#FinnStrong

We spent a looooooooong time naming Finn when he was just a few days old. We discussed lots of options and had a lot of criteria to find the 'perfect' name. (Kyle even developed a decision matrix spreadsheet on the marker board in our postpartum room). And we settled on Finnegan. We always knew we would call him Finn. Some of you probably scratched your heads and chuckled a bit. His name isn't exactly "normal" or "classic." But, we always knew we loved the meaning. According to Nameberry, "Finn is a name with enormous energy and charm, that of the greatest hero of Irish mythology, Finn MacCool (aka Fionn mac Cuumhaill), an intrepid warrior with mystical supernatural powers, noted as well for his wisdom and generosity." Our Finn is a strong warrior. With big beautiful blue eyes, and a giggling oohing and cooing personality. The last few days have been tumultuous. What started as "just a cold" quickly became respiratory failure involving a trauma room at the Ft Belvoir ER, hours to stabilize and transport his perfect little body, and now a stay at the Pediatric ICU in one of the finest children's hospitals in the country. Kyle and I (along with our support team) will focus on the positives, and are really trying to avoid spending much time in the "what ifs." The worry and fear won't help. So, each day I will update you with the "positives." Some days we may need to focus on a "what if" or pull for a particular outcome, but for now we just count the positives, no matter how small. The team of docs, nurses, technicians, and support staff is amazing. The support received near and far has been amazing. Our "boots on the ground" support here in DC has been awesome. I never once had to bat an eye and wonder how Everett was doing. Food deliveries, friends to laugh with, and all kinds of errands and favors to support our Farrell-Mattox family. For now we agree that a day in the PICU that isn't a bad day is a good day. So, using that definition all of our days here have been "good" days. The docs look for trends, and we take baby steps to recovery. Right now we need your support through your thoughts, prayers, deeds. Take us with you to church if that's what you do. Take us with you to the yoga mat or on your long run or during your WOD, if that's what you do. Take us to your temple, or sangha, or favorite spot in nature. I know some of you want to visit, but the PICU isn't a place for many visitors. We will move to a regular hospital room soon, and then we will transition back home eventually. We'll visit then! When you wonder, "what can I do" please just hug your babies a little extra, trust your gut instinct, take care of yourself if you are ill, and WASH YOUR HANDS!! Today's positives coming soon .