We had our first experience with croup last month. It came on fast. We took him to the Dr. who sent us straight to the ER. Breathing treatments, x-rays, steroids, IV. Nothing was working. The Dr was concerned and wanted to send us to the children’s hospital. I had left the house with 1 diaper, 1 bottle, uncharged phone, and my bag. Little did I know that a 30min trip to the Dr would turn into 2 days away from home.

It was 2:30 when the ER Dr told us abou the transfer. School was out soon, Dan was at work, and my phone was now dead.

I only know 3 numbers. My parents home, Dans, and mine. (not ideal in an emergency)

Everything was happening so fast and I felt so lost, so unconnected without my phone. I couldn’t call anyone for help.

They had me leave the room to start the IV, which I’m grateful for.

Finally, the hospital found a charger. I called Dan. I opened my mouth, but no words would come out.

My baby started to scream from behind the door. Then the tears came.

I looked up to see Dan rush around the corner.

As he held me in his arms I lost it. It all came crashing down on me.

I felt like a failure as a mother.

How did I not know that he was struggling to breathe? That it was this bad?

They finally opened the door. My baby was covered in holes, tubes and bandages.

Tears streamed down his face and he reached out his arms for his Dad.

We had a few moments together as a family before the ambulance arrived.

Dan gave him a priesthood blessing.

He calmed instantly.

Moments later, the room was full again. Papers were signed. My baby was strapped to a stretcher. Dr was giving orders.

I was trying franticly to make arrangements. Locke needed to be picked up from school, photoshoots canceled…

I felt like I was calling all the wrong people. It was such a run around.

I boarded the ambulance with my baby and headed  to Childrens Medical Center in Dallas.

Dan took Breck home to get Locke and try to figure out arrangement with the kids.

After he arrived home, a dear friend showed up at our home with dinner and insisted that she take the kids overnight. (what a blessing)

After that, everything just fell into place.

Dan came to the hospital. Family and friends were updated via facebook. My children were safe (and having the time of their life i’m sure).

And my baby was being cared for by some of the best Dr’s in the country.

After many more breathing treatments, steroids, and countless prayers offered by friends, family, and even strangers, we were able to take Rizden home the following evening.

We truly are so blessed to be surrounded by so much love.

Photos taken with iphone & Nikon D7000

xo, auburnSoul