Fast forward to today, having been in the NICU for 2 months, she was able to go home with no oxygen or G-tube. Today, she is 1, and we have to watch her breathing as she is developing asthma, but she is thriving so strongly.

I found Tiny Hero’s community on Facebook. I wrote my story and asked for stories of hope in return, and the members did not disappoint. I got overwhelmed by the response and copied all the stories and images into a document that I printed and carried with me everywhere. I read it so many times the pages got worn thin. It was a physical hope to hold on to.

You would not know by looking at her what all she has been through. Sydney is the light of my life and I know one day she will share her story with others and provide so much hope for what is to come!

Now our sweet boy is almost seven months old and is starting to rock his feeds orally with only needing to use the G-tube once through the day and sleeps all night, so he is fed through the tube at night. He is finally reaching his developmental milestones and is such a sweet and happy baby.

For all of the CDH parents out there currently in the thick of it like us, know that these babies are stronger than you can imagine. They fight like hell and are so resilient. Also, remember to give yourself grace and know that a whole community is available to help get you through what is most likely one of the hardest things you will ever experience.

It was not an easy journey for our Amazing Gracie or our family, and it can still be challenging today. But we wouldn't trade our girl - exactly the way she is - for anything. Every day we're grateful for the gift of Grace.

We still can't believe Hayden is doing as well as he is today. He has oxygen support at ¼ liter and does have a G-tube, but it seems pretty minor compared to what they were expecting for our little guy. He is both a miracle and a blessing, and we thank God every day that he proved everyone wrong.

That day you first learn the words “Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia” is one you will never forget. May 10, 2019, will forever be a hard day for me. Only two days before my first Mother’s Day, our world was shattered.