This has been 2+ years in the making. After Noah died, April, my sister-in-law, had this idea to create a better space for those who spend so much time in the TCH waiting room. In Noah’s memory, she collected $7,855 to put toward a renovation project for the waiting room. Thanks to April’s perseverance, this room was finally completed.
We had a small unveiling today with our family, some of Terry’s co-workers and even one of Noah’s nurses. It was very special to see so many people paying tribute to Noah.
New chairs were purchased and the room was arranged in a way that allows families to be more comfortable during their time in this room. The best part was that artwork was done by a group of 6th graders to remember Noah’s life. No doubt, our balloon tradition was passed on to them, because the theme of each piece was balloons. It is awesome. I spoke with one of Noah’s head nurses. She was in charge of his care the whole week. I thanked her for being there, thinking that she probably didn’t remember us but was just nice enough to attend when invited. However, she said that she would not have missed it. She remembers Noah, the events of that week, remembers his bedside and caring for him. I am continually amazed at how God touched lives in so many different ways through Noah’s life.
We were given balloons to release when we left, and God used something as simple as that to paint a picture for me. As we released them, the balloons did not drift up in the sky like normal, but climbed up the side of the building. Passing every floor, as if to give each child a sign of hope and peace as they looked out a window. Once they balloons made their way to the very top of the building, they were released from the vacuum and they floated into the sky. Like they covered the building of sick children with love then drifted up to heaven.
If you ever find yourself at Texas Children’s please make your way to the NICU waiting room on the 4th floor and see this room dedicated to our son.
What awesome timing! I am so glad you guys got to do that before you move. I am also in awe of the mission and money that April raised for the dedication. I think it is incredible that the way you guys continue to honor Noah with balloons will also uplift and grace the lives of those that follow in your footsteps. I wish I could see it in person, but I’m glad you guys put those pictures up for us to see. I can’t wait to visit you guys in your new house in Nashville! It’s going to be an exciting change for you all. Love and miss you!
It sure is a mixed emotion reliving that experience via the blog. Tears come either way. What I was wondering, after spending time with Lifeline Chaplaincy visiting kids and families in those rooms towards the reaches of the balloons, is how many kids were looking out the window sick and tired of being stuck in this room. This escape sitting on the bench, alone, with a TV on behind them, family talking around them, finally catching a glimpse of life again. Wonder and amazement, I can imagine, filled their eyes, as they pondered the beginnings of these magical circles and their destination… oh man, where are they going?! Can I go too!!
I love how you described the balloons. You have such an awesome family, it is so wonderful how you all continue to celebrate Noah’s life and honor his memory. We are praying for your sweet family.
Thanks for the updates on the room. I will have to go check it out next time we visit the hospital. I fell in love with this idea from the beginning. I am so thankful for those who carried it out to completion.