The Schnepper's

2009-07-30T19:04:00.000-07:00

Organ Donation - The Possibilities

My Baby Girl

Young Love in STL

2009-03-05T17:52:00.001-08:00

Macie and Nel - the hospital dalmation
Proud of her Super-Man sticker

Macie and Luke together again - we just love this little guy!

xxxxxxxxxx Kisses xxxxxxxxxx

Prayer request for Adah

2009-02-18T06:08:00.000-08:00

Macie's new heart friend Adah will be going in for her heart transplant this morning. Please keep Adah and her family in your prayers. Then next few days will be trying days. Our God in an amazing God and is with them. Adah's family is asking for prayers for her donor family as well.

Adah has made it through the transplant. The transplant went very well, the next 24-48 hrs are critical. The doctors and her surgeon have a good outlook. Thank you for uplifting Adah and her family during this time.

Posting from Adah's familys page -
Specific Prayer Requests
Two Very Important Things:Adah’s temperature is spiking! We need it to go down and stay down immediately. They don’t know the cause of why it’s going up yet. It needs to go down NOW!Secondly, her right ventricle still hasn’t played very nice with the transplant. This may be the cause of the temperature spike. Regardless, the pressures need to stabilize for the doctors to feel comfortable to move forward with anything else.
For those of you who’ve had a loved one in the hospital, you understand that it’s difficult to watch all of the monitors and see the ‘numbers’ go up and down. It’s been very stressful the last few hours, and it’s going to be a challenging night. I think tonight will be the most difficult night.
Thank you for your continued prayers and encouragement.

2/29 - Afternoon - from Adah's page

She's doing great! The doctors said that her "numbers are perfect" and that they wished all transplants happened like Adah's! That's a praise to our Heavenly Father!
We're still not out of the woods, but we're at least heading in the right direction! Thank you Jesus!

Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-14T17:40:00.001-08:00

Pizza and a new dress

Daddy's Birthday

2009-02-09T08:11:00.000-08:00

Elmo Cupcakes

Elmo Cake

Elmo panties on her head

Macie and Alex together at last

For Mike's birthday Macie and I made Elmo Cupcakes and a Cake. The things we do for our little ones. Needless to say Macie LOVED them! Macie even got a new outfit and barney movie for Mike's birthday? Daddy was happy to share his day.

Macie has been doing very well. I think her energy is back plus! We will go back to STL for some labs next week.

Coles County Heart Walk

2009-01-24T08:17:00.000-08:00

Coles County Heart Walk

The Coles County Heart Walk is set for Sunday February 1st at the Cross County Mall in Mattoon at 1pm. Macie will be featured as the child survivor. The Heart Walk raises funds for heart disease awareness and research. We will be teaming up Consolidated Communications to walk and to raise funds. Anyone interested in donating can contact us via e-mail (mschnepper2003@yahoo.com) phone (217)925-5753 or at the walk.

We would love to see you there!

Michael, Michelle & Macie

2009-01-08T16:27:00.000-08:00

We need tips on getting our 2year-old to keep her mask on!
Breakfast at the hospital.
Macie loved picking out her own Breakfast.

We needed a driver, who better than Macie.

Macie's new heart BFF, Adah.

Home Sweet Home

2009-01-01T18:36:00.000-08:00

Macie Playing in the Child Life Center, She LOVED it!

She would wake-up in the middle of the night asking to go play!

Macie LOVED these cars so much the volunteers gave her a brand new pack to bring home.
She wanted all the orange and blue cars, our little Illini girl.

Napping with her baby

Dr Schnepper

Lunch with a view

Macie just getting in her room. Snacking with daddy.

At home reading the Night Before Christmas with daddy on Christmas Eve

Sneaking Santa's Cookies

Christmas in STL

2008-12-25T21:02:00.000-08:00

Macie was admitted to the hospital today. You can log onto her caringbridge site for updates www.caringbridge.org/visit/maciefayschnepper

Bacterial Pneumonia

2008-12-22T18:17:00.000-08:00

Macie continued with a fever over the weekend. She spent just about all day yesterday in our arms with no energy. When her temp would get over 100 she would break out in a rash. We took her in to our local pediatrician who looked her over and then sent us over to the hospital for a chest x-ray ........... the results Bacterial Pneumonia. After Macie's doctor here talked with the transplant team in STL they all decided she can stay at home on an antibiotic. We are blessed to have such a great team caring for Macie.

Macie started feeling better late afternoon. She ate well and spent the rest of the evening dancing, playing with ELMO, and tossing snow balls (socks) at me. It was so good to see her smile and play!

Macie will need to stay in over the holiday. So we will be missing all the family get togethers. I would LOVE to have her all dressed-up in her Christmas outfit complete with matching bracelet celebrating. But, we will stay home and read the Christmas Story and The Night Before Christmas in our PJ's. We are just thankful to be able spend Christmas together, at home.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas

2008-12-18T12:47:00.001-08:00

It's day 13 of Macie running a temp. She is doing well, eating and drinking, resting in my arms. We have been talking to her pediatrician here and the transplant doctors in SLT over the past week in a half. She had labs taken last week, there all back and look as if she just has a virus she having trouble kicking. Yesterday she went about 14 hours without a temp then spiked one in the afternoon breaking out in a rash. Overnight she spiked again. Today we thought she had kicked it and then spiked again. Hopefully she is on the tail end of this virus. If she continues with a temp over the weekend STL wants to see her on Tuesday. Please send up an extra prayer for Macie, please pray this virus passes.

Macie's babies have all been sick too. We have to give them medicine and take their temps. And Oh My, the diapers the babies have been having. Good thing for mom and dad Macie is potty trained! Our girly, girl.

Macie and I had 3 snow days this week. Daddy is a little jealous. Macie keeps asking to go to school and for her "Heder" (Heather) and "Alex", her sitter. So now were off until after Christmas. She has been filling her days up with books, puzzles, Elmo and getting her nails done.

Our beauty queen continues to have a love of fashion. The trouble is the looks are her own creation. She LOVES orange, zippers, pockets and jeans? She will wake-up in the middle of the night, usually around 4am asking for a specific fashion piece (heart sweater, orange shirt, etc). This has been happening twice a week for some time now.

We hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas.

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-30T07:08:00.001-08:00

Cracking-Up With Grandma
John Deere Time With Grandpa

Christmas ELF

Six of the eleven great-grandkids

We had a great Thanksgiving weekend. We spent Thanksgiving day with Macie's Grandma Vaughn (Mike's mom) side of the family.

We hung Christmas lights.

On Sunday Grandma and Grandpa Hawkins (my parents) brought pizza and hung out.

Little Blue Diamonds

2008-11-23T17:50:00.000-08:00

Macie and I were moving some books around this weekend and found this poem. I have been looking for this poem since Macie came home after transplant. I must have tucked it away in one of her books.

Little blue diamonds, Heaven sent to me,

Fairest as can be and so wonderful to see,

Though they are only little Macie's eyes,

They are beacons on this road to paradise,

God gave me Heaven's greatest treasure,

When He gave me this pleasure of,

Little blue diamonds of mine.

~Lullaby sang to Donna Avers by her mom long ago

When Macie went into Cardiac Arrest for the second time she was impatient on the floor. She was immediately sent to the PICU. She needed labs ran stat. No one could get access. After getting poked many times, I lost it and told them to get someone else in there, NOW! God sent us Donna Avers. Donna sang this song to Macie and got the needed labs. She often checked in on Macie. I would like to run into her during one of Macie's scheduled appointments. Donna was at Children's for the first heart transplant and shared inspirational stories of hope with Mike and I.

2009 Heart Walk

2008-11-20T06:10:00.000-08:00

Michelle Schnepper and her daughter, Macie, at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2008. (Journal Gazette/ Times-Courier, Kevin Kilhoffer)

Macie Schnepper was 3 months old when she went into cardiac arrest. Denny Throneburg was 54 years old when he had quadruple bypass. Throneburg and Michelle Schnepper, Macie’s mother, were featured speakers Wednesday morning at the kickoff breakfast for the 2009 Start! Coles County Heartwalk.The annual Heartwalk to raise funds for heart disease awareness and research will be held Feb. 1 at Cross County Mall.

Team captains and volunteers met Wednesday at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center to launch their efforts. Amanda Buckler, corporate events director for the American Heart Association’s Midwest affiliate, said one in three people will be affected by heart disease. “Almost everyone you talk to has a story,” she said. “They know either a family member or a friend, but they’ve been affected in some way.”

Throneburg, Lake Land College’s athletic director and softball coach, certainly didn’t think he would have heart disease. He had been an athlete in high school and college, coached sports for many years, does not smoke, isn’t overweight and works out.“There was no indication that I had a heart problem,” he said. “I was a good example of a person who shouldn’t have heart problems.” Thinking he had some acid reflux, Throneburg saw his physician who sent him to the hospital for tests. “He said you’re lucky to be alive,” Throneburg said of the physician. Two of Throneburg’s arteries were completely blocked; two others were 80 percent blocked. “I went from thinking I’m perfectly healthy to quadruple bypass,” Throneburg. He has since participated in and “graduated” from the METS exercise program at Sarah Bush Lincoln, adopted a more healthy diet and has “learned to appreciate things more.” “The motto of my story is: Get yourself checked out,” he said.

Macie Schnepper was born 2 months premature with an inflammation of the heart in May 2006, according to her mom, Michelle. Macie seemed healthy but at 8 weeks had some difficulty breathing. At 3 months, she went into cardiac arrest. “Our only option was a heart transplant,” Mrs. Schnepper said. “We were in and out of the hospital for the next month. Thirty-five days later, a heart donor became available.” On Oct. 5, 2006, Macie underwent a heart transplant. “It was very scary,” Mrs. Schnepper said. “My husband (Mike) and I are organ donors but we never thought (transplants) would include a child. While we were thankful for the heart for Macie we grieved for the donor family as well.” The new heart was a perfect match, the mother said. Mrs. Schnepper said an infant’s heart is the size of an almond but Macie’s heart was about three times the normal size. The Schneppers, who live in Dieterich, plan to participate in the Feb. 1 Heartwalk event.

Why a walk to focus attention on heart disease? Beckler said studies have shown that walking has the lowest rate of dropouts from various forms of exercise.“It’s inexpensive and you don’t have to have a partner,” she said. “It’s the easiest and cheapest form of exercise.”Beckler also said research indicates that for every hour of exercise a person gains two hours of life expectancy.Anyone wishing to enter a team or participate in the Heartwalk should call Sara East at SBLHC, 258-2571 or 348-2571.Contact Lair at blair@jg-tc.com or 238-6865.

Poem From A Heart Mommy

2008-11-10T18:39:00.000-08:00

Such is life with these little heart-babies.
It means falling asleep watching the digital line dancing up and down on her monitor indicating her heart is beating
It means second guessing every gurgle, hic-up and coo from the back-seat.
It means worrying that every bug or infection could turn into something life-threatening
It means constant acknowledgement that every breath is a gift from the Lord
It means having home, beeper and cell phone numbers for 5 doctors that you are on a first-name-basis with
It means choosing not to go to church, the mall, a party because of exposure to germs
It means thanking God for the privilege of each dirty diaper I get to change
It means standing over her crib praying for another day to love her
It means thanking the Lord each morning when she wakes and smiles that He has given her another day

Macie's Two Year Check-up In STL

2008-11-01T10:33:00.000-07:00

Playing a viedo game in X-ray with Luke Napping in the hotel between appiontments with daddy

Hanging out with Luke in labs

Macie had her two year post transplant check-up on Thursday. All labs, x-rays, the echo and EKG came back with good results. Dr Canter (Macie's Cardiologist) gave Mike and I great piece of mind when he told us his babies don't reject, "the rejection is ZERO with babies like Macie". He feels very confident in Macie! We met with an endocrine doctor, Dr Wagner to discuss growth hormone. Macie is still very tiny and has not caught-up to the charts (heart babies are often tiny). Macie is a candidate for growth hormone, but we will wait until she is 4yrs to re-evaluate. Mike and I were impressed with Dr Wagner, she seemed very connected to her patients. She feels we will see good growth with the hormone, when it is time.

Macie had a date with Luke, Wednesday evening. They were so cute together. We enjoyed our visit with Luke and his family. Luke had a good check-up too!

During Macie's Celebration Of Life Party earlier this month we collected over 80 blankets to take to the Cardiac Floor at Children's! During her check-up we took the blankets to the floor and Macie passed some out. She LOVED it! Especially when she got to see the babies. The families really appreciated the blankets. It was hard at first going back up to the cardiac floor where Macie spent so much time. Mike and I were grateful to be able to share some of Macie's story and give inspiration to other families. There are so many children in the CICU and on the floor who need prayers.

We had to sneak in a shopping trip while in STL. Our Macie LOVES to shop. We went to STL Mills. Macie and I left dad in Cabals and we took off. Needless to say she ended up with a few new things.

Thank you for keeping Macie in your prayers. We are blessed with each day.

Prayer Request

2008-10-27T19:14:00.000-07:00

Please keep baby Blake and his family in your prayers. They were given some difficult news and need lifted in prayer. You can log on to his site at www.caringbridge.org/visit/blakedurdel

What to be for Halloween?

2008-10-24T11:23:00.000-07:00

Super Girl?

Super Man?

Ladbug?

A girl needs options!

Pictures from the week

2008-10-19T10:54:00.001-07:00

Macie has been working on the potty training thing. So far pretty good!

Beautiful Ladybug

Music class, she loves it!

Daddy is trying with every attempt to have a hunting buddy. Turns out Macie is more of a shopping buddy, suprise. Where does she get it from?

Last weekend we had outdoor pictures of Macie taken. I can't wait to get them back!

2008-10-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

I'm not a big political fan, yes I vote and do my research, but I don't really get to deeply involved. This post is not to stir up a debate. However we set up this blog to promote the importance of organ and tissue donation. After the debated this week we are HOT. Please read McCain quote bellow:

Exact quote from Presidential Debate 15 Oct. as made by John McCain:

"That' s big government at its best. Now, 95 percent of the people in America will receive more money under my plan because they will receive not only their present benefits, which may be taxed, which will be taxed, but then you add $5,000 onto it, except for those people who have the gold-plated Cadillac insurance policies that have to do with cosmetic surgery and transplants and all of those kinds of things.

So here in the transplant world we are all asking ourselves what McCain meant to say. Was it to say his plan does not support transplants? Belonging to a couple transplant support groups I have read these views. We are all a little HOT!

Gold-plated Cadillac insurance policies, where do we get one of these. Does McCain have any idea how many hours and beyond families spend on the phone with insurance companies? I can only speak for myself, MANY and on the things our daughter needed (not just wants). The state of Illinois rejected our "All Kids" application on our daughter (we wanted to pay the monthly premium and be guaranteed coverage). We were told we were responsible for her insurance until she caps out, yes we are over half way there. The state may provide insurance after that, but they have 3mo to pick her up, leaving us to pick-up the rest. Scary. I was even told if I was a single mom I would qualify? I don't think that's Gods plan.

We are very thankful we have insurance, and have a good plan. Knowing one day it will run out really makes you think. We really do have a million dollar and beyond girl.

As far as my view goes, transplants are not and elected procedure. It's life or death as painful as it is to type the words. We were told our daughters only chance at life was a heart transplant. Does that sound like an elected procedure to you? She has quality of life and has life! A life we are full and blessed with.

Mike asked Macie who she was voting for, she said ELMO. We love Elmo these days.

Anyways this will be our only political post. We want this site to be positive. Showing life after a heart transplant, beautiful.

Pumpkin Time

2008-10-12T18:21:00.000-07:00

Carving the pumpkins

Now which one should I choose?
This is some sort of mum/chicken dance

Two Years Later................

2008-10-06T11:36:00.000-07:00

WOW .... so far we have collected 72 blankets to take to the CICU at St. Louis Children's hospital during Macie's October appointment!

Grandma/pa Hawkins and Michael and I got Macie this new vanity for her second heart birthday! Macie loves it, she is such a girly girl! Grandma Vaughn brought her some new outfits, I'll post pictures soon.

Macie released balloon in memory of her donor, Destiny.

Having an afternoon snack on Destiny's memorial bench. Don't you wonder what she is thinking?

It's been two years since Macie received her Gift of Life. Michael and I are truly blessed. Looking back from now its hard to believe all our princess has been through. Saturday evening we had a Celebration of Life party at our home with family and friends.
We encourage everyone reading this blog to become an organ donor if you are not already. Two years ago Michael and I were told a heart transplant would be the only chance at life for our beautiful baby girl. Two years later we have our happy, healthy, thriving Macie. Please share Macie's story to encourage others to donate life.
Not a day goes by we don't give thanks to God for giving us his beautiful Macie. And to Macie's donor family we give thanks for your brave decision. At such a trying time you gave our daughter the Gift of Life. Destiny we feel your beautiful heart beat each night as we pray for your family. Your a shining angel.

Macie LOVED the Jumping House! We put it up Friday night and Saturday morning first thing she said was "IwannaJumpJump" and began jumping in the bed.

I think grandma Hawkins liked it just as much as Macie.

Macie with her cousin Dara

Mike with his sister Emily, nephew Quentin and niece Bella. Quentin got to spend the night. It was nice to spend some extra time with him.

Macie and her favorite neighborhood friend Anna. She loves this girl!

We posted a new poem at the bottom of the blog page.

Sunday Celebration

2008-09-28T17:31:00.000-07:00

We had a great day today. We took Macie to church and had a light breakfast with everyone afterwards. We shared a slide show of "Macie" with the congregation, I will try to figure out how to post it. We are so blessed to have our miracle Macie. Next Sunday Macie will be two years out from receiving her Gift of Life. Michael and I are so grateful to Macie's donor family. As this is a time of celebration for us, they are morning the loss of their beautiful Destiny. Please keep Destiny's family in your prayers.

We are having a blanket drive for St. Louis Children's Hospital PCICU. We will take the blankets to the hospital during Macie's October appointment (end of Oct.). We already have several, any size and theme, new or handmade. These blankets will be passed out to cardiac (heart) children ages birth to 18 years of age. Please let us know if you would like to contribute.

Please keep baby Blake and baby Gracie in your prayers.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/blakedurdel
www.caringbridge.org/visit/graciejeanlockyer

God didn't promise days without pain, Laughter without sorrow, Sun without rain, But he did promise strength for the day, Comfort for the tears, And a light for the way. ~Author Unknown

Prayer Request

2008-09-22T06:11:00.000-07:00

A co-worker of mine has a little boy, Blake who was airlifted to St. John's in Springfield last week. Blake was moved out of PICU yesterday and is still awaiting testing. You can visit his site at www.caringbridge.org/visit/blakedurdel
Please keep Blake and his family in your prayers.

The Day I Became A Heart Mother

2008-09-13T18:32:00.000-07:00

The Day I Became A Heart Mother
One day my world came crashing down,
I'll never be the same.
They told me that my baby was sick.
I thought, "Am I to blame"?
I don't think I can handle this.
I am really not that strong.
It seemed my heart was breaking.
I have loved him for so long.
I will not give up on this child.
I will listen to your advice.
I will give my son any chance.
No matter what the price.
I will learn all that I need
To help my baby thrive.
I'll even use that feeding tube.
My child must survive!
Will he need a lot of therapy?
Will he gain the needed weight?
Please God, help me do this.
As I accept our fate.
When the monitors beep at night,
it serves as my reminder.
How many parents would love that sound.
Tomorrow I will be kinder.
As another Angel earns his wings,
I run to my baby's bed.
I watch him sleep for quite a while.
I bend down and kiss his head.
I cry for the parents whose hearts have been broken.
I look to
You wondering why?
Oh Lord,
I just can't know your ways....
no matter how I try.
And yet,
I trust you hold his life,
and guide us through each day.
My mind says savor each moment he's here,
but my heart begs,
"PLEASE let him stay"!
From pacing the surgical waiting room,
to sitting by his bed.
From wishing for a good nights sleep,
to learning every med.
From wondering,
"Will he be alright?",
to watching him reach out his hands.
With every smile my heart just melts,
despite life's harsh demands.
For all who see that faded line.
I look to them and smile.
You see my child is loved so much.
I would face ANY trial.
That scar I trace with my finger
(It's the door to his beautiful heart).
God must have known how much I'd love him
(Just as He loved him from the start).
A heart mom is always a heart mom.
Now wise beyond her years.
For those who have angels in heaven,
Our hearts share in all of your tears.
Every day I will try and remember,
I was chosen for him (and no other).
I will always embrace that beautiful day.......
When I became a
"Heart Mother".

~Stephanie Husted
Mommy to Braeden HLHS post Fontan
Carepage name: babyhusted

Prayer Request

2008-09-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

Please take a few moments and read about little Gracie Jean. I became addicted to their blog while doing some research this summer. The family whitnessed an amazing miracle yesterday. Gracie Jean is still very sick and needs many prayers. Please check out their blog @ www.caringbridge.org/visit/graciejeanlockyer

BIG NEWS For Heart Transplant Patients!

2008-09-08T08:55:00.000-07:00

Last week the FDA approved the AlloMap! The AlloMap is a non-invasive test that uses molecular expression techniques to assist doctors in managing heart transplant patients post-surgery for potential organ rejection. In our words this test could mean that Macie would only need a lab draw to check for rejection in place of the now every other year biopsy! We will be speaking to Macie's cardiologist Dr Canter in October to see his take on this. Macie's next scheduled biopsy isn't until October of 2009, so we pray by then the AlloMap is a safe option for Macie and her transplant friends.

More news............... We are now cheering on the Chicago Bears this football season. We are still cheering on the Colts! Chicago Bears cornerback Charles Tillman's daughter is also a heart transplant recipient. Like Macie she was born with cardiomyopathy. Tillman's daughters name is Tania - the same as Macie's donor mom. Baby Tania was released home last week our prayers are with her and her family.

Macie started Playgroups last week, she LOVES it and rules the room! I'll post pictures soon.

60 Years Of Wedded Bliss

2008-08-23T19:44:00.000-07:00

My Grandparents David and Esther Hawkins celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this month. We celebrated with a small gathering at a bed and breakfast in Casey. The food was delicious and the scenery was beautiful.

Grandma and Grandpa with the boys Albert (my father), Max and David

I love this picture!

Back To Playgroup Shopping!

2008-08-16T20:09:00.000-07:00

She loves this shirt. Suckers are her favorite! She has worn this to bed, over a swim suit, and with a camo skirt.
This might be a close to deer hunting as she is going to get, sorry daddy.
Butterflies

Please don't make me try on anymore, please.

Wow where did the summer go? School started back this past week, so it was back to work for mommy. Macie did AWESOME starting back at the sitters, yes better than mommy. We have such a great sitter for Macie she really makes the transition easy for us.

Last weekend Macie and I went shopping with Grandma Hawkins for a final summer girls day. Needless to say Macie got spoiled. I picked up a few things too. When we got home we played dress-up, as I tried on my new tops Macie was VERY opinionated. If she liked it she would smile and say "iket" (I like it), if she didn't like it she said "yucky mommy, yucky". I know I'm getting paybacks, but seriously at two years old?

Dramatic Play / Dramatic Macie

2008-08-03T18:31:00.000-07:00

Macie has been baby crazy lately. I got out her preemie clothes to play "dress-up" with, I was shocked when they fit the babies. My grandfather David Hawkins made the cradle when I was little. My grandfather is a very gifted wood worker. Macie is always feeding her babies and giving them their "poo, poo's" (pacifier). She changes their diapers and has to take them with her to the big girl potty. We started using cloth diapers on Macie last winter so when I gave her the disposable diapers I bought for the babies she looked at me like I was crazy. She went and got the cloth ones for the babies. Only the best!

The pictures below are of Macie wearing some of the preemie clothes.

My mom made the Cabbage Patch baby sitting on the floor

September 2006 - at home before transplant

July 2006 - at home

June 2006 - St Anthony Memorial Hospital

This is the outfit we brought her home in.

This was my favorite preemie outfit

Sent by her Great Aunt and Uncle

October 2006 - Right after transplant

Please check out Macie's story of Hope at www.colbyfoundation.org The Colby foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness regarding organ and tissue donation. Mike and I are really excited to be working with the foundation. Macie's life was saved when her donor mother made the decision to give the gift of life. We are forever grateful for Destiny's gift.

Great-Grandpa Hammond

2008-07-27T19:07:00.000-07:00

This visit was a long time coming. Macie met her Great-Grandfather Riley for the first time today! My grandfather (my moms father) is in a nursing home, since we will always have to be careful of what germs Macie is exposed to, this visit had been put on hold. The week before I delivered Macie was the last time I had seen my grandfather. We picked up Dairy Queen ice cream and set outside for our visit. It was a great day!

She loves her frozen treats!

I love how Macie is looking at grandpa and he has a big smile

The family, Macie's Great-Grandma (Marge) & pa (Riley) Hammond,
Macie and grandma (Colleen) & Mommy

Kindermusik

2008-07-24T13:23:00.001-07:00

These are some pictures of Macie from her Kindermusik Class this summer she had a great time. She was in the Zoo Train class where she learned about the different zoo animals through music while ridding on the Allee-O (train).

Macie's Lab Results

2008-07-22T16:44:00.000-07:00

Macie's labs are in and everything continues to check out GOOD! All of her levels are in the normal range. Finally! Normalcy!

She has pick-up a little cold. She has a cough and a runny nose. She was up most the night last night coughing, poor little thing. She is already asleep (it's 6:30pm), Mike is working late tonight, so I think I'm going to climb in bed with Macie and watch a movie.

Our Summer STL Trip

2008-07-21T16:58:00.000-07:00

It was time for Macie's 3month labs, so we took a little vacation to STL. We stopped on our way to see our friend Alicia, she was ALWAYS good about coming to the hospital and visiting with us and bring us whatever we asked for, thank you! On our way we stopped by the toy store and yes we did spoil Macie just a little! She LOVED the pool at the hotel, I think it was her favorite part of the whole trip, OK I know it was. We visited Grant's Farm where she meet Bryon VonRosenberg the author of I Don't Want To Kiss A Llama! He read her the story and signed her book!

We had a great relaxing weekend, as relaxing as it gets with a two year old!

Today during Macie's labs we meet another sweet baby named Macey. She just had her heart transplant 2 weeks ago at 7 weeks old, please keep her family in your prayers. Macie's labs should be back in the morning.

How do you keep a princess HAPPY in the car for 2 hours..............

Give her 2 suckers!

Her new pot and pan set.

Daddy taught her how to bang them.............

Thank you Daddy!

WHAT popcorn in bed, does mommy know about this?

Yet another pool shot, this girl is a FISH.

She made several new friends in the pool.

On the train at Grants Farm......

"Please take me back to the pool, it's sooooo HOT!"

We put Macie behind bars to enjoy a cold afternoon drink at Grant's Farm.

Mommy found a new summer favorite....... Michelob Ultra Pomegranate Raspberry

Looking at the donkeys at Grant's Farm

If the suckers don't work give her a frozen treat!

We came home and went swimming again!

Swimming

2008-07-13T09:22:00.000-07:00

Summer 2006 - Macie 1mo

Summer 2007 - Macie 1yr

Summer 2008 - Macie 2yrs

Macie LOVES the water. Every morning and I do mean EVERY morning before she gets out of bed she ask for her swimsuit! Maybe next summer we can talk daddy into a big pool! He caves big time when it comes to his princess.

July 4th Pictures

2008-07-08T10:06:00.001-07:00

We spent the weekend grilling out with family. Macie just loves to be outside.

Suckers are now and outdoor treat! This girl LOVES suckers!

Nick's Race

2008-06-21T09:57:00.001-07:00

Macie's Friend Abby Update

2008-06-19T12:28:00.000-07:00

I sent out a prayer request last night for Macie's friend Abby (lung transplant 2006). Abby was admitted to the hospital after scheduled testing due to her oxygen saturation levels and vomiting. Her testing is back and there is no signs of rejection or infection (this is good news!). They are still trying to figure out her saturation levels and vomiting. Please keep Abby and her mom in your prayers. Her mother just sent out a picture of Abby with a BIG smile wrapped in a pink blanket with Nel (the hospital Dalmatian) in bed with her.

The picture attached is of Macie and Abby.

Happy Fathers Day!

2008-06-15T18:03:00.001-07:00

The Photo is of Michael and Macie's first Father's Day 6/2006

A man walks through the double doors.

His eyes tell quite a story.

Although he has grown weary

He still gives God the glory

His child lives within in these walls

As many other children do

Look high upon the sign, you'll see

That is says .... PICU

The nurses nod as he walks in

And sets down all his things

Although he knows what to expect

Somehow it always stings

He bends to kiss his sleeping child

His hands stroke soft hair

And everyday the nurses can hear

This fathers prayer

Lord please watch my child today

And let her know your here

Give her strength so she can fight

And calm her every fear

Wrap your arms around her

The way I wish I could

Remind her just how much she is loved

Remind her life is good

I feel so very helpless

Not sure what I can do

I cannot even comprehend

The things that she's been through

Give me strength to fight for her
And help me understand

Help me accept your perfect will

No matter what the plan

Lord, I know you'll answer me

And yes, I know you care

Thanks again for hearing

One father's heartfelt prayer

If someone stopped to ask him

Are things alright?

He'd feel no need to mention

He didn't sleep all night

If we were given just a glimpse

If you could see in part

What thoughts and hopes are here to find

Within this father's Heart?

A father speaks........

My child has a heart defect

It's "my job" to be strong

And tell my wife things will be fine

(And pray I not wrong)

And still the bills need to get paid

And things need to be done

And it's so hard just sitting here

"I want to hold my daughter"

I lean down as I watch her breathe

"Keep fighting is my plea"

I thought I'd teach you to be brave

But you have taught me

I hear the beeping of machines

(They help my child live)

I wish that I could take her place

(There's nothing I wouldn't give)

To have the faith and strength I need

To hold back all my tears

To say I know she'll be okay

Despite all my fears

I'll only loose composure

When no one's here to see

I will be the "strong" one

As I'm supposed to be

I cannot change God's plan for her

But I can hope and pray

A daddy needs to cry sometimes

And God Must see right through

That "tough daddy exterior"

For he's a daddy too.

~Stephanie Husted ( A heart transplant mom)

Happy 3rd Father's Day Mike! Your an amazing father.

And to our fathers Albert and John Thank you for being Dad.

Summer Fun

2008-06-15T10:34:00.001-07:00

Presley, Macie & Rolen

Macie with Pierce

Macie is a FISH she loves the water!

Nick's Race

2008-06-11T05:41:00.000-07:00

Memorial weekend we put this Noah's Ark bench out in memory Macie's donor Destiny. With each milestone we give praise for Destiny's gift.

This years Nick's race/walk is coming up on Saturday, June 21st at Sam Parr State Park, Newton, Illinois. Nick's Race strives to promote public awareness about the importance of discussing your feelings about organ and tissue donation with your family. Michael and I will be walking with Macie for the 2 mile walk. The walk begins at 8:40am anyone interested in walking with us please email mschnepper2003@yahoo.com or call us at 1(217)925-5753 for more information. We are also selling raffle tickets 1 for $5 or 5 for $20 all proceeds from the raffle go to Gift Of Hope to support organ and tissue donation. On race day anyone showing a signed donor card or donor designation on their driver's license will receive a free raffle ticket!

Our Miracle Turns 2!

2008-06-04T19:12:00.000-07:00

Macie with Mike's Sister Emily's kids, Quentin & Isabella

Macie with Michelle's brother Alan's kids Alanson & Dara

Blowing out her birthday candles

A sucker as BIG as her head

A tricycle just her size

Our baby girl just turned two. This past year has gone by so quickly. The three of us are having so much fun just being a "normal" family now.

We give thanks to Macie's donor family as they made this day and everyday possible. Their decision to donate life saved our daughter. Please keep them in your prayers.

Dress-up Time

2008-05-20T08:05:00.000-07:00

Whats a girl to do when her Daddy's away............... play dress-up with Mommy. Mike's away on a business trip for a few days. Macie and I were doing some much needed spring cleaning and found a box of Mommy's old clothes grandma had saved. So we grabbed the camara and started the fashion show. Mike and I have quite the dress-up queen!

Macie has been calling her daddy and telling him all kinds of stories. She loves to use her cell phone, lets hope she's 20 before she ask for a real one.

Early Birthday Party

2008-05-15T12:09:00.001-07:00

Thank You, Consolidated for the Birthday Cake. Macie had such a GREAT time! She was asleep before we left the parking lot. The picture above is of Aunt Twilla from Consolidated holding Macie.

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T11:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day everyone! We are spending the day at Macie's grandma&pa Hawkins. The picture above is of Macie at the neighbors Birthday party, She loved the jumping house!

Puppy Love

2008-05-04T05:13:00.000-07:00

Macie and I (mommy) had an overnight at grandma & grandpa Hawkins Saturday night. It was grandma's birthday! Daddy was turkey hunting and got skunked all weekend. Grandma got a new puppy Miley for her birthday. Between the 3 grandkids I think she needed a break (grandma & Miley)! We ordered dinner in and had several playdates through the day! I even took a mommies night out with a friend. We talked about the kids all night. I felt good to know she was safe sleeping at grandma & grandpa's. On Sunday we went to Macie's great-uncle Bret's church in Kansas. It was good to see and meet so many who have prayed for our miracle baby.

First Field Trip

2008-04-25T09:50:00.000-07:00

The picture is of Macie on her first Field Trip. On Wednesday she came along with my Beginning Steps class to a new Athletic Club in Charleston that offers mommy/daddy and me classes. She had a blast, after she got on the trampoline I couldn't keep her off of it. After the field trip we met with some of the Beginning Steps families in the park and had pizza for lunch. Another first for Macie. Needless to say she slept through the night that night.

*The web address we gave on our last post for donor registration was incorrect, it's updated now and you can register at www.lifegoeson.com .

Michael, Michelle & Macie Fay

April Check-up

2008-04-18T10:08:00.000-07:00

Macie just had one of her 6mo check-ups in St. Louis yesterday. All of the testing is back with good reports! Mike and I can hardily believe she is 18mo out from her lifesaving donation. Let alone that our little miracle is turning 2 next month!
Macie is doing so many amazing things now. She mastered walking in January, checked out of Early Intervention (EI) in February, took total control over the house in March! And is tube free in April (her feeding tube was removed yesterday)! She talks all the time, Mike and I were just wondering when our last conversation was?
April is organ donation month. So if your not registered yet (if registered before 1/2006 you MUST re-register) please go to http://www.lifegoeson.com/ to register or let us know and Mike and I can register you. Macie's donor mother Tania has been in contact with us and tells us that it brings her comfort to know her daughter Destiny saved Macie's life. Michael and I are grateful for Tania's beautiful decision to donate life.

Michael, Michelle & Macie Fay