stop advances in medical treatments and researching for answers and cures in devestating life threatening illnesses. As research and treatments are expensive and cost verses life is what the government is placing a price tag on each child's life. How much is your child's life worth to you?

Do you realize that with this new plan you HAVE to open the door and allow the government into your home to inspect and determine if you have a safe and secure home for your child. That you are a capable parent. This to is written into the plan and being spoken of very little.

My sweet Aunt read the enire bill. Here is a short one page glimpse of just some of what is in the bill. This is not all of it just some. Please take the time to write to your congressman to voice your opinion.

EXCERPTS FROM THE HOUSE VERSIONOF THE HEALTH CARE REFORM
BILL: THE "AFFORDABLE HEALTH CHOICES ACT OF 2009" H.R. 3200
(Approved August 1, 2009 by the House Energy and Commerce Committee)
DIVISION A - AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE CHOICES
Title I - Protections and Standards for Qualified Health Care Plans
- prohibits preexisting conditions
- establishes a Health Benefit Advisory Committee to determine what treatments are covered and how much
providers will be paid
- sets limits on how much health benefit is provided each year (individual and family)
- provides care "without regard to personal characteristics" (includes non-U.S. citizens, illegal or otherwise)
Title II - Health Insurance Exchange and Related Provisions
- mandates that medical services must be "culturally and linguistically appropriate"
- participating physicians must accept Federally established payment rates
Title IV - Amendments to Internal Revenue Code of 1986
- adds Section 59B "tax on individuals without acceptable health care coverage"
- adds Section 59C - "surcharge on high income individuals"
DIVISION B - MEDICARE AND MEDICAID IMPROVEMENTS
Title I - Improving Health Care Value
- places a value ("value units") on doctors' time, professional judgment, technical skill, physical effort",etc.
- Sec. 1151 penalizes hospitals for "excess readmissions"
- payment to doctors is based on "outcomes of care" and "quality performance data"
- Sec. 1181 eliminates Medicare Part D coverage gap
- drug prices are largely set by the Federal government
Title II - Medicare Beneficiary Improvements
- every 5 years, those 65 and over MUST have "Advance Care Planning Consultations" about end of life care
- if health deteriorates, Advance Planning Consultations will be mandated more often
- Government-"specified interventions" will be limited (e.g., hydration, nutrition, medication, comfort care)
- the Federal government will oversee "marriage and family services"
- the Federal government will oversee "mental health counseling services"
- the Federal government will investigate nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities (termed "transparency")
- the Federal government will investigate hospice programs
- the Federal government will establish hospital residency requirements and give preference to compliant
hospitals
- Medicaid eligibility will increase to 133-1/3% of Federal poverty level
- fees will be levied on issuers of private health insurance policies as well as on self-insured health plans
- home visitation will be conducted in homes with young children or who are expecting children
DIVISION C - PUBLIC HEALTH AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Title I,II,III - Community Health Centers, Workforce, Prevention and Wellness
- the Federal government will establish new bureaucracies and institutions, including Community Health
Centers, Public Health Training Centers, School-Based Health Clinics, the National Health Service
Corps (regular and reserve), the Public Health Workforce Corps, the Nursing Workforce, and others
- the various workforces will receive scholarships and loans, and will be recruited from "community-based
organizations", such as ACORN, not from the existing medical personnel in the United States
- the Federal government will be involved in training primary care physicians, nurses, and dentists
- health care professionals must have "cultural and linguistic competency training"
Title IV, V - Quality and Surveillance
- the Federal government will establish a Center for Quality Improvement, to "evaluate best clinical practices"
- a new position will be created for the Assistant Secretary for Health Information
- the government will limit funding to States "based on compliance...with all provisions"
REMEMBER!!! NOT ONE WORD IN THIS BILL APPLIES TO YOUR CONGRESSMEN!!! HOW FAIR IS THAT?

Snakes, Snails and Puppy Dog Tails... And Many other creepy crawly creatures

2009-09-15T13:35:00.000-04:00

These are the types of things I wish I never got to meet in life!

I find these little animals in little boys pockets...
I find them in my bathroom along with some other friends the kind that don't have legs and terrify me!
I find frogs, toads, cicada's and many many more crazy animals, bugs and reptiles.... Oh my!

They really really need a baby sister!

Where O where are you??

2009-09-03T12:14:00.004-04:00

Summer, Where did you go? I know you were here but you quickly vanished before our very own eyes!

We have been busy doing things like this

and a little of this...

And of course some of our favorite past time....

Come back to us Summer!!! We are not ready for our friend Fall to show up!

Terri and Family

Lazy Days of Summer

2009-06-15T13:38:00.002-04:00

Well, in four short days summer will begin for the boys. We have Aiden and Gunnar taking a week of Basketball camp and then we have a week at the beach but otherwise we will be hanging out just lazing around the house, pool and parks. I am sure we will find a lot to do even though we have little scheduled.

I am working now with the day care. I have three cute kids. Working on adding one more family. So we will see how that goes. So far the kids I have are really great.

Travis is still working hard to find a job or even buy a business. This economy is tough. So keep praying folks we need a job for my sweet hubby.

The boys have finished up testing and all the year end events with it. We watched Brodie in his Goin' Buggy Play, Aiden had his many year end field trips and Gunnar's class had their Virginia Day activities. I am not sure why we have to send them for four days of play but so be it.

That's all that has been happening. Nice and quiet on this front. Praying for a job or great business opportunity for Travis.

All our Love,
Terri and Crew

Happenings

2009-05-10T13:35:00.002-04:00

Nothing much has really been going on here. Travis is still searching for a job. It has been 5 months since he worked at United. We have 1 month left to the severance package they gave him. He has a couple of leads he is working on. We are praying that they work out.

I just received my license for Day Care so that is set up and will start with my first family in two weeks. So that should help us as well until the time comes when Travis is working again.

The boys are finishing up school. Taking their SOL testing and really ready for summer to begin. We have some camping trips planned and some fun outings that we can't wait to go on.

Otherwise not much going on. Please pray Travis gets a job/

Thanks Everyone.
T and Crew

Today

2009-03-04T10:15:00.002-05:00

These past few days I have been really missing my sweet Corbin. I have been feeling so overwhelmed with emotion of it all and not sure why. I wake up and see his sweet bear and memory box on the top of our dresser. His sweet picture of me and his brothers and just want to cry for what isnt and what was, wishing to have just one more moment in time with him. You would think this far out those feelings would not be so overwhelming.

The boys did great for the invention fair. Aiden was REALLY sick and was out of it. He ended up with Strep throat as well, but of course things did not go well when he took his medication. He had a terrible allergic reaction and ended up on some serious antihistamines to counter react the reaction so when he had to present his invention he was loopy! Brodie stepped up and spoke for him and they ended up receiving a silver ribbon. Aiden and Brodie invented silverware that told you the temperature of food so you knew when it was safe to take a bite.

Gunnar did great. Him and his friend received a Gold ribbon for their invention. They invented a Game Charging Station and Tracker. I was suprised as both boys are known for being so soft spoken and NEVER speak up. So this was great practice for them to learn that adults are not scary and they can talk to them.

Gunnar is turning 10 on Monday!! Can you believe that? I can't it is hard to believe my oldest is now in the double digets.

Travis is still working hard at finding a new job. So far nada but as we say you only need one so we trust God and know it will be out there.

Take care everyone,
Terri

Strep, Strep and More Strep!!!

2009-02-19T14:46:00.002-05:00

Brodie enjoys being sick way to much!! He loves snuggling on the couch. Getting to stay home with Mom and Dad. He just takes it all in and enjoys it.
He is still sick with strep we are trying another type of antibiotic and praying this one does the job.
We also have Gunnar on crutches. He has a bad sprain to his foot and is not to use it for a few weeks.
They had a great time Jump Roping for Hearts. I have some pictures loaded on my camrea that I will get posted soon. Next week they have the invention fair and I will post that soon as well.

Love you all.
TnT

Our Friend Strep

2009-02-08T08:14:00.003-05:00

We love having company and friends over. This friend that is visiting is not a welcomed guest. This guest is the kind that not only does things like pee on your toilet seat, but also overstays his welcome, eats all your groceries and makes disgusting noises at the dinner table.
Our lovely unwanted uninvited guest strep is here. We are still awaiting for the Doctor to call to tell us if others in the family have been affected by this visit. (remember last year we had this guest visiting for over a year, talk about overstaying your welcome) Poor Brodie has the fever, sore throat, stomach ache,head ache and the worst is the full body rash with itching as well. Talk about miserable!

On the fun side of things all three boys are in the invention fair this year. They will present their inventions the end of this month and are so excited about it. Gunnar and Aiden are also jumping for American Heart Association. This year the boys amazing P.E. teacher has made the Jump Rope for Heart in memory of Corbin. He has the whole school participating.

Well that is about it for the Gang!

Off to snuggle and love on my little guy!
TnT

The Recovery

2009-01-14T18:59:00.002-05:00

Brodie is doing much better now that his system has cleaned out the prednisone. He was really sick for some time. He had fevers that would come and go for days. He was placed on three seperate antibiotics over a weeks time because of how many infections hit his little body from no immune system. He has recovered and is back at school this week. Thank you very much!

The other boys are doing great as well as Travis. They had their go cart class and received their license they were so excited. They can't wait to go back for more.

Take Care Everyone,

Also we posted our adoption update on the other website. Please feel free to email me to get that website as it requires an invitation to read.
TTGAB

New Year, Another ER Visit!!

2009-01-04T07:33:00.002-05:00

The Drama of it all! Brodie became sick with his asthma symptoms after Christmas. I was not able to keep him from coughing and breathing well with just the nebulizer and inhaled steroid. So the Doctor prescribed an oral steroid. The next day we saw a huge change in Brodie, he was breathing much better but complaining of stomach pain, mouth pain. The next day was even worse with more drama of behavior as well. Uncontrolled crying and weeping stopped eating and overall just not doing well. By Saturday he was still complaining so I took him to the Dollar theathre to distract him while there he started screaming in pain about head. We could not get him under control so we took him to the ER. We found out that Brodie had been overdosed in prednisone. It has whipped out his immune system and caused thrush, double ear infections and the stomach pain, crawling skin, low pottasium which was causing his heart rate to be to high and beat unevenly, high blood pressure, and severe mood swings. So they flushed his system with IV fluids and took him off the medication, he is now on antibiotics and should get better quickly. Just a little Drama for the New Year.

Hope everyone has a great New Year!

Terri and Crew

2008-12-13T19:35:00.001-05:00

Christmas oh my...

2008-12-10T07:25:00.008-05:00

Where oh where has the time gone!!! I know when my parents told me that as they got older they felt the fast forward button was being pressed on time but I never took them serious. Well, now I completely understand what they mean by that. Oh my goodness has it flown.

They boys are doing fabulous. We have had a great school year so far. Can you believe we are just one month shy of finishing a half a year!

We have taken our Christmas photos as well. Here is a little picture of the boys christmas picture.

Getting all three boys to take a group picture is so hard now that I have a TWEEN yes, we have a boy who thinks he should be a teenager, oh my ( I am not ready for this stage) I have to tell him exactly how many times the flash will go off and then he is done! So needless to say this child can't stand posing for our Christmas picture time.

So here is our Tween, our book lover, he always has his nose in a book! He loves autobiographies, reading about history, mysteries, and adventure stories.

Here is our sweet little crazy boy. He always seems to find trouble. I am sure it follows him around his friend destruction. He is so funny and loves adventure. He is always on the full blast and never slows down. You got to love his love for life he has A LOT of it! : )

This little guy is growing up so fast. He has learned all his letter and sounds this year. He is now reading as well. What happened to our little guy, who told him he could grow up so fast! This little guy loves to have his picture taken and is always asking for that as well. So getting this cute face on film is so easy besides him being cute he will pose for hours for you.

So next year we hope to have added to our family by one or two more God willing. You can follow our adoption story on our other website. Due to privacy issues that blog is not open to everyone. So email us if you would like to be included in receiving those updates. We are doing great and excited to see what this next year brings.

God bless and May you have a wonderful Christmas this year and many blessings.
The Grabb Family

I lasted 1 minute 9 seconds

2008-10-16T21:28:00.000-04:00

1 minute, 9 seconds

Created by Bunk Beds Pedia

Corbin's Fun Run 2008

2008-09-28T20:34:00.002-04:00

Corbin's Fun Run 2008 photos. Yes, I know it has been forever long. Sorry it has taken so long to put this up.

Take care everyone.
Love,
T N T

Yeah for School!

2008-09-02T06:50:00.003-04:00

So excited that school starts today! We can get into our routine and back to normal (whatever that is)! Praying this year we visit the Doctor much LESS (although Brodie has ruined it for us so far with his finger injury)! My thought is that the boys should be able to fight off all those school germs since being in school one year and exposed to it otherwise I might go crazy by the time all this ends.

I am missing our little Corbin a lot lately. Watching the boys doing all these new things, seeing Corbin's little buddies start school and preschool for the first time. It makes me a little sad. Trying to stay focused on the truth He doesn't care that he is missing it as he is having a far better time in heaven than on earth.

Posting Pictures later today of Brodie's HAND, and school!

Love,
Terri

Summer's End

2008-08-28T15:25:00.002-04:00

I can't believe summer is ending and School is to begin in 4 short days! In so many ways it seems summer was never here. I know that my parents always said that the older you get the faster time goes. Well I must be as old as dirt because I feel like I just woke up and summer slipped away over night.

We were extremely busy this summer and that is probably why. What fun were we up to this summer well we had some great times in between some very trying times. Our summer started out with illness. Travis, Gunnar and Brodie all sick with different things but finally we were able to get out of the house and start playing. We put on another amazing Corbin's Fun Run this year! With tons of help from many wonderful friends and family.

We then went off for a super family vacation to the bay. We spent two weeks camping, swimming, boating, eating tons of marshmellows and hot dogs. Aiden decided to throw in a trip to the ER by dislocating his shoulder. The very next day he was perfectly fine and ready to go at it all over again. (TO BE YOUNG AGAIN)

We came home freshened up our clothes then off to my sisters we went. This trip began very badly! Our first day out Brodie fell forward on a wagon at the Detroit Zoo and his hand was stuck under the wheel of the wagon. It was badly damaged (no skin left on the fingers of his hand)! He was rushed by ambulance for fear that he was going to loose his 2nd finger. Thankfully he is recovering ok. It will be a long recover but is ok. He is unable to use his main hand but like a champ handling it all well. (THIS JUST GLOSSES OVER HOW YUCKY AND HARD IT WAS TO SEE HIM IN SUCH PAIN)

As you can see I am thankfull in some ways we were to come home and begin getting ready for school so we could take a breather. Its time to get back to work and quit goofing off.

We had Brodie's SIXTH birthday party last night. Yes, I cried buckets of tears that my little boy is six! Where did the time go?

Well off to make Popcorn for my little guys!

Terri and Crew

Yeah New Look!!!!

2008-07-26T18:33:00.002-04:00

So I finally got around to giving our blog a new look! I customized it myself and did a pretty good job I must say! :)

We are all doing great! The run went wonderful. I did not get to enjoy it as much this year as last as I was working my tail off and it was over before I new it. Then we had a whirl wind day. We did Corbin's birthday butterfly release with everyone that afternoon as well so it was a non stop weekend. Hopefully I can put pictures up soon. Jewel took some amazing photos that I LOVE of Brodie and at the cemetery at the butterfly release.

We are off for a month leaving Dad to work while the boys and I take a summer fling before school starts.

So we will update on our adventures when we get back and hopefully by then the photographer will have the photos ready.

Love
The Grabb Crew

Photos

2008-05-28T21:14:00.000-04:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Finally an Update

2008-03-28T09:30:00.004-04:00

Well,

I figured I had better give a real update on how we are all doing.

We have finally gotten rid of the strep virus from our home. I had thought that it would never leave after it lived here for almost 18 months but it is gone! Gunnar will need to have his tonsils and adnoids out but we will face that this summer maybe if I have the courage to schedule it. I hate the thought of him going through the surgery so we have been very hesitant to put him through it.

The boys are all doing great. Gunnar received an award for his invention at the Innovation and Invention Fair. Aiden is in a play that is coming up in school. Brodie has decided that he wants to learn and is taking off in learning his letters and desires to read! I never thought it would happen but it is, he is growing up.

All three boys are taking Piano lessons from a wonderful young lady that graciously comes to our home and gives them lessons. Brodie LOVES it. He tells everyone that he can't have play dates after school anymore because he needs to go home to practice his piano.

We are grateful spring has arrived. The boys are staying outside until dark and have stopped destroying the house and are now back to their antics of yard play, sword fighting, dirt bike riding, building jumps, swinging on vines and all other wild and crazy things they can come up with. Travis is right there with them encouraging and following along with them as well. I really need adult supervision around here at times! :)

Travis is racing one weekend a month throughout spring and summer. Hopefully we will get the chance to go see him race (If I get the courage up). The boys are wanting to sign up for swim team this year so we will possibly be doing that with them. I have not made up my mind. I love to have my summers off so we can travel so I am not yet ready to give them up.

We are in full swing with Corbin's Fun Run 2008. It is officially up and running. We have our first four sponsors, the date set for July 19th, the park reserved again. So I have been busy with that along with taxes and paperwork for the IRS and accountant as well. I am hoping to spend the day doing scrapbooks with Penny in April but we will see.

For spring break we went to the movies, visited a local farm, went swimming, had a day of dental work done (teeth took a major hit from the high dose antibiotics they were on) went on an egg hunt, birthday parties, and colored easter eggs. I was disappointed that I did not get a pajama day! :( Brodie was sad that he did not get to the nature center. Just not enough time to do it all!

This month we will be going to Ohio to spend the weekend with my sister's family in a water park. We usually spend spring break together but this year had seperate weeks so we made a weekend date instead. Everyone is looking forward to that.

Travis has been working, volunteering and helping our with ALPHA at our church Sovereign Grace of Fairfax and spending lots of time playing in the garage fixing up his car.

So thats what we have been up to! Sorry for the lack of updates.

Terri and the BOYZS

VIR NASA Thunder 02/24/08

2008-03-02T21:12:00.001-05:00

Travis is Official

2008-02-28T17:08:00.002-05:00

Yes, folks that is right Travis has his race license!

Below is his first official race. Its heart stopping!

Yes, I may need to start coloring my hair very soon!

Love,
Terri and Family

VIR Full 022308 NASA Thunder Race Start

2008-02-28T17:06:00.001-05:00

Start of my first race after passing Comp School the day before.

Cork Screw in the House??

2008-01-04T16:59:00.000-05:00

Just Pliers???

No maybe a corncob holder and pliers will do the job?? Notice the strain on his face!!! He is working hard for this!!!

Hey, the corncob holder came out but where is the cork??? Dang, it didn't work!

Back to just the pliers and the cork again!! Hmm will this really work!
No, folks they did finally find a corkscrew! Ah, family, who else can you laugh at so well.

Love You Jeff and Ray!!!!

Grocery Shopping Woes

2007-12-13T21:05:00.000-05:00

I am known by many especially my husband and sisters by for my grocery shopping abilities. For years, starting when I was in high school and had to grocery shop for my parents it was a disaster. I would find other things to do, continue to put it off until I had to do it and then find that I had misplaced the money my parents gave me. My sister Sherri and I when we lived together would use our grocery money not on groceries. My husband bemoans how I can go to the store with a list and still manage to forget buy half the items on it. So my inability to shop has a long history.

I am proud to say I have taken my shopping difficulties to a new horizon this holiday season!!!

Over Thanksgiving Sherri and I went out and did all the shopping for our big dinner. After purchasing all the groceries on the list, forgetting to stop at one store on the list (the florist) and coming home we began making the many side dishes for the dinner. After a few hours it became apparent that there were items missing??? We were certain we bought them. My receipt showed I did succeed in purchasing these groceries. So by Thanksgiving morning we finally realize that HALF the groceries I bought were left at the STORE!!! You are probably asking how can someone possibly leave only half their groceries at the store. Admitting to yourself that many of you have driven off leaving all of your groceries in front of the store, but still confused as to how someone leaves half of a 200.00 grocery cart at the store. Having left all of my groceries several times, a bag or two at the store, I too am confused as to how I managed to bring home only half. Yes, if you need your grocery shopping done feel free to call me. I am sure to get it done eventually. We ended up going back to the store between that afternoon AND Thanksgiving day no less than 6 times to repurchase all those items I forgot.

So with great joy we head into the Christmas holiday and it is always questionable if we have the actual items I purchased. Sad isn't it. I am sure the stores love me. I share this wonderful story with you so you may laugh and maybe even commiserate in your shopping ability or lack there of. This past week, I managed to forget only one bag at the store!
Heads up Safeway I will be shopping tomorrow!

Happy Shopping
Terri

Merry Christmas

2007-12-08T11:53:00.000-05:00

The Three Grabb Boys

They have reached the age when I can no longer talk them into letting me get them matching outfits! :) So now we just do favorite sweaters! And of course we have to include Corbin Bear!

Gunnar

Can you believe he is 8 years old!!! Soon 9, how time flys.

Aiden,

As always lots of smiles and love to share!

Sweet little Bro Bro! How sad I am to see him grow up. Yet he is on me.

My Beautiful Boys!

If you ever talk to me on the phone you can always hear the chaos in the background. The loud wrestling, the loud playing and of course the loud laughter. Through it all they are best friends with a lot of love for each other!

How I love my boys! So precious, so sweet!

Happy Holidays from the Grabb Family!

Thanksgiving

2007-11-30T13:08:00.000-05:00

We had a great Thanksgiving in Michigan with our family. The boys loved visiting with all their cousins. We had over 26 of us in one house. My sister Sherri was very kind to let us all over run her house. It was fun catching up and being together with all my sisters.

The boys are not feeling well currently all three have strep throat. We have been snuggling a lot on the couch and watching TV. I have to admit that I don't like the day we have to run to the doctors office but enjoy the day after when we can relax at home snuggling in bed and on the couch.

We are getting ready for the holidays. I am amazed how each day there is an ache in our hearts for Corbin. Some days it is just a dim pain, others it is an agonizing overwhelming blinding pain searing deep into the souls of our hearts. Brodie still talks about when Corbin comes home how he will play with this toy or wear this shirt like him. We have stopped explaining that Corbin is not coming home.

For me, the holidays are just hard. Missing Corbin and my parents, the holidays are a time when it makes the hole in my life and heart feel like a spasm of darkness before me. Yet, with that I remember to enjoy each day. Cherish the holidays with the boys and take nothing for granite.

All our Love,
Terri and Family

Hey Hi Everyone!!!!

2007-10-05T17:21:00.000-04:00

Just a short Hello to let you know we are all doing ok!

We had a small adventure as many of you heard about! While watching a friend do an adventure quest race at the local park we had a small emergency. Gunnar fell on a SNAKE and of course it was poisonous and OF COURSE it bit him! So off we went to spend a few days in the wonderful Fairfax Hotel! A short vacation for Travis, Gunnar and I. He is doing alright. His arm and wound is healing well. He did require antivenom to be administered, through out the entire event he was stable.

We are getting back on track and into a routine.

We also have finalized the Logo for the Foundation! So all you logo buyers out there, here is the website that you can buy logo gear from and a profit of the sales will go toward the foundation which we will send the money of for CHD research!

CMG Heart Foundation Store at CafePress!

Corbin's Fun Run Store at CafePress!

We also had the great pleasure of visiting the new Children's hospital. It was great. They did a fabulous job and it will be opening very soon!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Terri

School Time

2007-09-18T10:17:00.000-04:00

Well our little boys are all in school. Yes, all three are going to Clifton Elementary these days. I know some of you just fell off your seats.

Gunnar LOVES school at Clifton. He is enjoying his teacher, classmates and the work. Brodie is so funny about school. He told us after his first day, "My Bus Driver is CRAZY!" She keeps stopping the bus and I slide off the seat. Aiden is having some what of a hard time adjusting to school. We are working through a lot of anxiety that has surfaced. He told us that he is afraid when he leaves me someone else will die. Heart breaking that our 6 year old son is so afraid to leave me because of the fear someone else he knows will die. He has a great counselor, teacher and staff to support him. I am attending the school to do lunch time and recess with him. I am sure soon he will learn that when Mommy leaves him somewhere it doesn't mean that someone is dying.

Brodie as usual has much to say. Yesterday he came off the bus to tell me he "I invited a chick over to play with me Mom! I can't remember her name but she is a girl!" Got to love that crazy kid. He is also learning about Bears. His homework was to learn two bear facts. The only bear fact we seem to get out of him is "Bears poop like this!" along with a demonstration. I am praying he has NOT shared this fact at school.

I am still teaching Astronomy at the Church co op on Thursdays. Now, volunteering at the school, and staying busy. Travis has found his past love of Mountain biking and started that up with the boys again. They are building jumps, "skinnys" and many other contraptions to ride on. I would love to see them take up Olympic knitting or some other boring calm sport. I dare say there is no such luck in that.

Well that is all that is going on at the Grabb Zoo.
Terri for all

Jason's Fontan

2007-09-09T18:43:00.000-04:00

As many of you know we are very close to the York family. Jason had his Fontan on wednesday. It was scary. Jason has never had an easy course and has undergone 6 surgeries. With his blood disorder it has been very difficult to operate on this young man. We have kept in close contact with Rachel and Mike. So after Jason's rocky start with the Fontan it was decided that I would fly up and spend some time with Rachel. Jason turned the corner and is doing very well. He needs to finish draining from his chest tubes and then will be sent home.

Here is a slide show of our Jason during his Fontan. How we love the Yorks and are so excited that Jason is doing well.

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Terri and Crew

Corbin's Fun Run 2007 Video

2007-08-12T10:22:00.000-04:00

2007-08-11T14:30:00.000-04:00

Long Over Due

2007-08-04T07:43:00.000-04:00

I know I am long overdue for an update, so here you go.

Life just whizzes by me. I try hard to just hang on to the coat tails and pray I don't let go and fall off. Who knows where I may land!

We celebrated Corbin's 3rd birthday on July 20th with an amazing tribute to his life at the cemetary with many families. The occasion was filled with laughter, squeeling children and lots of energy. As I gazed out at the mass of children (over 15 kids at his graveside) I whispered up to him and said Oh my son how right this is. For you loved these children. You loved to chase, play and wrestle each one. May we always remember your love and joy for life. Your smiles and joyful approach to all things. So we had a time of prayer and then we released butterflys to send butterfly kisses to Corbin. Each of the Children decorated the grave with handmade pinwheels.

We had an amazing and wonderful first Annual Corbin's Fun Run. I was overwhelmed and at times speechless with tears at the many who came out and asked us to continue and do it again next year. We made THOUSANDS of dollars to go to CHD research. It was incredible. I am working on a slide show so it should be up soon.

This past few weeks since the event have been catching our breath and regaining our energy.
As Brodie approaches his time to begin school. Yes, he is entering into Kindergarten at the local school here. He is very excited but has some things to say about it that make us laugh. Gunnar and Aiden told Brodie that "Brodie is going to PRISON!" after the comment made with Grand Penny that a school looks like a prison. You can tell my children have been home schooled and never even entered into a school before to know the difference. Brodie went on to tell Grand Penny and Poppy that "There are bullys at my school and I am going to beat them up!" So I have some small worries over how the first few days of school will go but praying it is peaceful.

Life with three boys is incredibly busy. At times I wonder how a Mother survives the childhood years. I once heard a lady talk about her dogs that she could only let two out to play at a time if you let more than that they act like a pack and make bad choices. I think the same goes for BOYS.

This past week we have had to scrub berry juice out of there hair and skin because they got the bright idea to make themselves into Umpa Lumpas from Charlie and The Choclate Factory. Then they proceeded to top the afternoon off with making a mud bubble bog and taking our 2 year old neighbor boy into the mud bog and trying to make him a different color! Yes, we went through no less than 5 showers that day, a ton of clothes and lots of my patience! I did avert one small disaster when I stopped Gunnar and Aiden from tying Brodie to the ceiling fan to see if he could fly like Peter Pan.

They currently have found their love for making ramps and jumps for their mountain bikes. I am off to make sure everyone has all body parts intact. This is probably why I don't update very much as they are keeping me way to busy!

All our Love,
Terri and the WILD boys.

The Fun Run

2007-07-09T21:20:00.000-04:00

Dear Friends, I just wanted to send you a quick reminder about Corbin's Fun Run on Saturday, July 21 at Burke Lake Park, starting 8am. The event includes a 5-mile run and a 1-mile walk. Organized in memory of my son, the purpose is to raise money to fight CHD. Proceeds go to Children's National Medical Center in Washington, DC and Inova Fairfax Hospital's Tender Hearts, a wonderful local support group for families with kids with CHD. Advance registration closes July 16, so if you plan on participating please register soon, preferably on-line instead of by mail. Visit Corbin's Fun Run to register. You can also register the day of the race starting at 6:45am (but we won't be able to guarantee that you'll get one of our cool T-shirts if you wait, so sign up early!) Hope to see you all there!

For all you Angel Heart Mom's out there Please email me a picture, name, dates of birth and passing of your child. We are going to be doing something special with the photos. I will email you to let you in on the secret! tgrabb@cox.net

On the Home front: We had a really nice get away. Thanks to the Long Family for letting us use an amazing cabin. The James and Schaaf Families for tagging along, keeping us very busy, for the special memory box, the candle ceremony and balloon release. You are awesome friends. Aiden is on antibiotics for his leg and joints as they have found markers for lymes disease. He is doing well. Walking better and feeling much more like himself. He is not allowed to run, ride a bike or jump for several weeks. That has been our hardest struggle. Thanks for checking on us and come on out and walk with us (Notice I said walk! :) ) Terri and Crew

Today

2007-06-24T20:32:00.000-04:00

Many people have warned me how hard these coming weeks would be but never did I realize how hard it truly was going to be. Lately I am close to tears each morning and it takes me a few hours to get myself together so entering the church I had not had time to compose myself and get my thoughts together. Then upon sitting down and opening the church bulletin what did I see the July Calendar with all the July birthdays. What struck me and caused a rush/flood of emotion was the empty spot of Corbin's Name in those July birthdays. Realization of the finality of his death hits once again. The ability to wipe a name off our calendar in one moment. A day and time I, and I pray that my family, will never forget but one that is easily erased from existance of all others. In one moment I realize where we are at and why were are here one year later. Barely able to breath and almost to the point of panic I left the church to regain my composure. I ask myself will these moments slow down and not affect me so. Then I cry harder to realize that then that would mean that it would be many years that I would have last seen my son. The empty ache in my arms overwhelms me and makes me feel like I have lead for limbs. With a rawness and ache so deeply we come upon the time when we had to say goodbye to Corbin. This time last year I was numb this year I am an open wound bleeding freely and not sure how to stop the blood loss.
How I miss him.
Terri

Happenings in the Grabb household

2007-05-28T20:56:00.000-04:00

Well, we have had a lot going on here.

The boys are finishing up soccer season. They have finished with the homeschool co op as well. They had their year end program and did just awesome. I wish we could have taped their sign language song. They were so cute!

We have registered Brodie up for Kindergarten at the local school. He is so very excited. He had a bus ride as well. I cried and cried to see my little boy get on that bus like a big boy.

We are still doing school through the summer to catch up.

I traveled to U of M for the memorial service for Corbin and the other babies at the hospital. That in itself is a whole update.

We have begun to remodel the bathrooms at the house which I am very excited about. Our community garden is growing very well. MC all your beans are growing great!!!!

Corbin's Memorial Run is getting geared up. We are in full swing with that. My sister did an awesome Heart Quilt that is beyond words that we are raffling off. The boys are crying about the quilt being raffled.

Well thats about it.

Try to update soon.
Terri

One Year

2007-04-12T08:50:00.000-04:00

It is hard to believe it has been One year that we took Corbin to the U of M. The emotions and the memories overwhelm me. How unaware I was of what was to come. How I had such faith that this was the surgery that Corbin would fly through as he had so much trouble in the past and this one he was facing at his strongest and felt the best about! Yet, now we look around us and see an empty space at the dinner table, in the car, everywhere, and especially in our hearts.

Yet, with all the emotion flowing through me I am happy for Corbin. As he has WON his fight with this disease! He is HEALED!!!! I can't wait to see him healed and running, playing and free of tubes!

And so we begin the next three months of harsh memories. Please keep us in your prayers as we try to only remember his wonderful time at home and not dwell on the sad memories of these times last year. May we remember the truth and God's promises to us that we WILL see him again!

God Bless,
Terri and Crew

Corbin's Fun Run

2007-03-21T16:50:00.000-04:00

With a lot of hard work from many great people in our lives we are able to announce the

First Annual Corbin Fun Run!!!!

July 21 2007

8:00am

Race kicks off at Shelter A at Burke Lake Park, Burke VA

Please visit the website to register and if you have any questions please use the email link on the registration page

http://www.corbinsfunrun.net

Thank you so much for all your support. Please pray that this event will go well and we can raise a lot of funds for CHD research!

God Bless,

Terri and Crew

Disney Trip

2007-03-03T19:32:00.001-05:00

Our family vacation to disney world.

Walt Disney Trip

2007-03-03T13:48:00.000-05:00

Well we are back from our trip. It was a great time. Moments of complete sadness but overall it was tons of fun. I can't say relaxing as much walking and work it all was but it was wonderful to see the children having such a great time.

There were only a few times when the children and Travis and I were overwhelmed with tears from missing Corbin. We worked through it and still managed to enjoy our time. It was a real joy to see Gunnar with such an expression of excitement and pleasure on his face. I can't remember how long it has been that we have seen him relax and take the world of his shoulders.

Well, we will leave you with some photos, enjoy!

God Bless,

Terri

Corbin's Fun Run

2007-02-20T07:18:00.000-05:00

Hey, Keep checking in because we have a date, time and place for our first annual run to raise money for CHD!!!!

Many thanks to Diane, Hope, Diane, Jennifer and many others for working hard to make this happen. We are so excited as the date has worked out to be right after Corbin's birthday! We hope that many of you can join us.

Check out the website and stay tuned for registration!!!!

Terri

Congenital Heart Day

2007-02-14T10:43:00.000-05:00

What does this day mean to you??? Does it mean Chocolate and Kisses, Love and Romance???

For our family that is what this day meant up until three years ago, now it means tiny broken hearts being mended. Hearts struggling to pump, little blue hands, feet and lips. Babies who struggle to even drink out of a bottle. Medications to give, blood pressure to check, heart rates and respiration's to be aware of. For us families coming home to empty cribs, car seats, and high chairs because their children's heart is now healed but that healing did not occur on this earth but in heaven. So now instead of their children's broken hearts they move forward with their broken heart.

Valentines Day for us will always remind us not of Love and Romance, Chocolate and Kisses but of the Warriors Who Fight so Bravely and the Families that Go on each day since their child's ultimate healing.

Terri and Family

In a Funk

2007-02-06T09:23:00.000-05:00

Lately I have been in a real funk. Missing Corbin so much that at times it is a physical pain. I am finding it hard to motivate myself to do what I need to do around the house and for the family. I am really dreading this trip to Florida! It is supposed to be one of joy but so far it has brought lots of pain! I miss my Dad and my son so much!

I hate feeling this way yet I can't seem to shake it off! When oh when will it all end! How I long for HEAVEN!!!!

On a funny note, Aiden has taken up a new trade! He has become a barber a not so good one according to our beautiful neighbor girls. Yes, he cut not only his own hair but also our two neighbor girls hair as well. YES, HE CUT OFF A SWEET GIRLS BANGS!!!!! It is never good when a babysitter calls you while you are out! The funny comment that he made to us was "Mom it just didn't turn out how I thought it would!"

I don't know about that kid!

Brodie managed to break his glasses, yes his glasses that I think they plated with gold since they cost so much!!!! The ones that they tell you are made for kids so they don't break!!!

Our insurance fight is still going on with Blue Cross and U of M. Apparently U of M has not received payment because Corbin is not insured??? He was removed from the policy and that removes them from the responsibility of paying. Yes, it has gotten ugly especially as I yell into the phone at the poor lady that the reason our son was removed from their policy is that he is dead!!!! Yes, I had the poor girl crying. U of M has been very good about waiting but can't file any more until they get this situation repaired. Corbin was insured and is covered but for some computer and human malfunction they view him as uninsured and not on the policy since he was removed in July of 2006!!! Yes, after his death which they did once they received the information from the hospital! Can I tell you how much I despise insurance companies and all the mess with it! The system really needs to change, not sure how but it does.

Well there is my funk!

Terri

Governer's Letter

2007-01-20T08:01:00.000-05:00

We received an incredible letter in the mail from the Governor of Virginia. This letter states how sorry he is to hear of the loss of our son and what a great fighter he was for such a difficult disease he had. For the first time Virginia is participating in Congenital Heart Awareness week in Memory of CORBIN!!!! Yes, Governor Kaine signed a proclamation stating that February 7Th through February 14Th is Congenital Heart Awareness Week!!!! How awesome is that!!!!

HELP SPREAD THE NEWS FEBRUARY 7TH - 14TH IS CONGENITAL HEART AWARENESS WEEK!

WE ASK THAT YOU WEAR A RED AND BLUE RIBBON ALL WEEK TO SUPPORT OUT KIDS THAT ARE IN THE ARMS OF JESUS AND THOSE THAT ARE STILL FIGHTING!!!

Thanks for your love and support!

Planning Fun

2007-01-18T08:35:00.000-05:00

We had our first Disney world planning event. We planned some fun things we are going to be doing while there. We are having an international dinner and dessert with VIP seating for the Illumination fireworks and laser show at Epcot. A character dinner event at Magic Kingdom. Lots of great things. The boys are really getting excited.

They were also very excited to spend some time with Mr. Army Pat yesterday too. He had sent some small BDU's for them and they were all dressed up and ready to play. Even Savannah wasn't going to miss out on all the fun!

We are also starting a new project of re modeling our basement! So life stays busy and we love it!

God Bless,

The Grabb's

Looking forward to our fun adventure in Disney!!!

Change

2007-01-10T13:29:00.000-05:00

Well we have made the changes to Corbin's room. We cleaned it out. Gave away all his toys, bed and such. This is how it looked when he was alive! HOW I MISS THIS LOOK!!!!

This is how it looked after he passed away. Many of his toys just sitting out of site so they would be out of mind! This is the look that drove me absolutely crazy and kept the door shut to his room so whenever we walked by you just wouldn't be reminded of the sadness of it all.

So this is the current look. Our new classroom and office. One that we can remember Corbin in and yet not have the sadness of boxed up toys and his clothes packed away constantly reminding us of what we don't have here on this earth.

How do I feel about it???

Good, I feel that it was time and the sadness of the closed room needed to leave our home so we could move forward and heal more. Pray that we will find joy in the new room and make new memories while remembering the old.

Terri and crew

Yucky Flu!!!! And the New Year!

2007-01-04T16:49:00.000-05:00

We are finally over the flu. It took us all a week to recover from the yucky violent flu virus. It was really nasty stuff. All five of us caught it. It doesn't help having the crazy emotions hit in the midst of being so sick. We made it through the new year. It is amazing how you can feel so bad about something as simple as a change in a calander year. Yet, it took us two days to recover from that date change.

Well, we are back to school and working on all our new projects again. The boys are doing great. Getting school done by 1pm every day so they can plenty of time to get out in the fresh air. It has been great weather here lately.

We are also working on a new project. We are finally clearing out Corbin's room. Yes, we are going through all his things and giving away his bed, toys, books, clothes and medical supplies. It hasn't been easy but we know that they will be going to great new homes. Some will be going to families within our church others will be donated to the Cheseapeke Center where Corbin had his speech and physical thereapy. His room will be transformed into our new classroom for the boys. We have also cleaned out the boys room and given them more space and an organized closet.

We will have to give you a pre and post view of the room. Corbin's room became a room that contained all of his things and was hard to walk through. It will be nice to have it become the classroom and spend time everyday in his room, in some ways it makes me feel better that we will be using it again and not just leaving it closed up.

Ending with a picture of Savannah opening her ornament from Christmas eve!

God Bless

Terri

Mixed Feeling and The New Year

2006-12-31T10:29:00.000-05:00

As the year 2006 passes on and 2007 enters in I feel mixed emotions, I hate the thought of changing that Calendar over to a new year with the knowledge of knowing that Corbin will never be here this new year, I will never hold him, kiss him, smell that sweet smell of his, feel his arms around my neck in the year of 2007. So as this time approaches it comes with mixed feelings. As it also means one year closer to our Savior coming down from heaven and bringing the new earth and new heaven! One when I will be free from sin and free from these crazy mixed emotions that draw me away from God instead of closer to him.

The year 2006 began with wonder and joy as we watched Corbin grow and gain such amazing strength. He went from not eating and being told that he would take years to gain all that he lost in the hospital to gaining it all back in months. He was eating mostly on his own, walking and climbing as any other 18 month old would do. Just beginning to communicate with us in sign and in some words. As the year went on it became the most difficult year we have ever lived through.

Corbin entered into Jesus arms, not long after my Dad followed Corbin into Heaven’s gates. We have had months of illness here at our home. The three boys have showed the stress of losing their brother and grandfather by becoming ill. We have had all three boys have strep over five times, a tick bite, two boys with stitches, sprained wrist, a closed head injury that landed us in the ER for 12 hours, all three boys once again diagnosed with strep and mononucleosis, and then to end the year all of them contracted the flu virus. Yes, we have made so many Dr visits that it seams very cruel considering we spent the past two years surrounded by Doctors and doing all we could to keep the boys healthy for Corbin’s sake. Now we are surrounded by illness and Doctors once again.

Then to top it off, we get a new puppy. One we have been looking into getting for over a year. The boys were eagerly awaiting the return of Corbin from his final surgery so we could bring a new puppy into our home. So as we recovered we did finally bring the new puppy into our home. Yet, as it would go we would get the puppy that was very sick. She was in our home for only five days before ending up in a puppy hospital with a central line receiving medications for not only severe dehydration and a blood infection but also insulin for diabetes. Yes, our new puppy is diabetic! So after a very scary time and thoughts that the puppy was not going to make it, the puppy spent over a week and a half in the hospital we finally brought her home again. She too has many doctor vet visits and is on special food and medication to maintain her blood sugar! Yes, the year 2006 was not one that brought the easiest of times for our family!

We would not change God’s plan for our family. Even though we miss our sweet Corbin greatly and celebrating Christmas without him was very hard. I was a little sad that no one mentioned sweet Corbin Christmas day, yet he was greatly missed. Yet, we must continue to go forward and trust God’s love for us. This New Year, Corbin and Dad leave us with a gift of new memories. We are taking our family and the Lamons to Disney World. We are using the life insurance money from Corbin and the money from Dad’s estate to give the family time together to heal.

With all our love,
Prayers that the New Year is Gentler to our Family and yours,
The Grabb Family

Family Newletter

2006-12-21T08:56:00.000-05:00

Here is a link to our family newsletter!!!! Thanks for checking in on us.

Give you an update on the puppy soon!

http://www.grabbfamily.com/2006_Christmas_Letter.pdf

Merry Christmas
Love
The Grabb Family

Our new addition

2006-12-05T09:18:00.000-05:00

We made it through Thanksgiving. We left just the five of us and went to Williamsburg, VA.

We toured the historic areas and had a good time. The boys loved playing solder and fighting with their muskets.

We are doing a fund raiser for Save A Heart this Saturday at Travis' Car groups Christmas party. Mary Catherine came this past weekend and helped pull me off the couch and dig me out of my funk.

We are awaiting the arrival of our little girl! Yep, we are getting a new puppy! She should arrive Friday. We can't wait to bring her home. She is a havanese.

My wonderful sister is coming to help us get through Christmas. Just knowing she is going to be here is a relief.

Thanks for checking on us.

Love,

Terri

This Week

2006-11-21T09:12:00.000-05:00

This week has been a hard one for us. It seems just when you feel things can't feel any worse it does. The tears come easily for Travis and I. We miss Corbin greatly as the holidays approach. We feel the knot in our stomach and the ache in our hearts.

How is it that a person can hurt so much and still be alive?

Terri and Family

Tick Bites and Head Injuries

2006-11-17T17:09:00.000-05:00

Having recovered from our camping adventure and strep throat virus. We found other ways to entertain ourselves.

Travis went to Conneticut for a few days and returned Tuesday night. Wednesday we found a tick that had a rash around it on Brodie. So we had to go to the Doctor again and have it removed. He is being covered by antiobiotics due to the rash being a first symptom of Lymes.

Later that same day, Aiden built a ramp for his bike and had an accident. He was out for a few and very disoriented and confused. He could not walk or even see. So as the symptoms became worse it required a trip to the ER! So off we went to have a CAT scan. We had to stay for several hours as he was observed. Thankfully, nothing broken or bleeding in his noggin and just had swelling so only a concussion. We are now trying to keep him quiet and stop the others from wrestling around or hurting his head.

Yes, I do feel the need for a quiet hotel room with bubbles and a nice book all alone after a week like this!

Terri

What do you do????

2006-11-12T08:58:00.000-05:00

When all three of your children have strep throat??? Of course you set up a tent in the back yard and go camping!

To keep our sanity and find a way to break the boredom in the house as we are not allowed around others we set up a tent and went camping in our back yard. As the day was nice and hot, the night turned into a wind storm with heavy downpours. Yes, we did not plan that well. We did enjoy a campfire with marshmallows, roasted hot dogs on the fire and songs. As we sat around and told our favorite memories of Corbin.

Travis, I am sure will never want to sleep in his own bed again after such a wonderful night of sleeping out doors in the rain and damp cold. It was glorious! The boys were snuggled down in their sleeping bags noticing nothing of the cold. That is except Brodie who could not sleep in his as he kept falling out of it! :) And everyone managed to stay dry except for Travis' shoes. Somehow his shoes were under the only leak in the tent and all the water poured into his shoes! Yes, it was slightly humorous to all of us. It actually saved the boys from being wet!

Hopefully soon we can again get out and about as this virus completes its course.

Take Care,
Happy Camping!!!
Terri and Family

Heart Walk Update

2006-11-06T20:57:00.000-05:00

I wanted to give a re-cap of the Heart Walk that TenderHearts did in Memory of Corbin. They did an awesome job. We put together a short video of the day and events. It started out at 8am for Beckie. She worked so hard to put together this day for all of us. Her efforts were amazing. We arrived to find a huge banner that had the boys walking through our yard and Corbin and I’s picture on it. It was incredible. I don’t think I will ever be able to describe how loved our family felt that day. Thank you to all who came out, to the many who donated and the many who supported us.

We made shirts for the children and handed out buttons that said Fight CHD with Corbin’s picture. The weather was great, yes a little on the chilly side but wonderfully sunny. We ended the day with lunch at Brione’s Grille, with many laughs as sweet Kate Yawney named her veggies and Zachary Steele showed his amazing spunk. Then, as we felt the day couldn’t have been any better Tender Hearts presented us with a Tree of Hope. This tree had special ornaments made in memory of Corbin from the families that walked. It was the most beautiful gift we have ever received. We have it up in our dining room and may never take it down. Each ornament was selected and given with such love. Thank you so much. We love each ornament and find joy in each one that you have given us.

On one ornament had a story written on it by our good friend Diane James. She wrote exactly how we see our son’s life. No other words could say it better than hers so we wanted to share those words she wrote with you. Thank you again Diane.

“Before God formed Corbin in his mother’s womb,
He determined a specific plan and purpose for Corbin’s life.
God didn’t plan a long life for Corbin on earth,
But He gave Corbin a very big job, one only Corbin could do.
In less than two years, this little boy taught people some very big lessons.
He taught people how to care deeply for one another.
He taught people how to sacrifice for loved ones.
He taught people how to persevere.
He taught people how to find joy in pain and suffering.
He taught people where to find God and how to pray fervently to him.
He taught people around the globe how to unite in prayer.
He taught people that a man’s days are like grass
And that our only real hope is in heaven.
Corbin went to heaven before us, but those who hope in Him
Will spend eternity with Corbin when God calls us home.
And in the meantime, Corbin is basking
In the sweet presence of our Savior.
Praise be to God.”
With much love, hope and prayers,
The Grabb Family

This week

2006-11-02T09:02:00.000-05:00

We have had an amazingly busy week!

I took the boys to Cox farm with Hope and Diane. All 10 of the kids (yes we really took 10) had a great time. Travis took the boys to the harvest carnival at chruch Tuesday. Wednesday they had their soccer tournament. They did awesome. Gunnar and Aiden's team won 2 and tied one. Brodie's team won one and tied two. Today they have co op and scare crow making for our new garden thanks to Gary (Travis Dad). Then Friday we prepare the house for company. Saturday the Heart walk, and Sunday Travis and I have box seats for the Redskins and Cowboys game. Nothing much is really going on here! :)

I have posted photos of Corbin's Monument. It was placed yesterday. It turned out well.

As I said we have the heart walk that Tender Hearts is doing in memory of Corbin this Saturday. They have done an awesome job. So far they have raised over 14,000 and have over 80 people walking.

Thanks for checking in
Terri and Crew

2006-11-02T08:59:00.000-05:00

Corbin's favorite bear and blanket etched on the monument.

2006-11-02T08:58:00.000-05:00

Corbin's Monument Placed Nov 1st 2006

My Dad

2006-10-14T10:04:00.000-04:00

I am very sad to report that Dad passed away Sunday, October 8th at around noon. We had his funeral on Wednesday. He will be cremated and buried at the foot of Mom sometime this next week.

Needless to say we are all exhausted. I am back home now with Travis and the boys. The boys were very glad to have Mommy home.

Thank you for the prayers and support.

Terri

Update on Dad

2006-10-01T07:17:00.000-04:00

I am in Michigan. It has been difficult at best. Dad is in critical condition. They found that Dad had a heart attack and it hit the main artery running through the heart. It was stented back open. He is on an ECMO device to maintain his heart to pump correctly. Yesterday the Doctor told us he had lost all of his left ventricle. It is no longer pumping at all and there was nothing more they can do for him. So we wait, pray and wait. Dad is aleart and awaire of his surroundings. He communicates through hand squeezes and gestures. He is being very cooperative with the nurses and so he is not completely sedated so we are able to see him awake and he is aware we are all here with him. One of the many blessings we have seen in this. Please pray that today, the Doctors will find that his left ventricle is working and that we will not have to make any difficult decisions.

All our Love,
Terri

Pray Please

2006-09-29T11:22:00.000-04:00

Please pray for my Dad and family. My Dad is being flighted to a hospital in heart failure. He is currently intubated and still not getting enough oxygen.

Not sure when I will update again,
Leaving now for Michigan.
Terri

September 24, 2006

2006-09-24T20:58:00.000-04:00

It has been awhile since I have updated. The boys are doing well. We have began our crazy schedule. The boys all have loved soccer. Brodie played in his first soccer game this past week. We are still working on kicking toward the correct goal. He loved making a goal unfortunately it was in the wrong net and counted against his team instead of for it. Not to worry three other boys did the same thing. Yes, this does make me question my coaching abilities. But I keep telling myself that I can not do any serious harm to 4 year olds.

Gunnar and Aiden are on the same team and are doing very well. They both scored several goals.

School is going well. Gunnar and Aiden are loving Co-op this year. They love their classes and are learning a lot. Aiden loves sign language. Gunnar's favorite class is history.

We went away for the first time this weekend as a family. It was hard but good. The boys had a great time at their GrandPap Grabb's house. The boys rode their motorcycles, went for a canoe ride, swam and rode in the mule! Yep a busy three days but a nice mini holiday for us all. Unfortunately both Gunnar and Brodie are a little under the weather, having trouble with their breathing and needing asthma treatments. Doing well despite needing the treatments.

Hope all is going well with each of you. As always we are missing Corbin but overall doing well. We are keeping our eyes on God and telling us His truths to get us through.
All our Love,
The Grabbs

This week

2006-09-09T09:27:00.000-04:00

We are excited to say we have sold over $150.00 in bracelets and necklaces for CHD research and families. The boys love sealing each package. Sometimes so fast the notes can't even make it in. They have also been mailing off their Lovies as well.

All three started Soccer and Awana's this past wednesday. They were a little unsure of awana's but took right to soccer. Aiden is doing much better than Gunnar dealing with Corbin's loss. I think that is because he will talk about it to ANYONE! In the checkout line he will tell the clerk or bagger, his teachers in Awana, strangers standing in line next to him. He loves to talk about his brother and tell people that Corbin is in Heaven. We are not going to stop him from this or tell him that it makes people VERY uncomfortable because I would rather let him heal and that he is. Gunnar will not discuss it. He gets upset when you mention Corbin in anyway. So I am looking at ways to help him heal. Gunnar is also sick. He is running a fever and has flu symptoms this past few days.

We are working on the American Heart Walk in the DC area. We are overwhelmed by the responses we are getting. We have families traveling from all over coming to join us. Still amazed at the love we are shown by God.

Well thats all for now we will update again another time,
Terri and Crew

Two Months

2006-08-29T14:25:00.000-04:00

Yes, it really has been two whole months since Corbin joined Jesus in heaven. Its hard to believe we have made it through two months without him with us here.

We are getting by. Travis has been staying busy with his Auto Cross Racing. He actually won a trophy! Gunnar and Aiden have begun home school. They start a weekly co op class here soon, that I am volunteering to serve at. All three boys will begin soccer on Wednesdays. I am coaching Brodie's team. They also begin Awana's next week. So we will be busy with their school activities. I am staying busy by painting our home and yard work. Something that really needed to be done but never was able to get to.

We are doing a few things to honor Corbin's strength and courage during his fight against CHD. We are making bracelets and necklaces that the boys refer to Corbin's Heart. They are simple with just a leather band and a heart pendant. We will be selling them on our family website to raise money for CHD and families. We are also walking in the American Heart Walk this November 4th in Washington DC. The local heart group here in our area who has supported and cared for our family is honoring Corbin by walking in his memory this year.

The boys are still making Corbin's Lovies that they are dropping off at the hospitals for the babies. Something they enjoy making and doing to bring other babies comfort too.

So we are staying busy and fully relying on God to bring us through the hardest time we have ever faced.

Love,
Terri and Family

Sorry this would help:

www.grabbfamily.com
The information is under Fundraising

2006-08-23T07:33:00.000-04:00

Cobra Club Teammates Shine At Summer Sizzler Autocross

WILEY FORD, WV � Virginian Travis Grabb drove his way into the spotlight at the National Road Autosport Summer Sizzler Autocross, fourth leg the 2006 Miller Lite Cumberland Airport Autocross Series.

The sports car weekend began with a special Friday night Devil's Duel Shoot Out between Steel Town Corvette and Capital Area Cobra Club. Led by Pittsburgher Rob Harris, the bow-tie brigade captured the evening's club contest, but Grabb got hot in his Factory Five Cobra during the Eliminator Bracket and won a coveted National Road "Iceburg Trophy" as the King of The Hill eliminator.

Saturday's sold-out autocross featured a tight battle for Fast Time of the Day (FTD) with the Top Five separated by less than nine-tenths of a second. The Cumberland-based Reynards of John Felten and Greg Honeycutt claimed first and second. Third place went to the Porsche RSR of Bob Williams, Clinton, VA. Grabb showed that his Friday results were not a fluke, flying into fourth, .151 seconds ahead of crowd favorite Dennis Howard (Eldersburg, MD) and his yellow Porsche 996 TT.

As Sunday dawned, Wade Chamberlain had little to show for a weekend in which he was consistently knocking on the door - having the fastest car all night at the Devil's Duel only to spin in the finals of the Eliminator Bracket, and setting the fastest time on two different runs on Saturday, only to clip cones on both. He finally broke through to win FTD on Sunday, holding off the flying Feltens in second and third. DC area SCCA standout Brian Hair was fourth in his ASP BMW M-Coupe. Bob Williams made it a Top Five double for the weekend, edging out Howard.

Double winners in contested classes on Saturday and Sunday included Howard (SS Porsche), Alan Pozner (DS Acura), Andy Lindner (GS Dodge), Rob Robeson (HS Dodge), Wood Hair (CSP BMW), Tim Eisel (EM Porsche), Karl Loper (SM Camaro) and Bob Williams (SM2 Porsche).

Local contested class winners included Steve Hotchkiss (Saturday AS Corvette), Pete Harrison (Sunday AS Honda), Bill Gearghty (Saturday BS Porsche), Meg Ellis (Sunday ES Mazda), Bill Nyga (Saturday BSP Corvette), Kenn Nyga (Sunday ESP Pontiac), Fred Pfeiffer (Saturday DM Porsche), Sean Pfeiffer (Sunday DM Porsche) and Jim Shultz (STT BMW),

Other local drivers in the Saturday Top 25 included Tink Phillips (BP Daytona) 8th, Loper 11th, Steve Wilson (ASP Porsche) 15th, Hotchkiss 17th, Ken Bane (SM Ford) 23rd and Harrison 25th. Sunday local Top 25 drivers included Loper 11th, Phillips 16th, Bane 21st, Bill Nyga 22nd, Harrison 24th and Mark Boggs (ASP Porsche) 25th.

Complete results can be found on-line at www.nationalroadrally.com .

PHOTO CAPTION

GRABB GRABS SHOOT OUT TITLE � Travis Grabb got hot at the end of the first annual Devil's Duel Shootout between his Capital Area Cobra Club and the Steel Town Corvette Club. The Pittsburgh area Corvette team took the club title, but Grabb, shown celebrating his win with team mates, took the King Of The Hill title home to Clinton, VA.

Family update

2006-08-20T08:01:00.000-04:00

Well here is what is going on in the Grabb Asylum er I mean household!

Aiden's finger - He ripped the nail off along with the roots of the nail under the skin. He also broke off a piece of the bone. So it was considered an open fracture. Well, they took cultures. Would you believe it grew fungus! So now he has an infected open fracture and has to see an orthopedic for it!

Gunnar, Aiden and Brodie are enrolled in home school soccer through a local program. I will be coaching (yes you are reading that correctly) Brodie's age level. I know many of you are finding this mighty humorous since that I have never shown any interest in any sport let alone learned how to play anything. But, I have begun reading Soccer for Dummies, and All a kid should now about Soccer.

Gunnar and Aiden are enrolled in home school co op classes through our church. They are taking history, sign language and art. I will be helping out in that program as well.

Travis did very well with the race!!! He took 1st place the first day, then the second day held fastest time for a long time. Looking forward to seeing how today goes. If he had the video camera up and running I will try to post a short clip on our homepage. Let you know when and if I can get that up.

Me just staying busy. Cleaning, cooking, feeding, and teaching! That is about it.

The Crazy Grabbs

Sadness

2006-08-18T14:23:00.000-04:00

Today I received a phone call from a heart Mom I met while in Michigan. You could hear the tears in her voice. Well, Yesterday morning her son went to be with the Lord. He too was a fighter. He fought back with not only HLHS, severe bladder infections that led to spinal menigitis that kept him in the hospital most of his short life. He made it home only to pass away in his mothers arms. I am only certain of one thing. God's Love. Even in the midst of our darkest hours God is still wispering his love for us. His willingness to give us strength, all we have to do is turn to him.

Will do another update on the boys and stuff another time. Just doesn't seem right after learning of another little boy in Jesus' arms.

Terri

Home Again

2006-08-13T20:12:00.000-04:00

We are home now. We arrived back home Friday night. It was a nice vacation but the boys really needed to return to get into a form of structure. They showed me in many ways we can't keep running from the memories of our home. They need to have the structure and routine so they can also begin to heal as well.

Did I make it to the hospital. Yes, I did go. No I did not go to Pod A, nor did I go to Cardiology Clinic and see any of the Doctors. I went in the middle of the night and saw only the floor nurses at night. I was going to go back the next day and see everyone during the day the Pod A, and Doctors but just couldn't go back. It was way to hard.

My sister still has many more tests to go through before they can find any answers please pray that she will have peace until all the information gets in and she can return to the doctor in September. Pray that all the tests and procedures go smoothly with no complications.

Aiden has been our little accident boy lately. He feel swinging from vines in the trees and punctured a hole in his head requiring stitches. Today he ripped the root of his fingernail and nail bed out of his finger. Yes it is painful!
Gunnar and Brodie are both doing well.

I am not going to discuss how we are grieving or healing on this site. That is something we would like to do privately.

Travis is going with his Dad soon on another race with his Cobra. He does auto cross and really enjoys it.

As for Me, I am going to take up a new hobby. I think it is going to be running! I will let you know.

Terri and family

The Drive Back

2006-07-30T08:29:00.000-04:00

Yesterday we drove back and it was an emotional drive for me. Remembering and bitter sweet to return without our son in the car that we truly believed would be a survivor of HLHS and not a statistic. Yet, onward we drove. The boys did great. Aiden was not to sure about getting back into the car for another 6 hour drive today to get to the campsite. Gunnar and Brodie are very excited and ready to go. So onward we go to the great beyond. Blessings to all.

Terri

Yesterday

2006-07-27T17:02:00.000-04:00

Was probably one of my harder days yet. I received Corbin's medical records from his last two days. Yes, I did read them even though I probably should not have. It did not say anything I did not already know just that It crushed me to read such medical facts about my son who was dying at the time. It brought a lot of doubts that I had to the surface. Thankfully God sent a friend to call at just the right time.

Today I am better. I have a terrible migraine from crying so much yesterday. But realize that the truth is the truth. Nothing will change Corbin's death and nothing was done wrong. Just one of those things that you pray will never happen during surgery.

Tomorrow we have to pack! I need to pack for all four of us and the car so we can leave bright and early to go camping!! I love camping. When I say that I mean camping with electricity and running water! I am not a survivalist camper, nope I am a wimpy need the comforts of home camper. Some may say that is not true camping but I say it is. Any time you don't get to sleep in your own bed and have to use a shower house to bath it is camping!

Missing Corbin ever so much but knowing I will see him again.
Later,
Terri

July 26, 2006

2006-07-26T07:45:00.000-04:00

I have come to this page several times to write but have just logged out. Its hard to write your feelings or even to acknowledge them. Some moments are harder than others as are just some days. I never thought that we would come home without Corbin. Its really hard being in this house and not having him here with us.

Lately I have just been feeling numb and empty. Like I have nothing left to feel or even give. Sometimes, the boys even make me upset or sad because I would still be in the hospital not watching them play and laugh. Everything is a constant reminder that Corbin is gone. I anxiously await to see him again. I was told that this life is just a breath in comparison to eternity. It sure seems that someone is holding their breath on me.

That being said we are returning to Michigan exactly one month from the day Corbin died. We are renting a cabin for two weeks with my sister and then returning to Ann Arbor for the last week. During that last week my sister Sherri will be seeing a doctor and we will be delivering Corbin's 2nd birthday gifts to the hospital. We may stay and be with the Vercammen and Husted family as they have their Fontan surgery on July 16th. I am not real sure if I can go back yet but am considering it for them.

Please think of Travis as we are going to be in Michigan and him home here. He has not a single day of vacation and realizes that I need to get away.

Love,
The Grabbs

In Memory of our son Corbin Marc Grabb

2006-07-19T20:26:00.000-04:00

This video is in memory of our son for his 2nd birthday.
July 20, 2004 - June 29, 2006

Tomorrow

2006-07-15T11:02:00.000-04:00

As I was doing my devotional time this morning this is what I read by Spurgeon.

Tomorrow

A Christian can look forward to tomorrow with joy. Tomorrow is a happy thing. It is one stage nearer glory, one step nearer heaven, one more mile sailed across life's dangerous sea, one mile closer to home.

Tomorrow is a fresh lamp of the fulfilled promise that God has placed in His firmament. Use it as a guiding star or as a light to cheer your path. Tomorrow the Christian may rejoice. You may say that today is black, but I say that tomorrow is coming. You will mount on its wings and flee. You will leave sorrow behind.

Tomorrow, or perhaps before then, this head will wear the crown (James 1:12). This arm will wave the palm (Rev. 7:9). This lip will sing the song (Rev. 5:13). Tomorrow, this heart will be full of immortal, everlasting, eternal bliss (Rev. 21:4). Be of good cheer, fellow Christian, tomorrow can have nothing negative for you.

Surgeon pg 120 Beside Still Waters

This really spoke to me. Yes, today I am sad. I miss Corbin's very much. But what a beautiful thing God gives us Tomorrow!

Terri

How are we doing?

2006-07-06T08:06:00.000-04:00

We miss Corbin very much. Yet we are also aware that we will see Corbin and his two sisters again. That is God's promise and gift to us through his Son's death and resurection.

That doesn't mean we aren't sad. Yet we grieve with hope. My arms ache to hold him one more time. My heart breaks at the silence that comes from his room. The tears flow as I look around at all the medical equipment that Corbin is now free from. Yes, we are sad but we also rejoice. Our son is healed. This is not how I wanted my prayers answered but I know that God knows best for us all. He uses ALL things for good!

We would like to ask for your help. We are going to be celebrating Corbin's 2nd birthday on July 20th. We are getting a large world map and would like to ask all to let us know where you live so we can mark how large of an area Corbin has touched. We thought this would be a great visual to our other son's of God's love for our family.

So please--Post a message with your state,city, or country

Thank you again for always loving our family, for always reaching out to us and your many prayers.

Please join me in praying for Jacob. His mom and I are very close and he faces the Fontan this July 13th. Care page is "jacobsheart"

Terri

Corbin Marc Grabb

2006-07-06T08:02:00.000-04:00

On June 29th at 12:30am we said Goodbye for now to our sweet loving little boy. He was taken to heaven this morning after not recovering from his two open heart surgeries Monday and Tuesday. He suffered a massive stroke. He passed away in my arms with Dad by his side as we told him how much we loved him.

The memorial service was Monday July 3, 2006

Our church has made it available online for all that would wish to listen.

(cut and paste the following link into your browser)

http://www.sovgracefairfax.org/home/audio/2006/07/03/corbingrabb

The pastor mentions an article about infants going to heaven. You can read that article at:
http://www.sbts.edu/mohler/FidelitasRead.php?article=fidel036

Thank you for your prayers and support.

Surgical updates

2006-07-06T07:53:00.000-04:00

Corbin made it out to Moderate care for a half hour where he aspirated and then coded. He was rushed into Pod A. They were able to get his heart beating again but were having a lot of difficulty in ventilating him. Then his heart stopped again. He was quickly placed on ECMO on April 21st. For four days Corbin bleed loosing over 400 units of blood in those four days. They were able to stop the bleeding. He had to go onto dialysis and remove a lot of access fluid. They worked hard and he was able to get off ECMO on April 30th. He was still very sick and was placed on Nitric oxyide and a lot of other blood pressure support to keep him alive. We then worked our way at getting better. On May 19th Corbin was taken off the vent. He then had surgery on May 25th to have a G/J tube placed. He ended up needing four tubes due to problems with them.

Then on June 22nd Corbin went into heart failure. He was having a lot of trouble loosing his fluid. They found that his right lung was not getting any blood flow to it and the pulminary artery needed opening again. So on Monday June 26th Corbin had a heart catherization to place a stent. Unfortunately the stent placement went wrong and he had to have open heart surgery to remove two stents lost and fix the PA.

This is the abbreviated version and more can be read on www.carepages.com under his carepage name corbingrabb.

Terri

Surgery and Post op Updates

2006-04-21T13:59:00.000-04:00

April 21, 2006 at 08:08 AM EDT
We are commanded to "pray without ceasing" and that's just what so many of you have done for Corbin. We stand in awe of God's goodness and mercy. Even as there are complications and setbacks we marvel at the grace God pours out.

Sorry I didn't update yesterday, but Thursdays are a "rat race" here and I was waiting for the next update from Terri. Since yesterday Corbin is breathing better, his lungs are a little better and he still needs to cough to clear the right lung which is congested. He is still on high oxygen support by nasal canula. They are weaning the milrinone (cardiac output med) very slowly as his blood pressure drops (to a mean 55). His diuretcs have been changed from pump to IV and they are weaning the sedation. He's awake more, but still lethargic. Yesterday he watched some video and kept his eyes open more, and did smile when Terri signed "I love you". She still calls him "pathetic" but there are many positive signs.

They resumed feeding rice dream during the day (he only took 4 ounces) and tube feeding formula at night, but he is not tolerating food. He's on prevacid and zantac for digestion. Corbin's digestion has always been sensitive so this is not unusual and should improve as his meds are weaned and his system returns to balance. He is off TPN but still receiving lipids.

This morning they have removed his catheter, the arterial line, and the most uncomfortable chest tube! (It will be easier to hold him.) Output from the other chest tubes is very low and clear but will remain until he becomes mobile, as that is when the clearing of chest fluids will be more dramatic. They continue to wean him off the morphine and atavan sedation but he has started some tremors which may indicate withdrawal signs. He's still on sodium bicarbonate for the acidic state of his blood as well as enalapril for his heart. His core temperature is stable as his body fights hard.

Corbin is sleeping most of the time and they would like him to awaken and become more active. That would help clear his lungs and GI tract and help him regain muscle tone. Since he's now lay in bed for 9 days, it will take a while to regain strength. There is talk of moving him out of the ICU, but they are not certain whether he must go to moderate care (the step-down unit) or can go to the floor. In moderate care the parents can stay 24 hours but they may not sleep at bedside (now they leave the unit for shift change, rounds and any complications with any patient). On the floor a parent can stay in the room and sleep in the lovely recliner.

My personal prayer is that once Corbin will tolerate being held he will improve more rapidly and regain strength and digestion. Oh the power of human touch! Dr. Ohye (surgeon) is pleased with the results and my personal daily question appears to be answered -- Corbin appears able to adjust to the fontan circulation and is not expected to need a "takedown" (undoing of the surgery). Nothing is certain until he leaves the hospital. The significant concern at present seems to be that Corbin's cardiac output needs to improve.

So today we ask that you join us in continuing to "pray without ceasing" that Corbin:
continue to wean from the narcotics and regain activity and interaction;
have improved cardiac output from the right side of the heart as it works to perform "double duty";
blood pressure improve as the milrinone is weaned;
body chemistry stabilizes at acceptable levels;
be protected from infection and human error;
be able to tolerate food necessary to restore strength;
has a bed in the appropriate unit as soon as he is ready to be moved out of ICU;
and, that Terri and Travis receive the rest necessary to take over 24 hour care as soon as Corbin leaves ICU;
that they are content and at peace with Corbin's care and progress.

Each of you is a treasure of support and caring, and we thank God for your faithfulness. May God be glorified THIS day.
GrandPenny

April 19, 2006 at 10:29 PM EDT
Blessed be His Name, when I'm found in the desert place, though I walk through the wilderness, Blessed Be His Name

Corbin seems to just be worn out. This evening Terri says he looks "pathetic". They want him to awaken more, especially to be upright, move around and loosen chest congestion. He's not comfortable being held, so they have a therapy chair for him, but he just wants to sleep. What a change from the wild man in the crib yesterday! His temperature is under control and his breathing is less labored than it was this morning, but still on 3 liters Oxygen. His saturations hover around 80% and they want it up to 85%. They have started his regular pre-surgery meds, enalapril and aspirin.

Last night when he was still agitated and acting wild, he was signing "please, more, milk, mama" and every time they'd mess with him he'd say "no, 'op". (Praise God, he's "neurologically intact" even after all the trauma post-surgery!) Finally they fed him to help him calm down and he ate very well, but he's not digesting well and the dietician left without writing orders for food, so he can't be fed again until tomorrow, although the TPN and lipids have been removed. He's off the insulin and losing fluid weight. Since he's more calm (worn out) the narcotics dosages are reduced and he was only getting chloral hydrate most of the day. He's wearing a shirt now which makes him look more like himself, and his heart rate remains good both at rest and when awakening.

That's all I can remember, so it sounds like a day of rest for him.
Please pray specifically for:
T&T to be content and at peace with Corbin's care, effectively expressing their concerns and advocating for Corbin, and being heard;
Corbin to breathe deeper and stronger to reduce oxygen support and help clear congestion;
Corbin to awaken more;
Corbin to be comfortable and content;
oxygenation and blood gases to improve;
blood pressure to remain stable;
Corbin to receive the best nutrition and be able to digest well;
Corbin to be protected against infection and human error.

Thank you for all your prayers and care. T&T are so grateful for the visitors, messages, food and calls. We are grateful for the same, as well as planned and surprise meals provided, and invitations for the boys to visit friends. I don't know if Travis' shoulder is any better, but he's not complaining. My foot/ankle is no worse and the doctor provided some strategies for improvement today. I have to be able to chase these 3 little guys!

May God richly bless you and may He be Glorified THIS day,
GrandPenny

April 19, 2006 at 12:52 PM EDT
Just a quick request for prayer -- will post more later.

Corbin is struggling to maintain oxygenation and is on as much oxygen support as possible without re-inserting the ventilator. Although they let him drink 15 ounces last night, not everyone feels that's a good idea. He is running a fever being treated for now with Tylenol, and is VERY tired.

My personal thoughts are that maybe he came too far off the vent and oxygen too soon and because he has been so agitated, also has stressed his body and worn himself out. Terri will call me later to let me know how things are going and what adjustments are being made, so I'll post details tonight.

Please pray that:
Corbin will rest comfortably, relax and breathe more deeply;
secretions will loosen and congestion will clear;
fever will go away;
Corbin will be protected from infection and human error;
Corbin will regain strength and stability.

Thank you and blessings to all, until tonight . . .
GrandPenny

April 18, 2006 at 06:05 PM EDT
Thanks to Rachel and Nikki for the wonderful pineapple and fruit basket! We'll do our best to put it to good use!!!

Travis

April 18, 2006 at 04:24 PM EDT
Ask and it will be given . . . pray without ceasing . . .

The power of prayer is awesome. Just this morning we asked:
"We thank you for your prayers that hold us up every day. Please join us today in praying specifically that:
Corbin's lungs will strengthen and remain clear, making progress toward getting off of the ventilator; HE'S OFF THE VENT !!
the sedation will keep him comfortable yet be monitored closely to maintain optimum recovery; HE DOESN'T APPEAR IN PAIN
his blood pressure will continue stable and allow weaning off other medications; BP GOOD, MEDS BEING WEANED perfusion throughout his body would improve and he would become pink all over; USING ALL 4 LIMBS AND SATS AT 93%
Corbin would awaken more peacefully, calm and strong; WELL, STRONG HE IS, PEACEFUL WHEN ASLEEP

We have witnessed another miracle. Terri called to say that Corbin was so active and fitful that he was endangering himself and had dislodged his ventilator. The staff decided they'd have to re-set it anyway, so pulled it the rest of the way and he's doing fine without it! They started with 3 liters oxygen by nasal cannula but stopped down at 1/4 L and his blood gases are fine. His esophogus was so swollen that they gave him epinephrin and the strider is quite loud, but he's much more comfortable without that ventilator down his throat and he's breathing on his own! The tape has torn up his face, but that will heal.

Corbin's blood pressure is good at a mean 68, heart rate is stable at a good 145, and they moved him IMMEDIATELY into a CRIB -- no longer on the surgical bed, because he's back to his wild man actions and they fear he'll climb out. He's maxed out on the narcotics so he is not very peaceful. Best of all, he was mouthing "MOM" over the ventilator, and even though he's not fully conscious he responds to her voice and tries to talk.

Here are the latest prayer needs -- and we know to pray specifically! Yeah God! Please join us in praying that:

Corbin will have bowel sounds so feeding can be initiated;
He will continue to lose fluid weight to return to "dry weight" and be able to come off the dopamine;
cardiac output will improve and the milrinone can be reduced;
Corbin will be calm and peaceful and awaken more, depending less upon the narcotics.

We ask these things in the name of Jesus who heals, surprises and delights His children. God be glorified!

GrandPenny

April 18, 2006 at 09:57 AM EDT
Morning by Morning new Mercies we see, God's always been faithful to me! God has provided constant care for Corbin and we rejoice in His great goodness and mercy!

We have a new condition category of "stable" -- no more "critical" although he is, of course, still in the ICU. That sure makes me feel better 1000 miles away! Corbin continues to adjust to weaning of his medical support. He is off the steroid and they are weaning the insulin as his sugars levels hold. His blood pressure is still low when the epinephrine is off and having to keep him sedated keeps his blood pressure down. This creates a viscious cycle with the sedatives. He is uncomfortable and the chest tube placements are quite inconvenient. Yesterday they replaced, unclogged or adjusted tubes 7 times, each time requiring additional sedation. Corbin does not appear in real pain, but as he awakens he is fighting to remove everything, sits up, pulls up, rolls over, scoots and even uses his feet to try and move the tubes. As miserable as that is, it's a great indicator of his strength and strong will, as well as one of the best indicators of neurological condition following such a serious surgery and threatening recovery! Unfortunately then they have to start back with the morphine, atavan, versad, and chloral hydrate until he calms, and that causes his blood pressure to drop again.

They have begun reducing his oxygen support on the vent. He went from 75 to 55 yesterday and then did several half-support "sprints" to exercise his lungs. His blood gases maintained satisfactory levels so he's on his way toward getting off the ventilator some day soon, which will be the biggest hurdle of all.

His body temperature is still too cool (partly because he's in the room with a baby requiring severe cooling treatments) so he's on a heated blanket. The heavy antibiotic has been stopped, no signs of infection, and, on a lighter note, his "heart bear" that he carried with him to surgery, had HIS chest closed yesterday. Those doctors need something to lighten their day and so the heart bear had come up from surgery with Corbin with a surgical opening of HIS chest. When Terri arrived this morning, there was the bear, with a note attached that said, "chest closed after 48 hours stable". Too funny! We are thankful for lighter moments.

We thank you for your prayers that hold us up every day. Please join us today in praying specifically that:
Corbin's lungs will strengthen and remain clear, making progress toward getting off of the ventilator;
the sedation will keep him comfortable yet be monitored closely to maintain optimum recovery;
his blood pressure will continue stable and allow weaning off other medications;
perfusion throughout his body would improve and he would become pink all over;
Corbin would awaken more peacefully, calm and strong;
Travis' shoulder (old injury) would heal and pain subside so he can rest well;
GrandPenny's foot/ankle (tendonitis?) pain would subside so she can chase 3 little boys and transport 3 busy teens.

You are so special to us and we so appreciate your prayers, your caring, and all the great messages of support and encouragement. May you draw near to our great God of mercy and comfort and glorify Him THIS day.

GrandPenny

April 17, 2006 at 05:12 PM EDT
Well, this afternoon I'm savoring the words of Dr. Ohye, the surgeon, who conveyed to Terri that he thinks Corbin has "turned the corner" and although there are never any guarantees, his opinion holds weight with me!

Corbin's "numbers" are really no better, but they have weaned down the epinephrine as far as they can go. However, Corbin's blood pressure drops when they try to turn it off, so now T&T are bribing him (Gunnar's new motorcycle was mentioned) and threatening him (no, GrandPenny does NOT spank)so they are telling him to "shape up" and kick some meds.

This is a slow wean day and it is just very hard to get his body to respond to reductions in meds when they have to keep him so heavily sedated to keep him calm and comfortable.

Please pray that Corbin's care team can find a better mix of sedation to allow his body to work and get off of some support and still not be agitated.

For those who are interested, there are some photos on the family website www.GrabbFamily.com. Corbin really looks very good for post-op, once you look past the machines, tubes and wires.

Thanks again for your continued prayers for Corbin. His brothers had a great day of play with generous church friends so that GrandPenny could hold a business meeting and the rest of my family could return to work and lessons. So very much for which to be thankful. We serve a Great God!

GrandPenny

April 17, 2006 at 07:52 AM EDT
I feel like we're dancing a "two step". Two steps forward, one step back, but Corbin is still going in the right direction, with small improvements along the way.

Terri is getting better rest and sounds good. She was so thankful for her visitors yesterday and Corbin made some improvements, but overnight needed some support returned. They've added TPN and lipids (nourishment) which required the addition of Zantac. His body cools too much then fever returns periodically as meds are given and wear off, but he made it off the nitric oxide and vasopressan (sp?) last night with no change on the ventilator. He's on insulin in response to the additional steroid to keep his blood pressure up. They removed the intercardiac line (one less internal line).

Now this morning Terri found that the nitric oxide pump has not been removed from Corbin's room, meaning there's a chance he'll have to go back on, as his blood gases are not where they need to be. They had to go back on the vasopressan and increase the ventilator oxygen support a bit. His chest x-ray shows a pocket of fluid on the right side, meaning a chest tube has clogged or a 4th drainage tube may be required. The CVP (measures the pulmonary arteries pressure) is higher than they'd like since coming off the nitric oxide.

Terri and Travis have had some concerns about pain management and are asking that sedation be monitored more closely, especially as they attempt to wean meds. Blood pressure AND heart rate have remained stable and good, so weaning of bp meds may continue today. Urine output has slowed a bit, but diuretics can be adjusted for that. He's on the ventilator, 12 med pumps, 2 pump lines and 5 additional intermittent meds. Still a long way to go.

Today we pray specifically that:
Corbin will be kept comfortable and not be in pain;
his body temperature will become stable;
his blood pressure and heart rate will remain stable in good range; his urine output will increase and excess fluids eliminate;
the pulmonary arteries pressures will reduce to normal range; additional seadation and other meds can be slowly weaned away;
there be no infections;
the chest tube be unclogged and he not need a 4th one inserted;
blood gases return to good range;
there be improved oxygen perfusion to the right side;
T&T are at peace and comfortable with Corbin's care.

We praise God for the gift of rest; for wise, skilled medical staff; for family and friends who visit, pray, serve and send messages of encouragement (WOW, you all are great!); for sustaining Corbin and providing glimpses of improvement. One of the best things is that Terri continues to say "Corbin looks like himself". You heart moms all know what that means . . .

Thank you so much for your faithfulness to pray for Corbin's healing. May God be glorified THIS day in all we think, do and say.

GrandPenny

April 16, 2006 at 05:31 PM EDT
Christ the Lord is Risen today -- hallelujia!

CJ Mahaney had a wonderful teaching for us today and provided some "gold nuggets" to help me stay focused on God's goodness and mercy in our situation.

Terri reports that Corbin continues stable today with some weaning in medical support. Although they had to add hydrocortisone, with a corresponding need for insulin, his blood pressure is stable at a mean 65, he's losing fluid weight, his heart rate is high at 175 so they are not weaning epinephrine today, they keep weaning the nitric oxide in little bits and hope to have it off by evening, they've added chest percussions to clear mucous, and there has been no growth on the cultures so there is the possibiity of stopping the heavy antibiotics. Corbin remains very sick, "critical but stable", but I see many praises in even these "baby steps" forward.

God has reminded me today how he loves to please his children and give us our heart's desire. Haven't I seen that so often! We have not, because we ask not. I've watched our Pastor, Lou, pray so specifically for Corbin and then shortly hear each prayer, even what we thought impossible, be answered. So although I am uncertain today of exactly WHAT Corbin needs, I purpose to pray specifically for each need, God knows every need, despite how unlikely it may appear to my brain. I pray in faith, that God may surprise and delight his children and His Name be glorified. For today, I know that Corbin's heart rate needs to come down, perfusion to the right side of his body needs to improve, his blood sugar needs to stabilize, he needs to be free of infection and working toward weaning off the ventilator (in general) along with less medication support. I ask you to continue your faithful prayers for Corbin and to join me in praying for these specific needs and those I hope to bring you tomorrow, sharing in the privilege of praying and the mercies of God's grace.

Blessed Easter -- the greatest miracle has already happened, yet God shows us mercies anew day by day.

GrandPenny

April 15, 2006 at 10:45 PM EDT
He is Risen, Indeed!

As we approach Easter and celebrate the Risen Christ, I realize that I will always remember this particular Easter miracle. How kind of God to give us such immediate, tangible answers to our prayers for Corbin. Tonight there is no real "new"s, but that is probably the best news of all. Stable, continuing to hold good numbers and very slowly adjusting to reductions in meds and other assistance. Tomorrow they will try to wean the nitric oxide some, and we pray for continued strength, and compensation for Corbin as he adjusts to the new circulation pathways. Remember, "Corbin" means "for whom God will provide". Praise Him!

Coach, Lattany and Logan returned from Mexico and were able to speak with Terri by phone -- what gladness. And three little boys here in Va are VERY happy, also, to have them home.

Happy Easter from our family to each and every one of you. As I promised, here are some Easter EGGs (EGGs = Evidence of God's Grace).

Travis is able to be with Terri and Corbin in Michigan without employment worries because of the "grace" poured out through his employer, United Rentals.

T&T have the comfort and security of lodging and familiar accomodations because of the diligence of U Mich staff and the generousity of the Ronald McDonald Foundation and all who contribute.

Nurses in Pod A were treated to homemade fudge today when Terri shared her special "comfort food" brought all the way from Virginia.

Skilled, caring surgeons apply their gifts to preserve the lives of babies like Corbin all over this country.

Caring friends call at just the right moment, stop by to offer assistance, encouraging words, or realize that a grandmother should not be alone on her grandson's surgery day.

People we have never met cry with us, rejoice with us, pray for us.

Pastors work tirelessly and respond to every immediate need.

Children come and climb into a lap, just to share a little love at the moment it is needed most.

Never ending love and the assurance of eternity in paradise, all because of the greatest sacrifice of all.

We see these EGGs because He came to earth, shared His love, was sacrificed for our sins, once and for ALL, rose again and Reigns Eternally. Corbin has breath tonight, only because of the grace of God. We thank God that we know where we will spend eternity, and pray that it will be with each of you, because it is the FREE gift of God's grace.

Hope you find MANY Easter EGGs around you. You are precious to us.

Praying for continued progress for Corbin's recovery, for rest and peace for T&T, and for peace and contentment for each of you.

GrandPenny

April 15, 2006 at 02:23 PM EDT
What a difference 24 hours can make! Praise God for wisdom, strength, perseverence and His infinite mercy.

It appears safe to say Corbin is "stable" and moving in the right direction. I was waiting to post until the surgeon had stopped by today, but having spoken with Terri this morning and just receiving an update from Travis, there are many good indicators this afternoon. I will post again this evening and plan to share some Easter EGGs with you.

Corbin is on many meds, but no new problem areas have developed and they are able to begin slowly weaning him from the vent, nitric oxide, epinephrine and to start the milrinone to improve cardiac output. His temp and blood pressure have both normalized (indicating improved cardiac output)and are holding while meds are adjusted. He is off the paralytics and being allowed to awaken somewhat, while still heavily sedated. His fluid output is no longer just when he receives the diuretics, but he is more steadily eliminating (great sign that kidneys are functioning).

The goal for today was to let Corbin "rest", but it appears that it has been much better than that and Terri calls it a "great, stable day". They will not start weaning the blood pressure meds until the milrinone is where they want it to be, but normal bp numbers are a real blessing even with medical support.

The best part is that Terri says his color is constantly improving even in his extremities, so with better oxygen perfusion, better eliminating, stable temperature and blood pressure, Corbin is heading in the right direction! He has a very long way to go to get off of all the med support and ventilator, but we'll patiently await God's perfect timing. Best of all, T&T are getting more time with their baby.

I'll send the latest news from today before bedtime, as well as some Easter EGGs for you!

GrandPenny

April 14, 2006 at 10:35 PM EDT
I feel that I needed to get on to tell you how much we love all of you, as I finally had a moment this evening to check email messages and received over 175 messages. We are truly amazed at God's goodness and love for us. Thank you so much for all you are doing and continue to do for our family with your prayers.

Corbin is as Grand Penny says hanging in there. As of 9pm his fever has returned but they are working hard at keeping it lower. We are just praying that Corbin can stay where he is and make small steps forward.

All our Love,
Terri and Travis

April 14, 2006 at 08:56 PM EDT
Blessed be the Name of the Lord, Blessed is his Holy Name!

We are overwhelmed by your committment to pray, by the volume of messages and calls, and our God is honored and glorified by your faithfulness. His mercies today are also overwhelming. Each specific need is being met in His perfect timing.

From the day Corbin was born, we've learned "what a difference 24 hours can make", through each hospitalization and even at home. The past 24 hours have been an excellent example. There are encouraging signs of improvement and, although I cannot see Corbin, I can hear my son's voice when he calls, and know that Corbin is somewhat better.

They are confident in Dr. Ohye's assessment and "gut" feelings about Corbin's recovery. Dr. O assured them there were many steps to take to recovery before considering drastic measures. He expects to know more over the next 24 hours as Corbin "proves himself". They refer to Corbin as the "drama king" who takes drastic turns quickly.

Specifically, the wise and skilled nursing staff is tirelessly making constant adjustments to improve many aspects for Corbin. He is resting on paralytic drugs and his fever is gone; he is urinating increasing volume; the drainage tube output is decreasing but more clear; he's needed no additional blood since last night; no infections have been found to cause the fever, so an echo has been done to assess cardiac output and both the function and fenestration look ok for this stage of recovery; addition of some nitric oxide to the ventilator acted as a vasodilator and brought up Corbin's blood pressure, improving oxygen perfusion, but will require weaning over time; lowering the ventilator rate and volume has not brought a corresponding decrease in oxygenation. Terri had remarked how "grey" Corbin looked after surgery, but that is changing. His nail beds are starting to turn pink. Corbin has run about 75% oxygen saturations over the past months, but with the vent turned down to 79%, he was at 89% this evening. They are starting to allow him to awaken a little and will keep "fine tuning" meds, temperature and ventilator.

In summary, although Corbin still has a very long way to go, there are some improvements and although nitric oxide is an additional support, there really are no new problem areas this evening. We give glory to God, Great things He has done THIS day.

Please pray for improved cardiac output, body temperature and blood pressure maintenance, and Corbin's strength and comfort. We could also use prayers for accurate and compassionate communications among all staff and to T&T, to maximize trust and cooperation for Corbin's care and recovery.

We are praying for safe travel for my family returning with the Mexico missions team tomorrow. How I pray their service was helpful to the orphanage and glorified God, but how thankful I will also be to have them home with us tomorrow night. It's been a VERY long week!

May you each consider the truths of this "Good" Friday, come closer to the foot of the Cross as Easter approaches, and each day thereafter.
Thank you dear friends, family and "heart family" for your continuing prayers and care for our family. I'll continue to post as there are changes. May everyone enjoy the gift of sweet sleep tonight.

GrandPenny

April 14, 2006 at 10:58 AM EDT
Because there is God, there is HOPE.

Thank you for your prayers and for all the wonderful messages of encouragement. We have read many and are comforted to know we can go to this board and be reminded of God's goodness. We will read and re-read your kind words over the coming days.

Corbin is now considered "critically stable". The bleeding has diminished and he is no longer receiving constant blood products. Because he was so responsive to voices and stimuli, he is now on paralytics to allow his body to rest, to prevent his heart rate from accelerating and his blood pressure from de-celerating. He is receiving LOTS of meds and fluids but is not elimating well, so is starting to swell (common post-surgery complication) so we need to pray for fluid discharge. The fever is still dangerously high and he remains on ice. His chest x-ray is good, showing typical fluid but no clots or serious pockets of fluid or blood.

T&T are living the nightmare of the ICU (PCTU at this hospital) but are mightily serving others in need there while witnessing trauma and tragedy at every turn. Please pray for strength for them and that God will use them to comfort others yet shield them from the overwhelming horrors. Terri would like to be able to just sit with Corbin (requires that the ICU be open for her)and regain perspective. Please pray that God will grant her this desire.

The older boys are each being distracted by a variety of friends today and I am being supported by some very faithful saints.

To God be the Glory for ALL He has done and will do. Thank you for your prayers and caring. I'll post when there is more news or significant change.
We pray with thanksgiving.

GrandPenny

April 13, 2006 at 10:38 PM EDT
Thank you for faithfully praying for Corbin and for all acts of kindness. In particular, I am aware that Amy and Becky have returned to the PCTU waiting room late this evening to support T&T -- that is huge!

Corbin is very sick. There is no other way to put it and this will be a very long night. Please, do not grow weary of praying, I humbly ask. Your messages are so helpful and encouraging and your prayers hold us up. If I go through the list of problems, drugs, treatments and hypotheses, you would only be overwhelmed. Corbin is in critical condition and many improvements need to happen quickly, but let me share his mother's words. "Corbin looks good. I feel he's getting better. He looks in my eyes and squeezes my hand and seems peaceful." Terri says she is calm and confident. God is at work for Corbin and in all things -- Travis is sitting in the waiting room comforting and praying with others. Lattany and Coach are praying in Mexico, David is praying in Ireland, around the country, around the world, let us lift up the name of the Lord, that He be glorified THIS day.

I will continue to update when there is news. It's hard being 1000 miles away, but I praise God for telephones and for those who can be there to hug T&T. Praise God for His church which has rallied in support of my family this day, so that I have not been alone and the little boys have been well cared for despite my need to be on the phone and in conversation or prayer most of the day. Praise God in ALL things!

Specific prayer requests: That Corbin's blood pressure stabilize, that his fever diminish, that no damage results, that he is comfortable, that he continues to eliminate fluids well, that the chest tubes can be unclogged without being replaced, that the blood loss will diminish, and that God will sustain him through the night with new mercies in the morning.

Love and thanks to all, GrandPenny

April 13, 2006 at 04:26 PM EDT
Let us not grow weary, but Rally to prayer!

We need to return to pray with rejoicing. Great things have been done but Corbin is struggling and we must lift him up continually for healing and strength.

There was considerable delay in "getting him up" to the PCTU but T&T were able to see Corbin very briefly before shift change. However, they are now being kept out and have found it a scarey situation, reminding them of past difficulties when they could get no news. God is in control and knows exactly what Corbin needs. May He grant Corbin healing and strength.

There is lots of bleeding, drainage from his 3 tubes and he's been given lots of blood products, platelets and near the maximum blood pressure meds.

Please continue to pray that Corbin's blood pressure would stabilize, that the bleeding would get under control and that Travis and Terri would feel the peace of the Lord. May God be Glorified in our prayers for Corbin.

Good news was that when Terri spoke to Corbin he immediately responded with lots of movement, so they had to sedate him again. His oxygen saturations are excellent but he's on full ventilation and his color is very grey.

I'll update again after T&T are allowed to see Corbin.
GrandPenny

April 13, 2006 at 01:20 PM EDT
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is GOOD, His love endures FOREVER!

I'll have to find out where those surgical nurses were stopping on their way to give updates! Although we were told at 11:30 that Corbin was just onto the pump, with the procedures and fontan yet to begin, at 12:30 Dr. Ohye was in the waiting room and DONE! Terri says he was all smiles and says things "couldn't be better".

Specifics: They augmented the RPA, left the LPA alone, augmented the SVC stent and removed his shunt. They completed the fontan pathway and were doing an echocardiogram to check heart function. His blood pressure (BP) and heart rate were fine and Dr. O indicated they would be closing the chest (sounds confident of success).

Praise God and thanks for the prayers AND visitors! T&T had so many visitors that the time flew by and it was a treat to see so many "heart" friends.

One big hurdle is past, but the long road of observation and recovery begins. We'll update again this evening, when Corbin is into the PCTU and we know the specific needs. Short term we must pray that his body will tolerate the new circulation. Long term, we know that removing the ventilator, resolving pleural effusions, and stabilizing vital signs and meds are some of the hurdles in the road to come.

Thanks for your prayers.
Praising God for His goodness and mercy. May He be glorified THIS day!

GrandPenny (thankful for helping friends here this afternoon -- I need a nap!)

April 13, 2006 at 11:29 AM EDT
I'm thankful to have heard from T&T AND my family on mission in Mexico. My daughter, Lattany, was able to carry the good news of cath results and surgery plans back to the team prior to the end of their morning worship. I'm glad I was able to speak directly with her this morning as her daddy's transfer of information had her really confused :)! The Mexico missions team is doing well and continues to pray and rejoice with us from the orphanage where they are serving.

As of 11 am, the surgeon was just beginning to open Corbin's chest as it took a LONG time to gain IV access. Corbin's veins are never easy. After getting through the scar tissue, they will get him hooked up to the pump/bypass to begin the fontan procedure. So we still have a long way to go and it may be late afternoon before there is more news.

Thanks for your patience and prayers.
Terri and Travis have Pastor Mearl (met him at the hospital when Corbin was born) and Terri's sister, Sherri, waiting with them. They are especially thankful for Colleen S and Jennyce's goodie bags of food, since they've not been able to get out for meals at all yet. We thank God for each of you.
Keep praying and expecting miracles!

GrandPenny

GrandPenny

April 13, 2006 at 09:43 AM EDT
God is paving the way.

Corbin was taken back for surgery at 8:45 am, which is rather late for "first case" except that he is also Dr. Ohye's ONLY case today. It takes considerable time to get through all the scar tissue, connect him to bypass, etc, so we're not sure when we'll get an update, but Dr. O expects the surgery to take until at least 2 pm.

Dr O spoke with T&T yesterday afternoon confirming that the cath indicates perfect pressures and significant growth in the SVC and PAs -- direct and specific answers to prayer! In addition to the fontan surgery, Ohye will cut across and enlarge the stent in the SVC to accommodate the growth and may augment the RPA. He suspects that the shunt (the modification to Corbin's hemi-fontan surgery) is no longer working and may be removed, which is a big surprise.

Corbin recovered from the cath and was given a "pass" to stay at RMH last night. Just recovering completely from a cath is significant and we are so thankful! However, when he spiked a fever, they brought him back to the floor to make sure he responded to Tylenol and was observed. As I recall, Corbin always runs a fever after every procedure -- guess his body knows how to fight!

Please pray for precision and safety as they work to re-open Corbin's chest -- it takes a LONG time and is one of the trickiest parts of the whole process; that he transitions on and off of bypass safely; that Dr. Ohye has clarity and precision in his repairs and thoroughness in observation and attention; that Corbin is protected from human error and infection; and that Terri and Travis feel God's peace as they wait.

Praise God for each one who is praying on Corbin's behalf today -- especially YOU! I understand the Mexico Mission team (3 of my family are there)and the SGC Brigades have prayed corporately as well as hundreds of others around the world. Nearly 800 follow this carepage alone, plus all the family and church prayer chains throughout. We thank God for every prayer. God commands us to pray for one another and His blessings in return are immeasurable.

Please also pray for my family on the Mexico Mission. I am concerned that I have not heard from them, although they are very aware of the cath and surgery schedule. May God give them peace and contentment while they are away from the news and information regarding Corbin. I pray that God will find a way to let them contact me. We are thankful for the many who have offered support to T&T in Michigan and those helping me in Va -- including dear friends coming to be with me today -- it's so hard to wait, but God's timing is perfect!

May God be Glorified THIS Day. We praise Him for all that He has done to prepare Corbin for this surgery, recognize and rejoice in His miracles and anxiously await even more evidences of His sovereignty and grace!

GrandPenny

April 12, 2006
God's Love Endures Forever, Sing Praise!

Ok, this is my third attempt to complete this message (I'm a technological imbicile) so I hope I get it all in again.

Corbin is safely out of the cath lab and in a room on the 5th floor. He is still asleep and may be given a pass to spend the night with his parents, unless the lines need to stay in for tomorrow's surgery. YES, surgery will proceed tomorrow. The entire cath took only 2 hours and Terri said "the doctors wore the biggest smiles. Corbin looks beautiful." No one wants to see their child go to open heart surgery, but since we know it is inevitable, for him to grow and thrive, we're rejoicing that he is ready.

Remember our prayer requests?
In order for Corbin to have this surgery he needs:
Tricuspid Valve to be working with no more than "mild to moderate" leakage. IT'S MINIMAL
Pressure in his pulmonary arteries to be lower than 15. (last check was 22 to 25!) THEY ARE 11 & 12 !
Pulmonary arteries to have grown FORGOT TO ASK, BUT ASSUMING SO
Superior vena cava to have grown to accept more blood flow. FORGOT TO ASK, BUT THE STENT WILL NEED TO BE AUGMENTED, CUT OUT OR REPLACED
To remain healthy and infection-free prior to surgery, including strong by eating well! YES, YES, YES

How kind of our God to provide evidence of His work and reassurance for the days to come. I will post as surgery proceeds tomorrow.
May God be glorified THIS day,
GrandPenny

April 11, 2006

2006-04-11T20:36:00.000-04:00

The Grace of God is with the Grabb family.

Corbin and parents had an uneventful drive to Michigan and a real treat visiting and staying over with heart friends Halle and Amy, before reporting to Mott Children’s Hospital on Monday. Halle, who had her Fontan surgery recently, was such an encouragement to Terri and Travis – hopefully to Corbin, too!

Check-in day was uneventful except “no room” at Ronald McDonald House (RMH), so they stayed in the hospital hotel, Med Inn. It’s VERY nice but far more expensive, so they were relieved to get to move to RMH this afternoon. I will apologize in advance for any errors or confusion in my messages. I will be getting the information “second hand” and trying to process it from medical to layman terms.

Today Corbin had a sedated echocardiogram, chest x-ray and blood tests. He was not happy about not being allowed to eat or drink and went from “pleading” with every sign he knows, to big sad tears, to outright anger, and was hysterical by the time they reported for the echo. How sad that they work for over a year to get him to eat, he just becomes an independent eater and then they won't let him eat! The sedatives worked, however, and he was still sleeping it off hours later.

No “official” news, but T&T watched the echo and know that bloodflow through the stent is great and there is only “minimal” tricuspid valve leakage (as opposed to moderate previously). The doctor could not get a look at the Right Pulmonary Artery (RPA) nor the shunt, so they don’t know the size or condition of the RPA, but they know by stethoscope that the shunt is open and working (and because his oxygen saturations are still low). There is a new issue and that is the inominate vein (feeds the lungs) is occluded and Corbin’s body has made “collateral” veins in order for the blood to have somewhere to go. That’s apparently why his left chest is blue, so they will do a contrast study as part of the heart catheterization (cath) to figure out where his blood is going and the condition of the vein and collaterals.

His coumadin (blood thinner) levels are optimal for tomorrow’s cath and upcoming surgery. The cath will be Wednesday, late morning (2nd case) and he may be admitted to the unit at that time to leave the lines in for Thursday’s surgery. T&T don’t expect to see Dr. Ohye (surgeon) until just before surgery and Corbin is his first and only case that day. Last May, it was 6 am when Dr. Ohye entered in his suit (not scrubs), that they first found out there would be no surgery. So they may not know the “plan” this time until the last minute. Tomorrow’s cath will determine the course of Thursday’s surgery.

Gunnar, Aiden and Brodie are doing great and we’re staying very busy from playgrounds to lessons, painting, trampoline, scooter rides, books and even learning some new handcrafts. Please refer to the earlier specific prayer requests posted and know that we sincerely appreciate your prayers for Corbin’s healing, treatment and recovery.

May God be Glorified in ALL things THIS day.
Until tomorrow,
GrandPenny

April 9, 2006

Terri, Travis and Corbin left early this morning to drive to Ann Arbor. They hope to make the trip in one day, but that will depend upon Corbin's ability to be still!

When they dropped off the other 3 boys last night, I must say that Corbin is definitely at his best. Happy, playful, active, no oxygen, eating fully on his own, no developmental delays. As I gave him my "instructions" (to be content, but not too content -- to do his best to come home very soon), he looked at me and nodded. So very many people have prayed for him and over him in person, that I really believe he understands.

Terri and Travis have done a phenomenal job preparing for this trip, only by the grace of God. Its anticipation is overwhelming, but their strength is apparent: "for when I am weak, God is strong."

The schedule for Corbin 's Testing and Treatment is as follows:

Sunday, April 9 - Travel by car to Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Monday , April 10th - Check into the Ronald Mc Donald House or MedInn, hospital paperwork, and meet with hospital Social Services.

Tuesday, April 11th - Blood work, EKG, Sedated Echocardiogram, Chest x ray , Check up with Cardiology and Gastroenterology.

Wednesday, April 12th - Heart Catherization (although Dr. Ohye is now suggesting they skip this part)

Thursday , April 13th - Open Heart Surgery (Fontan Procedure)

Our prayer requests for Corbin and family:

In order for Corbin to have this surgery he needs:
Tricuspid Valve to be working with no more than "mild to moderate" leakage.
Pressure in his pulmonary arteries to be lower than 15. (last check was 22 to 25!)
Pulmonary arteries to have grown
Superior vena cava to have grown to accept more blood flow.
To remain healthy and infection-free prior to surgery, including strong by eating well!

We ask you to Pray that:

The family travels safely, without incident, to Michigan.

That all logistical details of lodging, etc. will fall into place.

Corbin would not have difficulty coming off of the ventilator after the surgery.

He will not be frightened by the doctors, nurses and staff as he undergoes dozens of tests, blood draws, IV’s and procedures.

They are able to gain access in the only two arterial sites available for his heart catherization, without having to go through his liver, which increases the risks of infection and involves a very painful recovery.

He will not have trouble with fluid accumulation in his lungs and heart during the recovery, as he did last time.

Corbin can stay infection-free during his days in the hospital.

Corbin’s body will be able to handle the change in blood circulation by the surgery and allow the doctors to close his chest upon completion of the surgery.

Corbin is protected from human error and handled gently and skillfully by all hospital staff.

Gunnar, Aiden, and Brodie will not be fearful during this time and will feel God’s love as they are at GrandPenny's.

Penny (Travis’ mom) will not have any problems caring for the boys and her health will remain well, especially during the first week when most of her family is on a mission in Mexico. Layna will be home helping her.

Travis and Terri will feel confident in their decisions for Corbin’s care. That they will feel God’s leading in all decisions.

The many families, doctors, nurses and staff they meet will see them as a light and they will Glorify God in ALL things.

Praise God for those who've helped Terri prepare and offered to help me also.Thank you for your care and prayers! We expect many miracles.
GrandPenny

Preparations Underway

2006-04-03T17:54:00.000-04:00

We are all doing wonderful. Preparing for the big adventure in Michigan with Corbin. We have a duffel bag of toys packed to try to keep him happy and busy in the hospital. I made a board book for him of his family, favorite things, and his signs for him to look at and for the nurses to use as well. I also completed his medical care notebook with all his surgical history and growth history from GI as well. It has everything imaginable in it. If anyone needs suggestions about putting one together send me a note and I will help. We have the other boys all packed up and ready for Grand Penny's as well. Now, I am just staying busy to not worry about what is to come. Today I cleaned out my closet and found size 4 jeans!!! It has been YEARS since I have worn that size! Needless to say they are no longer in my closet!

We had a beautiful prayer meeting for Corbin last week. I can't thank everyone enough for their support and encouragements. We feel so blessed. Emotionally I think everyone is doing very well. At times their are moments when you get a flicker of fear but God has been so good in giving us amazing friends to hold us up and remind us to not be fearful but trust in God. For those that could not attend the prayer meeting but would still like a prayer pin please contact me through email and we will get you one.

God Bless

Spring!!!

2006-03-13T08:40:00.001-05:00

We just love the warmer weather. The boys are all doing great. We just celebrated Gunnar's 7th birthday! It is hard to believe that he is growing into such a young man so quickly. He received his ultimate gift! A motorcycle! Yes, that is right I was only able to hold Travis off until he was 7! He actually did great after a few falls began riding like he had done it all his life! We were all amazed. He still had a few problems with the brakes and ran into the playground slide once but overall did fantastic.

Corbin is doing very well. He did start last night with a croupy cough but we are praying that he doesn't start into something. We have four short weeks before our adventures at the U of M start up. Corbin is still having trouble drinking and we are using the pump full time to keep him fed. We are praying that after this next surgery he will pick back up and we can get him off the tube for good.

We have posted pictures of the past two months, click on the title and it will take you to shutterfly to view the phots! Enjoy

If you have trouble I posted the address so you can cut and paste it in your browser window.

Love
The Grabbs

http://grabbfamily.shutterfly.com/action/

Crazy things kids say and do!

2006-02-03T16:26:00.000-05:00

Gunnar was walking around the house and Travis asked what he was listening to Gunnar replied "Jesus!"

Aiden was talking with Jennyce our Monday helper and told her that he was also having teeth troubles. His were falling out because he was getting to old!

Brodie was sitting on the couch with me and started crying because "God made his feet stinky!" It was hard not to laugh as I comforted him and explained that feet do get stinky in socks and shoes all day when you are a sweaty boy!

Corbin has officially earned his Doctorate in Teasing! As we corrected him for hitting Brodie. He then tried just to lightly hit, then corrected again. Which then he tried to poke at him, so we corrected him AGAIN. Then he proceeded to almost poke him. We were laughing at how smart he was and advanced his teasing skills are. When Travis walks through the front door he always announces his presence loudly. Corbin replies "MAMA"! Travis is convinced he is doing it now to tease him.

As for an update on us, we are all feeling much better. Corbin has fallen into a routine of accepting 5 ounce bolus feedings four times a day. This is a HUGE step for him. He does get sick on occasion but overall seems to do well for them. He is gaining weight well on this new plan. We realize now that, Corbin was not drinking nearly enough on his good days to stay hydrated. He has a long ways to go but something we will not worry about now. He still only says Mama to everyone, but is now imitating some signs. He did say the op sound the other day so we are getting some other sounds.

We posted new photos of the Corbin and the boys from the warm weather outside. Brodie is to funny as he sits in the sled. Not really understanding why it doesn't work without the snow. Corbin loves all being outside but did not like touching the grass when he falls. He also had his first taste of sand from the sandbox. I am sure that is not his last.

Hope all have a wonderful week and God Bless.
Terri and Crew

Crazy Weeks

2006-01-26T21:30:00.000-05:00

We had a few crazy weeks here lately. Corbin became ill with the Croup which began the round of illness. We then had a virus begin which is when Corbin stopped drinking or eating. We then realized his g tube site was not working and was actually infected. Then we had Brodie who begin feeling ill and go into breathing problems requiring nebulizer treatments. Then to add more fun to the entire crazy weeks Travis was out of town during part of this time. Yes, it really was that crazy and at times I was not sure if I was coming or going.

Things are much better now and we are happy to report that everyone is well once again. We are feeding Corbin with bolus feedings after learning that he was not receiving adequate liquids to keep him hydrated even on the best of his eating days when he was well. He is up to 4 ounces at a time. We have changed him to neocate 1 plus which is 30 calories an ounce. Today he went into the peds office and received his synergis shot. They asked that I bring in his oxygen as he "scares them" according to the nurse. So off we went today, weighed in at a whopping 22 pounds! Yes, according to their scale he gained a pound and 12 ounces this past month. What fluids, some extra calories, and bolus feedings can do for a guy!

We topped off our crazy week with dealing with a three year old that is still fighting enemia and VERY whiney! After putting on his socks to leave for the doctor three times he was placed into the car without socks or shoes. Rushing off and Grand Penny watching the boys in the car while I helped hold Corbin down for his yucky shot, I forgot my purse. Then having to drive all the way back home to get my purse to then go and find a fax machine to fax off Corbin's prescriptions a second time as they did not get enough information the first time. Only to have the fax not go through after five attempts. We then went on in our errands to try to replace Brodie's glasses after having them only a little over a week they are already broken. Unfortantely they were to busy today to see us even though I did call ahead and so we did not get them fixed. So after spending three hours out with four children, all not really wanting to be going from store to store, I finally gave up and came home. Another day without making it to the grocery store! Just did not have the energy to face that after such a frustrating morning. We did accomplish one thing today. Corbin had his speech therapy today! Crazy weeks and Crazy days! I know that there will be many more crazy days and weeks to come.
God Bless from the Crazy Grabb Family

2006-01-16T15:16:00.000-05:00

Mary Catherine one of Corbin's wonderful nurses came for the weekend. We had a great time. Did lots of shopping, decorated the boys room finally, and spent lots of time playing with boys. The boys really love Mary Catherine and love all her visits. Brodie asks every day when she is coming back to play some more. Thank you Mary Catherine for the great visit. We love you!

2006-01-16T15:11:00.000-05:00

Mary Catherine came to visit. We had a wonderful time. Corbin enjoyed many new tastes such as wipped cream. Not sure how many calories there are but he sure loved it.

Broken Hearts

2006-01-11T22:48:00.000-05:00

As we entered into the world of CHD never did we dream we would have to watch so many of our friends lose their children to this disease. We are really heart broken for them. It is hard to understand or imagine what they are going through. Yet also what comes to mind is that it just as easily could have been Corbin. I am not sure why we are the ones who are blessed but try to always remember that each moment each day is so very special and treasure each moment.

As we grieve over the loss of our beautiful heart friend Loghan. We also have to plan Corbin's next surgery. For now our date is April 13th. We will arrive on April 10th, have preop on the 11th, and the Cath is the 12th. Surgery will be the 13th.

For now we enjoy each moment and try to forget what looms ahead.

Terri and family

The Last Day of 2005

2005-12-31T15:33:00.000-05:00

Today is the very last day of 2005! As we close of this year we remember all of Corbin's wonderful accomplishments of this year. We are grateful for God's ever loving care of our family.

We also remember our friends who are in the same struggle as us. That are just going day by day and grateful just to wake up and be able to have one more day. Trying to forget that their is more surgery, further hospitalizations looming in the new year. We remember our friends who are still sitting in the chairs in the hospital just watching their child struggle to continue to live. We remember our friends that no longer have their children with them here on earth. We remember all of you who have stood beside us and prayed for our son's recovery and milestones. We remember and thank God that we remember it all. We pray we never forget so we can always live like we remember and treat each day like it is our last and live it for Him!

Terri

2005-12-26T13:57:00.000-05:00

December 26, 2005

We are all doing very well. We had a wonderful Christmas with the family. It was great to see everyone ripping open presents. The boys told us about the very first Christmas. Then GrandPenny and Poppy came over. So we had round two with Christmas. Then after they left we had GrandPap and Grandma Sue over for dinner for round three. It was lots of fun.

Our relatives all could not get over what a wild little boy Corbin has turned into. He climbs onto anything he can make into a stool. He flips over my laundry baskets (laundry and all) and then proceeds to climb right on. He really loves to climb over the ottoman in the family room then fall into the chair so that he bounces on his face into the pillows. He has learned that my kitchen chair is also a small step ladder. He is always lifting the lid and climbing up onto it. We may have to remove it from the kitchen. He also has a fascination with my spice drawer. He loves getting into the spices and we have the proof of it too. A lovely picture of him white from head to toe of cornstarch! The crazy kid took it out and poured it all over himself before I could stop him. Then proceeded to try and eat it! He has no evidence of his oral aversion from one year ago! GrandPenny had the privilege of chasing Corbin, Christmas eve night at our church service. He was running all around and if you don't keep up with him for his oxygen he just rips it right out of his nose and keeps going! Nothing stops this little stinker. She redirected him from the stairs, the flowers, the signs and tried to keep his oxygen in too. I think she needed to rest after her hour of nonstop activity with Corbin! If anyone needs some additional exercise we know of a new weight loss program. Place a 20 lb oxygen tank on your back and keep up with a very active 18 month old at all times without knocking him unconscious as you bend up and down from the tank swinging around!

Corbin and boys are enjoying a relaxing week with Daddy. We received the unexpected surprise that he has this week off. All the time Travis took off for Corbin's doctor and hospital stays this year was never counted against him in sick or vacation time. The company (United Rentals) was really amazing and we are ever so grateful. So Travis has to use up some of his vacation time before the new year!

Have a great new year and God Bless.

We posted new video of wild man Corbin doing his new stunts!
Terri and Family

December 22, 2005
Merry Christmas to our Dedicated Followers,

I pray that this Christmas we all take the time to remember the true reason we celebrate, for the amazing gift God sent us, His son, who lived and died for us!

"But when he had considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, 'Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife; for the Child who has been conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. She will bear a Son; and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.' Now all this took place to fulfill what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet: 'BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL BE WITH CHILD AND SHALL BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL CALL HIS NAME IMMANUEL,' which translated means, 'GOD WITH US.'" (Matthew 1:20-23)

This week we have had physical therapy, our pediatrician appointment, and our first appointment with speech. Corbin is doing very well. He has gained weight. We are over 20 pounds, finally. We had his second synargis shot to protect from RSV today. I really dislike having to put him through that shot. He always ends up throwing up and scaring the Doctor and Nurse. He stops breathing and he then begins to throw up and gets very very purple. The nurses alternate who has to be the one that has to give it to him. I feel bad for them as well.

We spoke to the Doctor about Corbin's new habit of drinking a bottle all night long to sleep, waking up so many times we lose count of how many times we have gotten up with him. We have tried the cry it out routine but that just ends up us changing many sheets due to him vomiting so much and him getting sweaty and shaky. Not sure at what point that becomes dangerous with his heart condition so we have decided to not even try anymore.

Corbin is making great strides in his physical therapy. He is now climbing up onto small steps and walking all over the place. His new speech therapist is very good. She herself had a daughter with hypoplastic left lung and a g tube. So she was very familiar with all of Corbin's complications. One of her first observations on Corbin is that his saturations drop while he eats his bottle. He needs more oxygen while eating so he can drink better. He works so hard on swallowing and sucking he still hasn't mastered the breathing part. We have also brought him back to the haberman feeder since he can only do an ounce at a time with the bottle. We will also be working on getting him to accept a cup with milk instead of a bottle. She is beginning to work on his speech as well. Our goal is to get him to begin to imitate sounds of babbling. Not sure I am ready for another person in the house that can speak. Corbin can make sounds, but he just has not made words or actively ever tried. He has shown no interest, but he does understand well. So we know that he is very capable of speech.

Travis is having a minor surgical procedure tomorrow. Please keep him in your prayers. Corbin has been the healthiest one in our family as our other three have caught and passed on colds. It is by your prayers he has been so healthy. Thank you.

Our next appointment is not until January 11th with GI. Then we have an 18 month well visit with Corbin that we have to make at some point early next month. His synargis shot for January will be after the 20th. So we only have three doctor appointments for Corbin and one for Brodie. Brodie has an appointment with the eye surgeon in January as well. Praying each of you, and especially those that have lost their little ones this year, May you all have a wonderful Birthday Celebration for our Lord and Savior. Terri and Family

Family Vacations

2005-12-14T09:28:00.000-05:00

We made it back from vacation. Gunnar, Aiden and Brodie said it was the best vacation ever. We all(except Corbin) really enjoyed the water slides. Gunnar's favorite was the family slide that all could ride together on. Aiden loved the large water pail dumping on him in the fort. Brodie loved sitting on the beaver in the pool. There was lots to do. Corbin's favorite was the cub club play area. He learned how to climb the steps and slide down the slide by himself while we were there. We even spent a day visiting our family in Virginia Beach. They were able to meet Corbin for the first time and we met three of our cousins that were born since we had last gotten together.

As far as Corbin's health, he is doing very well. He has a weight check and synargis shot on the 22nd at the pediatricians office. He is doing much better on the neocate and his bloody stools are all cleared up. We have removed all his GI Reflux meds except the miralax. He is doing wonderful without them. He is on only five different heart medications. What a difference from 1 year ago! We do not see the cardiologist until February! We see the GI Doctors in early January. So we are beginning to slim down to once a month doctor appointments. Life is definitely getting easier here!

We are beginning to gather together our questions we need to ask about the next procedure for Corbin. So fellow heart mom's that have gone through the Fontan please feel free to give us your input. At Corbin's last Catheterization at 1 year, his pulmonary pressures were still in the 20's, with a shunt and on 1 liter of oxygen. (for the non heart community it is best to have them below 14) It is our understanding that the pressures are the biggest reason for failed fontan's so please give us any input and medical references so we can ask and research where we need to go next with Corbin.

Thank you for your support to our family. We are enjoying the wonderful season. We feel really blessed to have another opportunity to celebrate our Savior's birth as a family and at home once again. Please say a prayer for the many families that are in the hospital and have lost a loved one this year, as we pray they will especially feel God's love and care for them.

May you all feel God's love on this glorious day.
Terri and Family

Its Snowing!

2005-12-06T06:43:00.000-05:00

Yeah its Snowing!!!! I love the snow. I love it that is until I am stuffing three little boys into their snowsuits and when I get the last one in the first one tells me he has to go to the bathroom! Then the rest of them do too and so we remove all the clothes and start all over again! No matter how many times we send them to the bathroom first it always happens that way!

Corbin is doing very well. He was placed back on oxygen full time. He just was not ready for the time off. In Gods timing we will come off the oxygen. We also had to take him off of Dairy products. We were making the switch to whole milk but he continued to show signs of distress that I did question but it was consistently pushed aside by the doctors. Finally when he started having large amounts of bloody stools did the Doctors agree that the first milk and dairy test must have been wrong and he is allergic. So we are back on Neocate once again.

We have finally made progress in the home health care delivery department. It has been a huge battle that we have finally found someone to help us. After calling our insurance agency and filing a formal complaint we received the necessary information on who to call (the department supervisor)to receive Corbin's oxygen. Preferably not at midnight as they have delivered in the past. We are finally receiving his monitor leads so we can accurately check his saturation's. We received a phone number where we can call to order his food, and g-tube supplies as they closed the department and FORGOT to disconnect the numbers and they were still taking orders over the voice mail. Yes, an entire department is closed and not one person wonders why they are not receiving calls from that area for over two months! Go figure!

Lattany is doing very well now. She is slowly beginning the weaning progress off the many breathing medications. She was able to attend part of church service yesterday, had lunch with us as well and attended Travis' birthday party. It was wonderful to see her up and about after her being so very ill.

Travis, I and the boys are going on vacation this week to Williamsburg. We are going to the indoor water park, the Great Wolf Lodge. We are looking forward to some down time where the older boys can really let loose and enjoy themselves. I have been catching up on my creative memory albums these past few weeks. I did not realize how hard of time it was for them when Corbin was so sick. I am glad that God allows us to forget these things, but looking back I realized how little they were especially Brodie. They really deserve this time to play and not worry. Gunnar and Aiden asked if Corbin would still be alive when it gets warm again. Would he be able to go to the pool again? I don't realize how hard this is on them at times. They are really great boys and never complain about all the attention that Corbin gets for his many needs. We are really blessed.

Every Monday I receive help from the most wonderful person. Jennyce, thank you so much for all you do for us. Today Jennyce helped administer Corbin's medications, helped hold him down while I did his blood test, we had to change his g-tube after realizing it was leaking all over him, fix lunch for the boys, made sure Corbin had his oxygen on as he traveled all over the house, made sure each boy was given individual attention by reading many stories to each of them, helped Gunnar with school, sorted out Brodie's clothes that fit and did not, helped me pack for our trip and do six loads of laundry. I am sure I missed some of what we did but just listing that exhausted me again! :) What would we do without you! You are our hero for serving us each week. We love you! I hope Jim and Johnny take good care of you when you get home. You deserve some pampering!

Thank you to all of you for your prayers and love for our family,
Terri and Family

2005-11-27T18:47:00.000-05:00

Mommy lets me do things none of my brothers would ever have gotten away with. I think it is my weight and eating issues that lets me get away with this.

2005-11-27T18:46:00.000-05:00

Beano Bunny is either getting slower or Corbin is getting Faster! Oh Oh Beano! Your in Trouble now.

2005-11-27T18:45:00.000-05:00

This is how Corbin gets his exercise! Chasing our bunny around the family room! Good thing Beano Bunny is fast!

2005-11-22T10:23:00.000-05:00

Gunnar and Aiden two peas in a pod! Where one is the other is not far off!

2005-11-22T10:22:00.000-05:00

Yummy spagetti!!! I am really getting into the eating as you can see!

2005-11-21T18:53:00.000-05:00

Corbin is doing really well. Loves to be on the move and get into anything that he can. His favorite places in the house are the bathroom to splash in the toilet and his brothers room to try and eat the legos.

2005-11-21T18:50:00.000-05:00

Take 1 !!!! This may take awhile!

2005-11-21T18:48:00.000-05:00

Take 560! :) At getting all four boys!

2005-11-21T18:46:00.000-05:00

Christmas Pictures With Brodie and Corbin

November 18

2005-11-18T10:52:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone,
I am back after much work on our computer. If you have ever received an email from me in the past, I no longer have your email address so sorry for the lack of communication from me. If you send us a new email we will re enter you in our outlook. We had to wipe it clean and I never backed up my outlook. As Grand Penny says Technology is great when it works! Currently Grand Penny's computer is terminally ill as well so she has no way to communicate with you either.

We have had a very busy two weeks. Many doctor appointments. Corbin saw an audiologist and did a simple hearing test. They determined he did have small hearing loss but not enough that it would affect his speech. Then we saw the ENT about Corbin's continuous ear infections. He was not sure of the cause without doing a sedated MRI or CAT scan which we are not willing to do at this point unless they become untreatable with antibiotics. Last week we had his well visit and weight check. He lost 12 ounces for his first week eating on his own. Not the greatest news but they were willing to work on him going another week.

This week we had two appointments his weight check and flu shot. He has not lost in my mind (1 ounce) difference in how they read the scale! So we have been given another week to try. He really needs to gain a few ounces by next week or I can already hear the words. Put him back on that dreaded tube. We also saw the Cardiologist. She just loved how great he looked and could not get over how PINK his lips were! They have never really been pink before always a blue hue! Due to how high his saturations were we are doing a trial run off oxygen all together! We are on the saturation monitor for a week and if he stays this high we can come off altogether! We are staying where we are on all his medications since he is doing so well. For some really great news, his blood pressure was perfect difference between the arms and legs! You expect a 10 degree difference with a child such as Corbin and that is exactly what it was.

So we are to hold tight this winter, stay healthy and the plan is while Corbin is doing well catch him on the upswing and do the next surgery (whatever that may be hopefully the Fontan) this late late spring or summer. She feels it would be best before he starts showing any symptoms of needing it as her experience has been they do better if you catch them at the high point.

I can honestly say I dread the Fontan. I would love to close my eyes and for it to be over. But on the same note I don't want to make time go faster and miss a second of Corbin and his brothers. It is the strangest feeling to have when thinking of sending your son, whom you have already witnessed near death, back into experience the unthinkable another open heart surgery that is so very risky for him yet needed. Please pray for us that we will not fear Corbin's future as it is a temptation.

Grandma Mimi You will be happy to know Travis and I have even managed to squeeze in our own Doctor appointments this past month and all is well with us too!

Please pray for Travis' Dad as he is recovering from Back surgery. For Grand Penny as she finally received a diagnosis on her illness and begins a very difficult medicine regime (similar to when Corbin came home)to regain her health. For Corbin to stay healthy this winter. For the many families that we know facing this holiday in the hospital. Miss Taylor Forbes has been in the hospital over a year waiting on a new heart. She has the same heart condition as Corbin. Please join us in praying that she receives that gift of life and makes it home for Christmas! Also a big Congratulations to Stacey and Zach on the birth of their first daughter Erin Michelle!

Much Love and Prayers for all Terri

October 27th

2005-10-27T07:07:00.000-04:00

Hello Family and Friends,

We are doing very well. We celebrated Brodie's birthday last month and Aiden's this month. We have gone to the pumpkin patch as well as the air and space museum with some friends from church. Plus keeping up with home school and Corbin's doctor's appointments. Travis spent a few weekends out of town for weddings and car stuff. So we have been a little busy.

Corbin has started on his fourth ear infections and bronchitis. He started out this past weekend with croup but slowly it turned into something more. We are really happy with how well he is handling this illness. Only once during this illness was he close to us taking him to the hospital. Since that night he has not gotten any worse and slowly is getting better. This illness has helped us in making a decision on seeing an audiologist. We are taking him on November 8th to see an ENT specialist and audiologist. Please pray for his infection to be gone. They are going to try to determine if the infection is clearing totally or if it is just not going away with the antibiotics we are using. They are also going to look at how he swallows. Corbin will only hold his bottle laying flat on his back to drink his milk. He still has not mastered a sipper cup so we are working on that skill. Him laying on his back can be a cause for the infections from him not swallowing correctly. We are also going to check to see if his hearing is alright from his many procedures. Also document his language delay in hopes that this will help us get approval for speech therapy for him from our insurance.
We have been monitoring his blood pressure from home now. He is holding steady at 30 degree difference between arms and legs. That is great news! We have also started the RSV shots (synergis). Because insurance only paid for Nov through February, our pediatrician paid for his October shot! They are a truly amazing group of doctors. We are also planning a family mini vacation to Williamsburg VA in early December. Hope all is going well with you. Please pray we can have a hospital free winter. We are truly blessed to have so many care and love our son. Thank you for your love. For those that would like a wallet size picture of Corbin, please email me your address at tgrabb@cox.net.
Thank you and God Bless, Terri and Family

October 18th

2005-10-18T14:04:00.000-04:00

Today we went to the pediatrician office for the flu shots and check up. Corbin is still not at 20 lbs he is so close, 19 lbs 6 ozs. He is still struggling with a cold and infection so he was not able to get his flu shot today. We hope he will be better in November. We also had to postpone Brodie's flu shot as well. Gunnar, Aiden and I received ours!

We also received approval finally for the synergis shots. Those are to protect against RSV. He will begin receiving those in November as well. He was to get that next week but since he is ill and on antibiotics again we have to wait.

Another round with the insurance that has finally been cleared up is the therapy. He has been approved again to restart physical therapy. We will have to have a re-evaluation to determine if he needs other services as well. This is supposed to begin next week we will have to see.

Also we are supposed to take him to see an Audiologist for hearing tests. This has been difficult for Travis and I. Neither one of us wants to add another Doctor onto the list and also put Corbin through any more of this then necessary. We also are unsure if he truly needs it or is just delayed in making real speech. So we have been putting this off. Please pray for us to make the correct decision on this. We are also supposed to see a neurologist but have decided to put this off as well. We are not sure that this is really necessary for Corbin. Please pray that these are the correct decision we are making and that he continues to make progress in his development and speech.

Thank you for your support and prayers.
Love,
The Grabb's
http://www.grabbfamily.com