There’s no rest for the weary. That’s how today felt. But we have no complaints because we enjoyed all of it.
We met with the doctor this morning and he insisted that we get Claire out of her bed. They laid out that we needed to hold her and give her a wagon ride around the unit. It sounded like a good idea to us. It was.
The first order of business was to get Claire prepared for the day. This included a diaper change and a new hospital gown (she graduated to hospital gowns yesterday and feels much more proper partially clothed now). Her eyes were alert and searching while we prepped her. An unexpected show of progress had our hearts in our throats while we were talking to her. For context, while Claire has been awake, her eyes have tended to shift to her upper left: it seems she is more comfortable looking that direction. This could be due to the insult to the brain or just her natural tendency. Either way it has been difficult for her to shift her gaze to her right since waking up. Tiffany was talking to Claire on her left today when I came to the right side of the bed. I told her to “Look at Daddy” and then looked away briefly. The words weren’t out of my mouth when Tiffany said “She’s looking at you.” I looked back and her eyes had shifted to her right to meet mine. It is another small step, but it was a big one for her. Throughout the day Tiffany and I both kept testing and she was responsive with her looks and is starting to track with more efficacy.
We started the days activities with some Mommy-Claire bonding time. By the end of the day, Tiffany logged several hours worth of holding Claire. It was good for both girls.
Wagon rides around the PICU were next on the agenda. We also arranged to have Heidi and Autumn play roles. They hadn’t seen Claire for a few days and were able to spend about 30 minutes with her today while Claire cruised. They couldn’t follow her through the unit so we staged a train station where Claire would pull in for five minutes with Autumn and Heidi before taking another lap.
It was fun to watch the girls with Claire. They both said such sweet things to her and consoled her about some of the things that have been concerning them. Autumn was unsure of how to handle the news that Claire may need to use a wheelchair for a while. She took the opportunity to tell Claire that she didn’t need to worry about being in a wheelchair because she and Heidi would push her, help her and find things to do that she could do with them. The sweet things they whispered to her made us cry; and it was nice to be together as a family again.
Claire listened intently to Autumn and Heidi, watched their faces and tried to talk to them. Each time that we went to make another lap, the girls would watch us from around the corner and wait for Claire to return.
We all got a chance to get out of the hospital and go to a nearby park with our friends Jon, Becky and Evan. We are still tormented when we leave. It was great to get out, but each time we leave behind a member of our family. It doesn’t feel right, and we battle thoughts that continue to plague us. We miss Claire, and we miss being a family. We won’t be comfortable again until she rejoins us.
To hasten that return, we have learned that our tentative transfer to Baylor Children’s House is set for Tuesday. We are all eager to get started on Claire’s rehab, but we are sad to see so many people who have been so critical to this story left behind. We take consolation in the hope that we will soon be back to introduce Claire to the people who saved her life.
Thank you again for your prayers and support. We continue to be overwhelmed.
Our Claire Journal 
What beautiful Pictures! I love that they are black and white. You capture everyday your journey with your family and I do feel as though I am a part of your journey. Please know that I read daily.(my day is not complete without an update) You all continue to be in my thoughts and prayers! Love to you all!
~Priscilla
Today’s post and photos are so heartwarming. I’m so glad the girls are getting to spend some time with their sister. They are so sweet. And I think Claire being held by her mother is just what she needs. I love her progress. Much love and prayers. Miss you all so much.
How sweet of Autumn and Heidi! I spoke with Autumn briefly after she had just seen Claire, and I was so obvious that her spirits had really been lifted. I am glad that today was a good day.
Love you and hope to talk to you soon!
My wife and I are neighbors and church family of Glenn & Ruth Rogers who have shared your story with us. We’ve been inspired to pray for Claire many times, and as parents of little girls and a son, our hearts are with you. Keep up the good fight!
Hello,
I am a christian mother who was made aware of your story by a friend of mine. She doesn’t know you either but had heard about you from a friend of her’s. I have a daughter who was in the hospital at age three being diagnosed with a rare auto-immune disease and so I can relate to some of what you are saying. I want you to know that your story is such a blessing to me. I enjoy reading each post and I pray for you each time. Thank you for sharing your intimate thoughts and struggles. They are an encouragement to many as your faith is displayed so beautifully through them. May God continue to strengthen you and give you peace through this time. May He be pleased to fully heal your precious little daughter as He has mine.
In Him,
Cary Hopkins
My sister Marysue sent a prayer request for Claire and for your family. As I read the Journal and look at the photos, my heart is deeply touched by the love I see and feel as you share….
What an amazing, challenging, emotional, ‘heart-wrenching yet-with-joyful-moments-weaved-in’ Journey you are on! I thank God He is there with you, His Holy Spirit comforting Claire and you as you call on His Name. I ask the Lord to send Ministering Angels to surround Claire and an Angelic host to sing over her.
I call forth the Good Plans the Lord has for Claire and that He will continue to heal and completely restore her. I also ask the Lord to strengthen and encourage you, and I ask these things in the precious Name of Jesus. Amen.
Blessings and with love,
Maryal B.
The prayers in the Morgan household have not stopped. What beautiful pictures you have posted today. It is so helpful to keep is all along this journey with you! Keep your faith and perspective! Sounds like things are exhaustingly well. Still praying!
Grace, Danny and kids
So happy to read that Claire was able to look at her daddy! My family has been praying for Claire and your family throughout your progress. I have a daughter named Hannah Claire, and another daughter named Autumn, and yet another daughter who is 3. My children have also been touched by your experience and have been remembering Claire in their prayers throughout the day, as well. I read them your posts and show them the pictures, too. Thank you for the updates.
The progress has been remarkable, we continue to pray for Claire’s resoration and healing.
I have read your posts from day 1. I continue to pray for
Claire and your whole family. Tonight’s posts were very moving.
Thank you for taking the time to update us all. May God bless
Claire and watch over her.
What a joy to see Autumn and heide waiting for Claire. Thanks for letting us see them. We will continue to pray. It is such a joy to see Claire’s beautiful face. Tell Autumn, Heidi and Claire I love them.
Stacey Whitehead
Just wanted to let you know how much I look forward to your posts each day. I am so happy when I read about Claire’s progress. You are all in my thoughts and prayers daily!
Caroline Prigmore
The Las Colinas ED group, speaks about Claire’s progress daily, It seems to be a favorite topic every morning. Knowing how important each “little” step is, we are extremely excited to hear about claire’s progress. It seems that claire is still a patient here… at each shift change… we give reports to the oncoming staff about the patients we have in the unit… and with every shift change…. we give updates about claire. She is such a beautiful and sweet child… and very photogenic. May god continue to bless her …and continue to give you strength and stamina for the long road ahead. – Jeremy (LCMC ED)
Jeremy:
Tell everyone at LCMC ED that we are forever grateful and indebted to them. We eagerly anticipate the day when we bring Claire to visit.
Thank you so much for continuing to think, pray and support our little girl.
Tyler & Tiffany
Wow! What a beautiful post! I love the pictures-thank you for keeping us so updated!
Please remember our offers of help- whatever you need- there are people standing by. Don’t hesitate to ask!
The prayers continue…
Thanks for continuing to share your journey with us. We are praying and thinking about Claire each and every day. It is encouraging to see your faith shown in each post and hear about the progress your sweet girl is making. I hope the move to the rehab location is a smooth one tomorrow! We will be praying
Geri Wiley
What beautiful girls you have….it is nice to see the compassion and love in your other two girls eyes as they look at Claire. How hard it must be for them…I am praying for a speedy recovery for Claire. I was just wondering how old Claire is? It’s hard to tell by the pictures. I think about you everyday. Take good care. I am glad you all got to get out and enjoy some time.
Karen:
Claire is three and a half years old. She is our youngest.
Tyler, our hearts are bursting with excitement and joy as we read the post today! Such positive steps in recovery! It means so much to see pics of you all – helps us all feel connected to you in a deeper way. Please know the Simoneaux, Kauffman and Thurman households are praying diligently for all of you and are praising God for the work He is doing! We love you all!!!
Those pictures are soooo sweet! I bet they love every minute they get to spend with Claire. I am also so glad you guys get to hold her now- I am sure it makes Claire feel much better. Love you guys!!!!
Simply precious. You and Tiffany have such sweet girls. The part about Autumn and Heidi encouraging their baby sister make me cry. There is nothing quite like family.
The progress is exciting. I thank God for every small step and pray greedily for more. (Lol)
We love you.
Michelle
Tiffany and Tyler–
Thank for the update and pictures. What a beautiful family you have.
In continual prayer, Marty and Cindy
May God continue to bless your sweet Claire and the rest of your family. I am so glad to read that the girls were able to “play” with each other.
Thanks for the updates.. it helps in what to pray for during the day. Continue to have faith..
We heard about Claire from the Lindsays-{We are Rebekah & Brendans American grandparents}Please know that u have our thoughts and prayers, We continue to pray that our Lord will hold u all in His loving arms. We check Claires updates and feel close to u . We look forward to seeing Claire fully recovered the next time we visit Texas. We love seeing Gods Miracles. Sincerely Barbara & Frank
Keeping you and your family, friends, and loved ones in our prayers daily. I’m so thankful that you have the support you need. The summer for the kids to get use to the ideas that are ahead of them all. May God grant your prayers for full healing, total love and restoration of your family soon.
God bless you all.
It is so good to read of how Claire is responding! Thank you for the updates, for the photos, for sharing your journey. I KNOW that the Lord is hearing the many prayers lifted up to Him for Claire and for your family.How great for you to hold her for extended times! What wonderful stimulation, to get her out of her room in the wagon! And time with her sisters is as good as any medicine (for all!). Claire is clearly a fighter and we rejoice in each small step. I was reading Psalm 37 this morning, and verse 16 and 23-34 remind us all: “Those who obey the Lord are daily in His care and what He has given them will be theirs forever…If you do what the Lord wants, He will make certain each step you take is sure. The Lord will hold you hand and if you stumble, you still won’t fall.” Prayers and love continue to flow from San Diego.
great pictures! great big sisters! I pray for Claire and your family to heal as this journey continues. I have a soft spot in my heart for children and families who face situations that are unexpected and challenging. My son who was born with his own struggles has shown me the “true” beauty in life. Lots of hugs, prayers and love from all the Wood’s! Charlie,Liz,Tanner and Caroline 🙂
This is absolutely precious. The stories, the photos, the hope. I can’t express how encouraged I am by her progress. It promises so many good things. I pray you’ll have grace to endure these days of disruption and that you’ll continue to recognize the beauty as you did today.
With love,
Jeanne
What a wonderful day! Your family continues to be in my thoughts and prayers.
Good Morning, Claire-
Starting off the day in prayer for you, Sweet girl:
Dear God,
Thank you hor Claire’s recovery thus far.
Thank you for the steadfastness of this family.
Please give grace today.
They have been such good stewards.
Please help Claire recover fully.
In Jesus’ Name where all the power lies,
Amen
Absolutely love the picture of the girls waiting for Claire to come in the wagon; actually I love all of the photos! It does sound like an eventful day. Continuing to pray for perseverance and stamina, Claire’s healing, and for a smooth transition to Baylor Children’s House.
Praying for renewed strength, Susan
It has been such a blessing to read how Claire is doing each day. I pray that our notes have blessed you also in some small way. I know that you have hundreds of notes this way. But I want you to also know that even though many are people are reading your blog, praying, and leaving notes to you and your girls, many more people are reading your blog praying and not leaving notes. I praise God for your beautiful witness. I praise God for Claire, who she is, and who she will become. May God strengthen you and bless you in this day. May he send his Holy Spirit His comforter to give you peace.
In Christ Jesus,
Pearl
Best post yet!!! I actually whooped-clapped-cheered aloud while reading the part about Claire’s focus.. while sitting here alone in my living room. Seriously I woke up my poor little dog who was sleeping near my feet. He was so annoyed but I explained Claire’s progress and he just licked my hand and went back to sleep. I think that’s his way of telling me to send his love too…. So let Claire know Yoda the pug sends his warm furry slobbery dog kisses of get-well.
Tears of joy! What beautiful, sweet steps of progress.
You are all in my thoughts and prayers throughout each day. Thank you for posting updates. They are moving and inspiring.
Tiffany, Noah remembers Claire from MOPS. He saw her picture and said: “Hey, I know that one!” (He has some pronoun issues. 😉 ) Then his face turned serious and he said: “She got hurt? Is her mommy going to hug her better?” I told him that you are hugging Claire better as much as you can. ❤
Many prayers, hugs, and much love,
Amy
Amy:
Tell Noah that he made Claire’s mom and dad very happy with what he said. Thank you for this.
Tyler & Tiffany
Praying that today is another good day for Claire, that she’s showing more improvement toward returning to the “Claire” she was before her accident. How wonderful that her sisters could be with her and tell her all those encouraging, sweet and loving things they told her of how they would help her with her rehabilitation, and how much they loved her.
We thought her eyes looked so much better, her gaze steady and alert. Praise the Lord!, for this improvement!
Our prayers continue for all of you.
In His Love,
Ken & Jana Kirkpatrick
You do not know me but I heard about Claire through a friend. I just wanted you to know that I am praying for her recovery and added her to our Sunday school class prayer list this Sunday. She is a precious little girl and God loves her even more than we do here on earth so I am having faith she will recover and be able to go home with her family. We will keep on praying!! What a great idea to get her out and about in the wagon! 🙂
What a great day you all had! The pictures including Autumn and Heidi are so precious. You can see their love for her even in the backs of their heads! Tyler, your blog is such a gift to all those who love your family, even strangers. I’ve grown so close to you all. Thank you.
You are all held so closely in the palm of God’s hand. You are in my prayers and thoughts constantly. Now my prayer is that the transition to Baylor go as smoothly as possible.
Dodie
What wonderful news! I am so glad to hear that Claire continues to make progress, and that Heidi and Autumn got to spend more time with her today. The pictures are terrific. I really like the one of the three girls. Here’s hoping that you get to transfer to Baylors tomorrow , and that all will go smoothly.
It’s so good to hear about those little steps. We’ll keep on praying for you all! Send u a big hug.
Fantastic!!! For Claire to track you with her eyes is HUGELY encouraging. It sounds like the move to the rehab facility should be a really positive next step in recovery. I continue to pray for Claire and the entire family. And like so many others have told you, I go to your blog several times each day and will continue to do so till your family no longer has need of daily support. For you and your family’s sake, I hope that day comes soon!
My Sunday School class at MacArthur Boulevard Baptist Church in Valley Ranch prayed for Claire on Sunday morning. We will continue to pray for her complete healing!
When and if you feel up to us, would you tell us the story of what happened that day? I know so many people have found this blog over the last week or two that don’t know you (including myself) and we don’t know what fully happened. If you are up to it only though.
Prayers continue to flow for your daughter!
Karen:
Thank you for bringing this up. I do intend to tell the detailed story of what happened on the 30th in a future post. I’ll give a short summary here but I am going to withhold some details that I will end up including in the future post because they are hard to think through right now.
In summary, Claire had a near drowning incident at our apartment pool on May 30th. It was my oldest daughter’s 8th birthday party. We pulled her out of the water and administered CPR before emergency services arrived. She was taken to Las Colinas Medical Center. She didn’t have a pulse for 30 minutes. When LCMC revived her, they arranged for transportation to Medical City. We’ve been here since then.
There are a lot of details, wild emotions and despair in what I just related. I will share that after we’ve had a chance to come up for air. I appreciate everyone’s patience with Tiffany and I as we move to a point that we are able to share the story in full. We will certainly do so soon.
Tyler
Our church service this weekend focused on the healing of Jairus’ daughter. How fitting, as we wait for Claire’s healing and recovery. One of the points was: Jesus is never in a hurry and he is never late (He’s always on time even if it doesn’t match our schedule).
Here are the lyrics to a song we sang prior to the sermon:
How high, how wide
No matter where I am, healing is in Your hands
How deep, How strong,
And now by Your grace I stand (and Claire WILL stand!),
Healing is in Your hands
Tyler and Tiffany:
it was good to visit with you guys yesterday and to meet Tyler and his sweet mom, Susie…From past experience, I think all the signs you are seeing are very positive…keep remembering that heartaches and blessings can all come in the same package and where the brain is concerned, progress comes very slowly..
We are praying for you all and know, that Our Children’s House is a wonderful place for rehab.
sincerely,
sandra hardin IBC
I love the pictures! You tell a beautiful and transparent story every day and the pictures say what words cannot.
I was so encouraged to hear about your very busy day yesterday and especially of the interaction with her sisters.
I was at the grocery store shopping the other day and saw a woman that reminded me of Susie. And I prayed for Claire. I kept running into her, and prayed for Claire each time.
When I awake during the night she is the first thing on my mind.
I check my e-mail many, many times a day for the next update.
Thank you for taking the time to update us and giving us a glimpse as your little miracle unfolds like a rose.
Such happy news for today. Thanks also for the pictures. We are still praying for God’s strength and miracles for you all.
There are no such thing as small steps!!! Every step Claire makes toward recovery is HUGE… and a gift from God. You all are amazing… thank you again for allowing us to share this journey with you!!! We continue to pray daily… Marbella doesn’t forget Claire when she says her blessings!!!
Claire has been in our prayers since we heard of her accident. Our 3 year old son, Jude, prays for her daily before naps and bedtime. We have been following the updates sometimes with tears and others with excitement and hope. We trust in the Lord to carry her and your family through this time.
What is impossible with man is possible with God!
With love,
Julie, Rob, Jude and Naomi Nickell
Thanks for your honesty … we continue to pray and just wanted you to know that we love you guys.
Great news about Claire being able to track to the right with her eyes, you must be so happy and encouraged. Love the pictures of Heidi and Autumn “playing train” with their little sister. I’m so thankful to read of the progress and happy that Tiffany was able to hold her little one so much. You and your family continue to be in my prayers. Much love though Christ. Donna
What a wonderful heartwarming post, thanks for sharing and what sweet and beautiful girls you have.
What an awesome day you had! We are celebrating with you, thanking God for every step Claire makes. Thank you for sharing with us.
That is the best post I have read in a long time! It seems like almost everytime you post something, Claire is getting stronger and fighting harder. She is truely a very special girl that has an equally special family surrounding her during her recovery. You guys are awesome!
Hello Tyler and Tiffany,
You don’t know me but I am following your journey and praying for your little Claire to be restored. I can not imagine what emotions you all are going through and I pray God gives you the strength and grace to persevere this trial. All things are possible with God!!!! Kristin- Lakeland, FL
Beautiful Post!
Beautiful Girls!
Beautiful Claire!
Beautiful Miracles!
Beautiful Parenting!
~from your Beautiful Aunt! hahahaha!! Kidding!
I’m so proud of you guys and you are always in our prayers!
I just read this post to Faith (the best I could through all the tears). She loved seeing the pictures of Heidi and of course, of Claire. Faith asked to write to Claire, so I will type her words….
Dear Claire,
I love you and I hope you feel better. We are praying for you so badly. Don’t be scared. It’s alright. You’ll get out of the hospital soon.
Love Faith
(age 6)
Thank you for the updates. We cherish each bit of good news and each photo. Know our family’s hearts are tied to yours during this journey as we join you in interceding for your precious Claire.
Carolyn
What wonderful news of Claires progress! You don’t know me but I am praying for your little one praying for her full recovery and for God’s daily comfort and strength to uphold you through this journey of recovery.
The fact that Claire is tracking you with her eyes is HUGE and so encouraging. Rejoicing with you!
That may be the sweetest picture I’ve ever seen. You are an inspiration. :Deb from Texas School