Happy Birthday Jordan

One year ago today, as I sat at work, I received a call from Heidi telling me it was "time" for the baby to come.  For the first time in 5 children, we had been into the hospital on several false alarms and released, so neither Heidi nor I were certain this one was it.  However, several days past her due date and with anticipation growing, we were hopeful.  My staff at work noticed a familiar routine and as I walked out of my office to leave, they stood up and cheered loudly.  Apparently they knew something about this trip to the hospital that I didn't.

A few hours later, just before 8pm, Jordan Paul Janeway was born into the world.  He arrived blue and lifeless as every baby does, but after a few increasingly tense moments without a change, it was clear Jordan's entry was not routine.  In a blur, a team of nurses came rushing into the room (an experience we would become all too familiar with in the months ahead) and a cry of "code blue" roared across the hospital intercom.  

Moments later, a smiling nurse turned to hand the now-breathing Jordan into his mother's outstretched arms. Heidi held him close, breathed a sigh of relief, and wiped away her anxious tears.  Jordan was now safe and all appeared well.

That night, Jordan was unable to eat and appeared to have some issues breathing, as well as difficulty closing his right eye.  The nurses told Heidi they would take him and monitor him to let her sleep.  Thus began a life-changing journey of discovery and growth for Jordan, and all those who would come to know and love him. 

One year later, as Heidi and I consider this experience of being parents to this sweet young child, and watch the videos we have of his time with us (another tender mercy of the Lord), we want to wish our son a special Happy Birthday.  He may not be here with us now in person, but he will never leave our family.  We miss and love you Jordan and look forward to a reunion with you again, in the glorious light of Heaven above.