I have been somewhat avoiding the actual video clip of Jimmy announcing that his son was born with a CHD and had to have surgery. I was sent the clip early yesterday morning from a family member…my sister-in-law quickly notified me to not watch the clip at work. I saw Facebook explode with the news and quickly learned that this video clip was about another kiddo that was born with a CHD. Though his CHD is different from Jackie’s, keep in mind there are around 40 known different types of CHDs, it is still a vivid reminder of the journey we are on. I posted to Facebook the link of the video with the comment that I would be watching later and just wanted to share…I still have yet to have the courage to watch the clip, I have however read the subtitles. I have so many emotions…I want to say so many things to Jimmy and his wife…and I am so grateful for the public exposure that Congenital Heart Defects are now receiving.
Here is the link to the video:
https://www.facebook.com/jimmykimmel/videos/1904032659873827/
I will at some point face my fear of actually listening to his voice, listening to his concern, listen to him find the words to share with the world what had happened. My husband heard the clip on the radio yesterday morning, turning his day upside down…he left work early and picked me up from work at 3:00…he needed to get out…he needed to be distracted. We both are on different healing journeys and that is okay…I am still quick to focus my energy on him when he actually admits to having a bad day. He is not one to share his feelings so openly. I was happy to leave work early and to spend the remaining of the day with him. We enjoyed one another’s company, we spoke of our Jackie, and we ended the day with laughter at my grandma’s house as Jack and my Dad spoke about work.
I know that I will find the courage and I am sure I will have more to say…I am sure I will cry…I am sure I will feel for them…I am sure I will be right back in the NICU with Jackie. Congenital Heart Defects are 1 in 100…research and awareness are key! I have said that many times and I will continue to say it…sharing this information is now apart of my life journey, and as long as someone is listening…as long as someone is reading my blogs…I will continue to share.
All us heart mammas can thank Jimmy and his family for bringing much-needed attention and awareness to CHDs this week. I am sure I speak for all of us when I say that I am looking forward to having Jimmy join us on our lifetime mission to serve our kiddos and to share our stories with the world…to inform…to educate…to inspire…Thank you Jimmy for sharing so openly…thank you Jimmy for being so brave.
We love you!
#chdawareness #angelmommy #ourjackofhearts