comment by Amanda Kilgore on 09/27/2007
Keep up that figting attitude, sweet Bennett! You continue to amaze us.
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comment by Sarah T on 09/26/2007
To think of all of the gear he has worn during his sweet little life, it is so good to know that he is now down to the CPAP. We thank God for his strong recovery. We still pray "just like new." We love you all. Sarah, Kevin and sons
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comment by Jill Kerby on 09/26/2007
How amazing!! God continues to amaze me through little Bennett! My mom uses a CPAP when she sleeps because she has sleep apnea, so I'm guessing it's the same type of machine. He's just one more step closer to doing it all on his own :)! Love you!
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comment by Erin Ross Harper on 09/26/2007
That is so wonderful! God is so great! I'm so happy for you three. I must say I am not surprised though. Bennett is a fighter and knew it was time. Andrew did the same thing in NICU. The day they were planning to exutbate him he yanked his tube out that morning. We found out much the same way. It was so exciting! We are so happy for you and little Bennett. You are in our prayers nightly.
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comment by Erin Ross Harper on 09/26/2007
That is so wonderful! God is so great! I'm so happy for you three. I must say I am not surprised though. Bennett is a fighter and knew it was time. Andrew did the same thing in NICU. The day they were planning to exutbate him he yanked his tube out that morning. We found out much the same way. It was so exciting! We are so happy for you and little Bennett. You are in our prayers nightly.
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comment by Elizabeth on 09/26/2007
So glad to know he has such a determined spirit! Too funny that he pulled the tube out himself and threw it on the floor...that's a story you'll be telling him when he's older. I'll be praying that he does well on the CPAP.
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comment by Mark & Chelsea on 09/26/2007
I'm so thankful for Bennett's FIESTY spirit!!! God equipped him with that and it will be amazing to watch him grow...what stories you have for him someday!
Praise GOD for the way He works!! It's just like Him to not only allow the tube to come out, but to have it laying on the floor for all to see. To Him be the glory, great things He has done!!
Our prayers continue for you three. :)
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comment by Katie Meeks on 09/26/2007
WAY TO GO BENNETT! I am clapping and dancing and Chloe is cracking up laughing screaming YAY BENNETT! The Meeks family rejoices with you and will continue to pray hard for the Great Physician to keep on a working! We are so proud of your first big boy decision Bennett to remove yourself from the vent! :)
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comment by Sandy Scott Qualls on 09/26/2007
My little 2nd graders were probably convinced that their teacher was on the brink of a mental breakdown this morning as I read your latest post and laughed, cried and cheered out loud "YEAH Bennett!" Yet once I explained why I was so happy, they, too joined in on the excitement. They are very aware of who Baby Bennett is and ask hourly if we can "go see Bennett on the computer" (it's proven to be a great way to "encourage" good behavior!)So today Mrs. Qualls' 2nd grade class had a little pep rally for Bennett and celebrated his latest success with an impromptu morning recess. We are so pleased to hear of his latest milestone. Love and prayers from Centerville, Tennessee!
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comment by Tom & Georgie Johnson on 09/26/2007
Keep the GREAT news coming!! Love the feisty little guy! Still praying and won’t stop!!
May He continue to bless and shine upon ALL of you!
Love you guys!
Tom & Georgie
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comment by Micki Turner on 09/26/2007
Oh Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens; From the lips of children and infants You have ordained praise!Psalm 8:1,2
So happy for this blessed day!
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comment by Pat on 09/26/2007
Bless little Bennett's heart!! I guess he just took charge and notified the world that he is ready to move on with meeting all his extended family, seeing UT play, etc.. God Bless him and all of you as you continue his journey to wellness and wholeness. So many in Michigan have, and are, earnestly praying for your precious angel boy and his loving parents. Thank you for sharing the updates and specific prayer requests. We appreciate your strength and faithfulness.
Sending love and prayers -
Garth and Pat
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comment by The Woody's on 09/26/2007
Praise God! We were all crying at our daily morning prayer session as Granna read the good news. What a wonderful day to start our day! We continue to pray that Bennett gets stronger and stronger!
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comment by Suzanne Bell on 09/26/2007
WAY TO GO BENNETT!!! I have something very special for you to replace that yucky old tube. I think your parents will approve. You should be getting it soon. I can't tell you what it is. It's a surprise! BUT, I'll give you a hint...it is orange and white ;).
We are one more day closer to getting to see you!!!
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comment by Randy and Carolyn on 09/26/2007
What great news!! It was a fantastic way to begin your evening visit with Bennett and kiss his cheeks with no adhesive attached. I've been gone all day and I can't believe I'm just getting to read the news and share in your joy!! Our prayers remain with you three. I'm praying this day has gone according to hopes and may that little voice "scream" out soon. Our Love
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comment by Kelly Fixmer on 09/26/2007
PRAISE JESUS!! This is FABULOUS NEWS!!!! We are all THRILLED, as I'm sure you are! We cannot imagine what you are going thru, but we will keep the prayers coming!! Love, The Fixmer Family in Oswego, IL (cousins of Christine Norton)
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comment by the bynums on 09/26/2007
Ya'll made my day. I have spent much of the week worrying about selling/renting our house, selling our junk and packing to move to the DR. It takes a little sweetie to show us what's important. Praise God from whom all blessing flow!
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comment by Murray on 09/26/2007
I'm laughing, I'm crying, I'm praising God. I can't tell you how much joy this report brings me, and how much closer to God I feel because of little Bennett. God is good, and NOTHING is too difficult for Him. Can't you just see the angel helping Bennett yank that tube out? DONE WITH THAT!
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comment by Andrea Morris on 09/26/2007
I guess there will be no question how Bennett is feeling about something! Enough is Enough!! he said!:-) Thank You Jesus!!!!!!! You are amazing in All of Your ways! Prayers will continue. Love and Blessings to you! Andrea
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comment by Kim on 09/26/2007
Now we are getting somewhere...
What a great posting, Brent and I were reading at the same time on different computers and we were laughing out loud! Our prayer is for more improvements daily and soon you guys can be outta there...
Love and prayers,
Kim and Brent
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comment by Ashley Nelson on 09/26/2007
WAY TO BE FIESTY, BENNETT! What a little cutie! We will pray that he continues to adjust well and do well. God continues to work miracles!
Cody, Ashley, and Carley
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comment by Tabitha on 09/26/2007
Have you ever thought that maybe Bennett wanted mommy and daddy both there when he got his vent out. He knew mommy and daddy would both be coming last night, so he said, I am going to make both of them soooooooooo happy at the same time, together, as a family. Just a thought. So happy for you all. Enjoy your son!!
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comment by Donna, John & Julia Eastman on 09/26/2007
Go Bennett, Go!
We are still here...rooting for you and praying for you.
Way to go baby :)
Love,
Donna, John & Julia
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comment by Rachel, Klint and Abbey P. on 09/26/2007
What wonderful news! Thank God for His continued blessings. Your family of 3 is an encouragement to many.
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comment by Robin on 09/26/2007
So happy (and not at all surprised!) to hear of Bennett's self-extubation. What an amazing boy you have!
Love y'all,
The Kernodles
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comment by Kimberly on 09/26/2007
I am praying that God will continue to work his wondrous miracles. May Bennett continue to grow and strengthen.
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comment by Ashley (Georgetown NICU) on 09/26/2007
Hey guys! I just heard the good news this morning and am so excited, although I have to say I am a little jealous that I wasn't there for the "big event"! I'm glad you guys were there and got to enjoy him in all of his "CPAP glory". I'm hoping that the next update will say that he has quickly moved on to High Flow Nasal Cannula, which will make him much happier. Just wanted to quickly congratulate all of you...it's been a long road, but there is definitely light at the end of this very dark tunnel. Can't wait to see you all tomorrow!
~Ashley
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comment by Chris, Rebekah, James & Henry Gelvin on 09/26/2007
We are so excited to hear about Bennett's progress. Thank you once again for sharing your precious baby boy with all of us. -The Gelvin Family, Sarasota, Florida
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comment by Suzannah on 09/26/2007
Boy, when God answers a prayer for Bennett to make the switch without any trouble, He sure does come through! I'm so happy that things are going well.
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comment by Shane & Holly Bender on 09/26/2007
The part about the tube being thrown to the ground gives me chills! That's so exciting!! We're still praying.
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comment by Linda Kemp on 09/26/2007
Wow! God is faithful, His wonders to perform! I am so thrilled with this newest development! Continuing to intercede, here in Abilene, TX, for a sweet family God put on my intercession list/heart. <3
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comment by Elaine Moss on 09/26/2007
What wonderful news! We are continuring our prayers for all of you. Of course, you do know that as soon as it is possible, we will want you to come visit. Please know how deeply you are loved.
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comment by Matt and Carolyn on 09/26/2007
Praise God for this wonderful news! We are continuing to pray each day for precious Bennett, and for you both. We pray that Bennett will be off of the CPAP soon and free of all breathing aides. Love you both.
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comment by becky brooks on 09/26/2007
Love this story...seeing Bennett's strength, seeing the Lords's strength...truly beautiful. I am so thankful for each of these milestones...And we continue to ask for more!
T, B p and b
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comment by Jerri Harrington on 09/26/2007
And here we all thought it was the doctor's decision when Bennett would come off of the respirator! I guess he and God decided it was time! I'm sure that "silent" scream won't be silent long. My dad was on the CPAP, and he couldn't make a sound on that either. God bless you all! What a wonderful day! Thank You, God, for hearing our prayers!
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comment by Shanta and Ken on 09/26/2007
HA! I love that Bennett is fiesty. That's wonderful news! Here's to more cheek smooching! We love you! Give him a kiss for us!
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comment by Tanya Hinckley on 09/26/2007
Go Bennett! Thanks so much for all the updates. I check several times a day to see how sweet Bennett is doing. Still praying...
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comment by Katherine, Ben & Nelson on 09/26/2007
Woohoo! What a way to get rid of that ventilator. He really wanted to make sure they didn't put it back in, huh? :) Such wonderful, happy news! We'll pray for him to get used to the CPAP!! :)
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comment by betsy gowens on 09/26/2007
Praise God!!! I check up on bennett everyday. Wonderul news!!
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comment by Amanda and Randall on 09/26/2007
Look out you two! You're going to have your hands full with Little B. Better make sure you have a full supply of happy juice!! What great news. I'm so happy for all three of you, though I'm suree Bennett is the happiest.
Love,
Amanda
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comment by Ed and Ozela on 09/26/2007
Praise God!!!!! He is so good to us!!!
Still praying for complete healing and going home with Mommy and Daddy soon!!
Love, Ed and Ozela
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comment by Martha Rogers on 09/26/2007
YAY!!! What a blessing! I know you are so excited and I love that Bennett decided when it was over. I think it helps us as parents to "not know" exactly when things happen in the NICU. Sometimes, it was harder for us to now than to be pleasantly surprised as you were. I think all babies hate the CPAP. Claire sure did. In fact, she looked so uncomfortable that I was more distraught with her on that than when she was on the vent...which is silly since it is so much less evasive. I am praying that Bennett's days on the CPAP will be short and soon he can be on a nasal canula or under a hood. Those are much more comfy. My heart is full of joy for you and sweet Bennett who is such a warrior of the Lord's already. Love you! M
(PS. We decided to keep our home internet so I am still here checking the site about 10 times a day :) Love you!)
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comment by Rick, Amy and Eva on 09/26/2007
Go Bennett! Love that story and that he's a fiesty one! Praying for you guys today and rejoicing with you. Lots of love from the Carders!
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comment by Debbie Turk on 09/26/2007
WHAT A GLORIOUS DAY!!! That little man knows what he wants and is dertermined to get it when he his ready. You wonder if one of those angels helped that tube travel all the way to the floor? We are so very happy for you all. We will keep praying and giving God the glory for all the wondrous progress and beg Him to keep healing. I'm confident that Bennett is holding tight to the heart strings of God.
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comment by Rachel Klick on 09/26/2007
OH I LOVE this story...this will be a fun one to tell for many years to come! This boy is destined for great things...it will be amazing to watch! I praise God daily for walking the tight rope with you. You are loved so very much and I am so very excited for this story...I'm excited you will hear Bennett cry soon! The three of you are continually in my thoughts and prayers.
In Him,
Rachel
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comment by danae on 09/26/2007
praise the Lord! bennett (and God) have a way of making me laugh and cry at the same time! we are SO excited for all of you and keep praying, alwaays. here's to another fabulous, God-graced day!
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comment by Peggy Garner on 09/26/2007
So glad to hear your good news--what a wonderful way to end your day! Thanks for all your sharing. Much hugs and prayers, Don and Peggy
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comment by Linda and Jim on 09/26/2007
YEA, YEA, YEA!! We are so excited for the three of you!! Praise God again and again! We anxiously await more and more blessings for you all in the days ahead. Sending love...
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comment by ginger on 09/26/2007
I'm just wondering where in the world that child got his fiestiness? Seriously..........
Such great news! We continue to pray.
Love you guys,
g
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comment by Carolyn Patterson on 09/26/2007
What wonderful news to start the day! We are so thrilled for you and can't wait to see where this fiestiness will take Bennett in years to come. Watch out, Mom and Dad! We continue to pray for ALL of you.
Kerry and Carolyn
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comment by Melissa (Pirtle) Mallicoat on 09/26/2007
You Go Bennett! He decided he was over that tube and just took it out himself. Maybe he is going to be a doctor when he grows up! We are so happy and thank the Lord for answered prayers.
Dave, Melissa and Rylee Mallicoat
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comment by Frank, Courtney, and Rhett Wilbert on 09/26/2007
Way to go Bennett! We are so happy for you and your parents. What a joyful day!
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comment by Elizabeth and Gavin Pate on 09/26/2007
How Exciting!!! You have one strong and determined little boy! He seems to have great personality and character - he will continue to do awesome things in his life, I'm sure! We continue to pray for all of you everyday!
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comment by Cyndi Osborn on 09/26/2007
I LOVE IT! Bennett ROCKS! This is such a great story and he will delight it hearing and telling it for the rest of his life!
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comment by Laura Brown on 09/26/2007
Like so many others- WOW!!!
That made me laugh and cry at the same time. Praise Him, Praise Him, Praise the Lord Almighty!
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comment by christy on 09/26/2007
Yipeeee!!! Way to go Bennett!! I got goosebumps reading that!! What a little fighter! We are so happy for you Bennett! Another answered prayer!
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comment by Jennifer King on 09/26/2007
Wow! What a great story! We continue to pray for healing and that God continues to amaze us in unexpected ways!!
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comment by Lisa Thomas on 09/26/2007
OH WOW! I'm telling ya- the NICU makes 'em fiesty! As much as Bennett hates diaper changes- that will be the next thing you find on the floor!
We are celebrating this wonderful milestone with you, and we continue to pray for more miracles in Bennetts healing!
Love you all!
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comment by The Pirtle's on 09/26/2007
We check your update every AM and was soooooooooooo glad to get the good news. You have a very special baby boy!!
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comment by Cynthia, Keith, and Brady on 09/26/2007
Welcome to the "Self-Extubation" Club Bennett! After my first surgery, I self-extubated myself too. I figured, why on earth do I need this thing clogging up my throat? So I just coughed it up. It was fun to watch all the doctors and nurses go crazy trying to figure out if they should re-intubate me or if I could breathe on my own...and through my nose! I showed them! :)
Glad to hear you are doing well Bennett!
~ Brady
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comment by Lisa Girouard on 09/26/2007
Way to go Sweet Bennett!!! You keep this up and you will be home real soon.
Praying for a great day full of more steps forward.
Love you all,
Lisa
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comment by Tiffany Gatto Bryson on 09/26/2007
Yahoo!!! My little, sedated, NICU baby pulled his own chest tube and came home from the hospital 10 days later. God knows when our little ones are ready to fly!!! Enjoy looking at that beautiful face.
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comment by Jennie on 09/26/2007
Kylie just got up in my lap while I was looking at pictures of Bennett. She said, "baby, hold you." I said, "that's baby Bennett" and she said, "hi, Bennett, hold you." I said, "do you want to hold him?" Then she reached out and hugged and kissed the computer!
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comment by Patty on 09/26/2007
What a strong, brave boy Bennett is! I was thrilled to read your message this morning. I will be thinking of you all today and pray he handles the CPAP well.
love,
Patty
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comment by Jennie on 09/26/2007
I love it when I can read a great update!! Can you believe how far he has come?! Tell little Bennett that we love him (and you both too)! Have a wonderful day! Keep doing what you're doing Bennett!
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comment by bonnie on 09/26/2007
What exciting news and an awesome answer to so many prayers. Sounds like Bennett is going to be a football player when he grows up!!!
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comment by Darren, Julia, and Daniel on 09/26/2007
Fantastic news! We're praising God and praying for a good day for the little guy.
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comment by Chris "Grandpa" Shunk on 09/26/2007
What great news to learn this morning when I turned my computer on. How happy and proud I am of Bennett and his parents. Our prayers have been answered and for that I say "Thank you lord" for blessing Bennett.
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comment by Mike, Staci, & Brody Knowlton on 09/26/2007
Yay!!!! I can't wait to see the pictures of him without the tube!!
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comment by melissa on 09/26/2007
Awesome!! I'm sitting at my desk crying. Much love and prayers for Bennett!!!
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comment by Lynley on 09/26/2007
Wow! I hope this is an indication of how spirited Bennett will be in life! This will be a story to tell the grandchildren one day!
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comment by sherrill on 09/26/2007
I am just so excited to hear about Bennett taking charge of the situation--what joy and fun to read this! God amazes us as to how he answers prayers--much better than we expect!!!!
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comment by Julie Kiser on 09/26/2007
YEAH! We are praying that God continues to heal that little boy and strengthen his lungs. We pray for only steps forward! Praying that he will do well with the CPAP!
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comment by Jill and Sammie Young on 09/26/2007
It is obvious that God is at work in Bennett! Bennett would not have this kind of power if it wasn't for Him, right?
We miss you at church! And we'll pray specifically that Bennett has no problems with the CPAP.
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comment by Kristen Yost on 09/26/2007
What wonderful news to hear first thing in the morning!!! I am so happy for you all and I hope he continues to do well!! God is so Great! We will continue praying for him!
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comment by James and Leslie on 09/26/2007
Wow. I just love that sweet Bennett! I can't wait to hear more stories of his little personality shining through. I pray that he gets used to the CPAP soon, but that he can also get off of it soon.
Still praying so much for your family...
Mayos
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comment by g and b on 09/26/2007
OH MY !! What exciting news to learn of the very first thing this am. This is the day the Lord hath made, let us rejoice and be glad in it !! love and prayers g and b
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comment by Dad on 09/26/2007
Way to go big boy. The sooner we get you out of there, the sooner we can get you to the creek with Boomer, Palmer, and Lainey Hope!
Praise our Lord God Almighty!!!
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comment by Elizabeth McBride on 09/26/2007
Yay!! What wonderful news to wake up to this morning!! I am so proud of Bennett and so HAPPY for y'all! Bennett is such a strong little man. I just love him!
Have a great day and give him lots of kisses on those adhesive-free cheeks!
Elizabeth
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comment by Tabitha on 09/26/2007
Way to Go Bennett!!!!
Thank You God for answering many prayers.
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comment by Elizabeth Shirley on 09/26/2007
What an awesome story! Kind of like God was letting Bennett do the honors of pulling out the tube. Incredible! I will continue to pray...
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comment by Jonathan, Jessica and Simone on 09/26/2007
What a great story! There is no question that your son is tenacious. We are thrilled that the tube is out and prayerful that all remains well today. We love you guys!
J,J amd S
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comment by The Fox Family on 09/26/2007
GO Bennett!!! We are so proud of you! What a great way to start our today by learning that you are one step closer to breathing fully on your own! Thank you God for answered prayers!
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comment by Jack & Ginny Wilson on 09/26/2007
Oh Happy day!!! Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
Thanks for taking the time to share your journey with all of us who have grown to love that sweet boy and his special parents!
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comment by John & Nancy Vaught on 09/26/2007
Way to go Bennett! I hope the transition goes well! Hunter continues to pray and askes to see the web site to see pictures of Bennett. Have a great day.
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comment by John, Elizabeth, Chloe & Mark Fortune on 09/26/2007
Hooray! We are so glad to hear that Bennett is off the vent. His fighting spirit is so evident and we know that both of you and so many others have been strengthened by his resolve. Our prayer is that the doctors are able to give you encouraging news this week, that Bennett adjust to CPAP, and that he continue to heal. May you see his little body with NO tubes or wires very soon! This is such a huge step forward! We love you all!
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comment by Colleen & Phil on 09/26/2007
Way to go Bennett! Y'all have a very determined, strong, beautiful baby boy. I think he is going to be running y'all's household :) Praise God in all his glory for the healing he continues to do through your sweet son! We will pray for his complete healing, for great CO2 and oxygen levels, and for his body to continue to strengthen. We love y'all and hope y'all continue to enjoy his sweet voice.
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comment by Julie Whaley on 09/26/2007
What wonderful news. I felt a chill through my body as you recapped the tube being thrown to the floor, like the hand of God saying we are done with this. I check your blog often and pray that he will do well with the CPAP.
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comment by Brenda Newberry on 09/26/2007
WOW!! That boy is really something! I guess he had enough of that tube! So thankful everything went ok when he did that. It just goes to show that he will continue to amaze you in unexpected ways! Prayers that he will adjust well to the CPAP and continue healing for his whole body. Love, Brenda
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