Parent-to-Parent

                                                                                                                         
It is very important to Corey Sr. and I to let parents know that, "You are not alone." Unfortunately, there is an increased percentage of near drowner's in the United States since year 2000. Out of respect for the physicians who you will encounter, know that they are knowledgeable in their respective medical field; but it is a medical PRACTICE. They will do all they can medically, and that is it. As Corey and I stood by our eighteen month old son's (CJ) bedside, we listened as the Doctor told us, "Your son will be in a vegetative state for the rest of his life, he cannot hear, he cannot see, and he will probably not live to age 20. My heart sank, I felt lightheaded, and just wanted to faint. I could not believe this was happening to us. I began to pray for this nightmare to end. And just at that very moment, I realized this was not a nightmare, it was our new reality. The Doctor continued by telling us, "You can withdraw support and let him go peacefully."

FAITH is a subjective word based on each person's belief. Some people may believe that faith entails letting their child go and be with GOD. However, my perception of faith is to allow God to work his miracle(s), and let our son CJ be a testimony. For those parent with other children, talk to your children as soon as practical, if you can. Our daughter and son (Kaelin and Maurice) cried for days, and kept wondering why CJ won't respond, but it does get better. Share with your children as much information as possible based upon their ages and/or levels of understanding. If necessary, seek additional assistance from family members, friends, or professional counselors to ensure the other childrens' needs are being met.

INSURANCE - Our experience with our medical insurance carrier has not been the greatest. We did not become aware of the many resources available to us until well after our son was discharged from the hospital. Unfortunately, much for the information came from sources other than our insurance carrier or medical provider. DON'T be afraid to ask questions or seek a second opinion. Take copious notes, start a daily journal, read up on the subject matter, surf the internet, and network with other families who may be in similar situations.

One of the resources we came across during our research, which we would highly recommend to other families, is the Website: www.hugsfoundation.org . A great number of families who have kids that are victims of near drowning incidents are affiliated with this organization. Within a short span of time, we have established a great relationship with a family whose circumstances are incredibly similar to ours. Through e-mails, visiting their Website, and phone and in-person conversations, we have a growing bond that encourages us and gives us hope to carry on.

Remember, there is no such thing as too much information or too much knowledge. Your children are dependent on you to carry the banner and do everything in your power to protect and take care of them.

May God bless you all.