It’s been quite a busy day. Amber continues to do well. PT with Lauren consisted of gym mat on the floor doing exercises. During Amber’s “rest time”, Lauren let me do snuggle time with Amber. Let me tell you, that meant THE world to me. The last time I got to “snuggle” Amber was in between her throwing up every hour 3 weeks ago. So snuggle time today meant more than you know. After exercises on the mat, Lauren was able to get Amber to do a tall kneeling (like when we pray) against the hospital bed. Amber was supported by Lauren but held herself up by herself too, Lauren seemed pretty amazed, as did I! After that was wheelchair time, where we took Amber for a tour of Floor 8.
Speech Therapy was next. While Amber was still in her chair, resting, Sara came in with a cup of chocolate ice cream. It did not seem promising at first as Amber was tightly pursing her lips together. After a bit of persuading, Amber took a small bite! After another small bite, and a few sips of water, Amber graduated to two big bites!
And lastly, OT time. Caitlin made good use of the floor mat as well. She had Amber sitting up against her and had me hold a stack of Legos. Amber took a block off the top! She did it again! Next I loosened a top Lego and Amber pushed it down twice. After that, Caitlin got Amber down on her side for a bit where it looked like she was about to conk off! Then, tummy time where Caitlin was helping Amber with her neck. Amber was starting to get uncomfortable, so it was back to her side and then back to sitting against Caitlin. Then Caitlin asked if we’d like to do snuggle time — Um, you don’t have to ask me twice!!
With Amber in my arms against me, Caitlin sets me up with my back against a pillow, and pillow against Amber’s hospital bed, so I could be more comfortable. With my baby girl laying against me again, I can’t help but feel like it’s been an eternity since she’s been in my arms like this. But we’re here in the now and I will cherish this day forever.
Amber's Way 
Day by day she is getting stronger! Great job Amber ! See you on Saturday!
My heart ♥ sings for you!
❤ We Love You
~The Devine Family
Matt and Caron, I do not have the words to adequately express my feelings. Just know that your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Caron, although we have not met I want you to know how much I admire and respect your husband. It has been truly a great pleasure working with and getting to know Matt over the past 2 years.
Matt, I know you know this — the words here demonstrate how strong, caring, and intelligent your wife is. Your family’s love for one another and incredible bond is evident.
My wish is that you continue to find hope and progress and that your faith and love carry you through this difficult ordeal.
Prayers for you all,
Mark Tonneson
Amber, you, you are getting stronger, little by little, one small miracle at a time! Keep up the good work. We miss you here at St. Joseph School, but you are in our hearts! Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
God bless you.
Sister Mary Patrick, SCMC
Caron it was so nice to see you today at drop off, even for the brief moments. It makes me so happy to read of Amber’s progression and the snuggle time your getting with her. Keep up the good work little work one!! Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you all❤️
💖💖💖💖 So flipping happy!!! Made me cry with such happiness. Love you all