For Albert And Family.

[Spem in alium]

(My lecturer Peter's four-month-old baby, who's been very ill since birth).

 

He had heart surgery the other week, and while it's been successful he appears to have a problem with his lungs which was likely masked by his heart defects. He also has some liver issues, but the biggest problem the family is facing is that Albert is not responding to any interaction from his mother or even from the medical staff when they run tests on him. This is very concerning, particularly as specialists are running tests to determine Albert's abilities (as he also has Down's). 

 

Here is the end of Peter's latest update:

 

The doctors have indicated that Albert is likely to be in recovery for at least a matter of weeks, if not more. They say it is possible that we will be able to take Albert home while he is still needing medical support. They say it is possible, even likely that we will need to purchase some kind of machine to assist his breathing and for whatever other ongoing medical needs he has. But, even they admit, all this is all speculation.
The fact is we do not know. We do not even know what is wrong with his lungs and liver today, let alone what assistance he may need next week, next month or next year. We just don't know. To be honest, I would take it all on the chin, if I could be sure I could share a smile, and a hug, with my boy.
Looking at my boy's tiny body, I cannot help remembering the words of St Paul when he refers to our mortal existence thus: "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us."

 

Please pray for Albert, his parents and siblings, and also those treating him.