Today marks a pivotal moment in Brayden’s journey — a day filled with a whirlwind of emotions, prayers, and overwhelming gratitude. It’s the day we’ve been waiting for, dreading, and praying for with all our hearts. After months of anticipation and uncertainty, the surgery Brayden so desperately needed is finally behind us.
It all started early this morning, around 6:30, when they came to take Brayden for surgery. We walked with him to sign the consent forms and review the procedure one last time. As we made our way down the hall, something caught Brayden’s eye — a wall of brand new, donated toys. He picked out a frog ball, a sweet nod to my late Maw-Maw Mary, who was always obsessed with frogs. “Fully Rely On God” — it made me smile in the midst of everything.
We met the surgical team, and it was clear just how major the surgery was. The team was large, and the gravity of what was about to happen settled in. Brayden was understandably scared, but somehow, he managed to reassure me, telling me to take a deep breath. I prayed over him and the team, kissed him goodbye, and watched as they rolled him away.
And then, the strangest thing happened. Yes, of course, I cried, but a sense of peace, a peace that only God could provide, washed over me. As we returned to our room, I could hear in my spirit, “I’ve got him… I’ve got him!” I took a deep breath, and with my husband by my side, we tried to distract ourselves. We sang, prayed, and even watched movies like
Elf, Wicked, and A Christmas Story — laughing, even while our precious boy was undergoing brain surgery. How could we laugh? GOD.
Throughout the day, we received hundreds of messages, texts, and prayers from so many people checking on us. It made such a difference, and we are beyond grateful for your support. It’s the kind of love and encouragement that lifts us up when we need it most.
The signs we had received in the days leading up to the surgery were undeniable. We knew God was guiding us — to this exact date, this moment, and this surgery. We didn’t allow fear to take hold because we were filled with faith.
We were blessed to receive hourly updates during the surgery, which helped ease our minds. The medical team’s use of cutting-edge technology — including EEGs and MRIs during surgery — was key in ensuring the best outcome for Brayden. The MRI showed that a bit more tissue needed to be removed, and in a quick decision, the neurosurgeon took care of it, ensuring Brayden’s health moving forward.
The surgery itself went smoothly. Brayden’s vitals remained stable, and he went to sleep without complications. The surgeon’s quick thinking to remove the additional tissue was a relief. And now, Brayden is recovering well. He’s been his usual self — cracking jokes, being silly, and even smiling. I reminded him he didn’t need to smile — he just had brain surgery!
As for Daddy, he spent the afternoon trying to get my car started in the parking lot instead of staying with Brayden. That’s just who he is! Thankfully, Brayden was in and out of sleep, and Daddy was able to head back home to our strong big kids later in the day.
In the middle of the surgery, I felt it was the right time to make a donation to Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital and the Epilepsy Foundation. Thanks to the generosity of so many of you, we raised nearly $1300, which was split evenly between the two foundations. Your support has been overwhelming, and we can’t thank you enough for your kindness and prayers. 🙌🏼
Though the road ahead is still filled with recovery, we are filled with gratitude. Brayden has shown us what true strength looks like — not only through his bravery but through the love, faith, and support of everyone around him. This journey is far from over, but today, we celebrate the incredible steps forward, the healing that’s already begun, and the unshakable faith that got us here.
Please continue to pray for Brayden as he continues to heal. We are so thankful for all of you — for your love, prayers, and support. You have helped carry us through the toughest days.
Together, we keep fighting, we keep praying, and we keep believing.
