Rowan had a very peaceful night. He woke briefly this morning. He was very hazy and tired, but was clearly happy to see all of us. He has been peacefully sleeping since. It seemed like yesterday evening, he stopped showing any signs of pain or struggling, and is now just resting. We are with him.
We were absolutely touched by all of the pictures of candles. I have saved them all so that we will remember what a brilliant light Rowan has brought to this world.
At about 11:30 last night, I had this amazing since of comfort, as if Rowan was letting us know that he was at peace now. We’d all said our goodbyes, and he was ready.
Rowan has a strong little heart. The hospice nurse yesterday said that she didn’t think he would pass last night (though no guarantee) because his heart was still pretty strong.
We understand that many of you are anxious for news. Rest assured that we will let you know when there is news to share. Please refrain from…well for lack of a better way to put it “is he dead yet?” texts. Also, many of you have posted about Rowan on Facebook, which is sweet and thoughtful and wonderful. Please correct those who believe him to be dead. It is very disheartening for us to see so many people talking about him as if he is no more when he is still here. Rowan’s journey will end when he is good and ready. He is running the show. We’ll let you know when he closes the curtain.
On one hand my heart breaks for you but on the other hand I am absolutely amazed at your whole families courage and strength! I will prayer for all of you! I hope he continues to be calm and peaceful and I hope that you all can feel the love and the light long after the candles stop burning! God Bless y'all
ReplyDeleteI do not know your family, but my heart breaks for you. My family lost my sister years ago - and i know the support you're needing right now. Please know that you can lean on strangers, family, and friends to get you through this time. But also, live each day to the fullest. It will help remembering the happy days and the days that you were family of four. Your daughter will have those amazing memories of driving her little brother in the living room. I applaud you pushing through this and making those memories. My heart and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless.
ReplyDeleteYou and Rowan, along with your entire family, are an inspiration. Each child is such a blessing and gift -- may you cherish each day you are given with Rowan. God bless!
ReplyDeleteMuch love. Every minute is a precious gift. Our candle still burns for Rowan.
ReplyDeleteRowan's candle continues to burn brightly as his heart continues to beat. All of your family is being held in the hearts of so many and we are sending you love and peace.
ReplyDeleteAs part of Oakes' vortex of love, we have lit a candle for your family. Blessings of peace for all of you, and as I continue to thank the Ortyl family for sharing their story and lessons with us, I also thank you. Your families are powerful because of those super stong boys!
ReplyDeleteYou have so eloquently shared your precious family's life with us since the birth of Rowen. Rowen and Evelyn are beautiful gifts from God! I pray daily that you lean on God for his loving comfort and peace as his arms surround you all through this heart wrenching time.
ReplyDeleteGod Bless, j
The strength and love your family shows each day is an inspiration to me. My heart breaks for you. You will be in my prayers and please know that there will be a candle burning in Alabama this evening for sweet Rowan.
ReplyDeleteCandle still burning at our house <3
ReplyDeletePrecious Rowan is beautiful. His light will shine forever. I'm a non-believer, but even I said a prayer for gorgeous Rowan.
ReplyDeleteI don't know you personally, however I saw your an article on Baby Center and I wanted to touch base with you and let you know our strength and love is sooooo strong.... Many prayers sending your way for baby Rowan!!! I will light a candle for your son.
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DeleteI'm a mama on the BC Dec 2011 board. Our candle is lit and we send all our love and peace.
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DeleteJust read about your story and your sweet little boy today. I have been earnestly praying for Rowan and your family all day. God bless you.
ReplyDeleteI just read about your story today and am sending all my thoughts and prayers to your family. Hugs to Rowan and your family!
ReplyDeleteYou continue to amaze me with your strength and heartfelt words. I'm learning so much from you and your family. My prayer for you is to find strength, comfort, and peace through this process. Continuing in my heart.
ReplyDeleteStill praying
ReplyDeleteRowan is still on my mind 24/7. Your family is so strong. Peace to you all.
ReplyDeleteA candle is lit in our home as well. I heard about your story from the Dec birth board on Babycenter. There are many people praying for you all. God Bless, your strength is amazing.
ReplyDeleteWe were in room 11 in the CICU at SLCH last year. I'm praying for you all. Rowan is a cutie and certainly a fighter.
ReplyDeleteOur candle is still lit and is keeping our livingroom bright tonight. Our prayers are with all of you. You are an amazing family.
ReplyDeleteJill
We have had a candle burning all day
ReplyDeleteMuch love,
Gina and Parker Ritchie