We visited Ethan and his parents at USC Hospital today. Ethan was in the playroom for part of the time we saw them, and then we headed back to their room in the burn unit. Ethan had been given some heavy drugs to help get through the “deep cleaning” they did on his feet, and he was still a bit groggy. But he was happy to see Grandma and Grandpa, and we were very happy to see him. Liz and Ron looked tired. As is expected while staying in the hospital, nobody got a very good night’s sleep. Too much light and those early morning check-ins by the nurses make for a tough night. Still, they all seemed in fairly good spirits, given the circumstances. The bad news is those “deep cleanings” occur every day while Ethan is there, and Liz has already started to refer to the room where they are done as the “torture chamber.” That should give you some idea of how grueling those procedures are for Ethan.

Ethan’s main doctor is a plastic surgeon, which surprised everyone. He and the nurses have told Liz and Ron that babies tend to be strong, but they all seem surprised with just how strong Ethan is. Apparently, he’s a little tough guy.

While we were there, Auntie Sarah arrived with a big ice chest of food for Liz, Ron, and Ethan. Uncle Gregorio had packed a wide range of goodies, including Sarah’s delicious tortilla soup. After we left, Auntie Rachael and Andrew also arrived for a visit. Apparently, Ethan had conked out by that time, but I suspect Liz and Ron were happy to have a little company to help pass the hours in the hospital room.

Thank you all for your support as Ethan’s healing process unfolds. Your kind words, prayers, and well wishes bring comfort and caring. That goes a long way when a little, almost eighteen-month-old toddler is involved. Much appreciated!

Big hugs to you all.

Grandma, a groggy Ethan, and Liz

Ethan conked out during Auntie Rachael and Andrew’s visit