Ela is back in the step-down unit (CCU)! So many nurses and others have commented about how quick Ela’s turn around was. I believe a part of that is due to the many prayers of God’s people on her behalf. This whole thing still feels surreal. It feels strange in a way but also good to be back over on the same unit that we waited 71 days in. We are happy to see familiar faces of nurses and others that have also become friends. They are excited and happy to see us back and Ela doing so well.

I have 4 prayer requests that I ask you, as Ela’s prayer warriors, to lift before the Father. 1) Please continue to pray for Ela. She is still not sleeping well. She is not completely back to herself yet. We are hoping and praying that getting her out of the CICU and back to familiar people and places in the step-down unit will help the lingering delirium dissipate in the very near future. 2) Pray for us as we start learning more about her transplant journey and taking over more of the care. 3) Ela is getting daily lab draws and point-of-care insulin checks (this means DAILY POKES and OUCHIES) for a little while starting tomorrow morning. She does not do well with these at all and she has already had so much trauma that we are nervous about these lab draws adding to her current emotional distress. Pray for her coping through this, for us as we help her bear it, and for the team to discuss other options if necessary. 4) Pray for the other little kids, some of which have become Ela’s friends and playmates, that are still waiting for their heart gift. Some have been waiting a very long time and would appreciate your prayers I am sure!

Thank you all for your continued love, prayers, giving and support. We are so humbled and just in awe….Thank you for reminding us of how BIG and GOOD God is!

Enjoy the video and pics of Ela leaving the CICU and walking over to her new room in the CCU (Cardiac Care Unit—step down).