Wednesday, May 7, 2008

Who Is The Super Nice Person?

All right folks, I can’t stand it anymore. The gnomes in my dome are going crazy with something I just can’t get a handle on and I am soliciting all in blogland for your help. First of all I think that it is meet that you get updated on my sweet little boy’s last few days before I bother you all with what may seem benign trivialities but in my world find appropriateness as a vexed obstacle. Charlie is a champion. We’re slowly getting better with the administration of his care even to the point I was found bragging about the streamlined capacity and competence in which I am able to provide that care. That was, however, all well and good until this morning when I woke at 0600 to furnish required meds for Char and proceeded with the 0800 schedule and completely air balled the 0600 schedule. Gave the meds, thought nothing of it, and by some omnipresent act of luck the egregiousness of my error came to me just in time to stop my wife who was about to give the 0800 dosage and stopped what would have been a double/over dose for our little hero. Karma. She, with hardly a whinge acknowledged her husbands gross incompetence, gave the 0600 doses in lieu of the premature 0800 meds and by no help of his father Charlie is well. His mental and physical condition is largely unchanged since we left the hospital with his best hours coming at night (thank the Almighty) and his days full of bum patting, pooping and irritability induced squeals that at times are only audible to Champ (the dog). He still is super handsome and when I hold him and he is content I swear that he’s looking at me. I just wish they had a test they could do to tell us if his peepers are working and really why can’t they? I saw on the tube today that they can wipe a ducks rear end and determine its country of origin but they’ve yet to develop a way to test eye sight in uncooperative infants. Travesty.

Lest we digress there is a mystery in the House of Char and I need your help. Saturday morning a most unbelievable gift was dropped at our front door. Some selfless saint of a person has completely restored my faith in humanity. Throughout this experience w/ Charlie I am continually impressed by how many truly good and kind people are out there and Saturday was no exception. Someone out there canonized our blog and anonymously delivered it to our home. Understand, this gift is a compilation of every lame and blathering post that has been put on this blog, every picture and the compliment of all the priceless comments you have all added (In my opinion the comments are the only thing worth reading) bound in journal like fashion page protected and all. But here is the kicker, on the first page of volume one this nameless individual included a hand drawn picture of Charlie that if nothing else caused a grown man to weep like a little girl. It is a spectacular likeness and a gift we always treasure. Thus my issue, I want to thank you. I want to shake your hand and let you know how grateful we are for not only this gift but for the hours, energies and assets spent on its construction. Admittedly I am a proud man but not so proud that I can’t or don’t realize when a debt of gratitude is owed. Thank you for thinking of our family and caring enough about Charlie that you would provide this gift for his parents. It will always have a place in our home. Now someone out there has to know who did this and I want to know. Maybe you were in on it, maybe a little bird told you, either way it’s time to let the cat out of the bag. Credit should be given for such an undertaking. The floor is yours, talk amongst yourselves.

51 comments:

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful gift to a very deserving family! Unfortunately, I wasn't the one that put it together and I don't know who could have....I'm all the way here in CA. But, I'm sure who ever did, is truly a wonderful person who loves your little boy just like the rest of us!

And both you and your wife continue to amaze me with your incredible strength and faith that you have with what your family is going through....especially posting at 1am.

Charlie looks beautiful...the photo of him is so angelic. Thanks again for sharing him with us all....love from the Paddock family in CA. (Goodnight!)

Anonymous said...

It is wonserful of the person who did it. Let me tell you from experience. Some people like to to caring things for others who dont need to be credited for whatever they did. Be happy which you are and move on. We dont know you but we love you for who you are its got to be a tough job, but well worth it

Anonymous said...

Bravo to that Super Nice Person. Well done and well deserved by the Christensen family. Can we get a close up of that drawing... it looks amazing!

Anonymous said...

Wow, what an amazing gift for your family! You guys deserve it and keep up the good work!

The Chiltons said...

WOW that is really cool! I understand Rob's impatience at anonymity, when you are in a situation such as this you only wish with all your heart that you might one day be able to give back...Hey try having an unknown life saving organ donor in whom you will spend the rest of your breathing days trying to thank! Rob the family and acquaintances both known and unknown, who have shown themselves have been awe inspiring! And a tribute to you and Angel. Yet I too wonder who possessed the talent to produce such art? Joel Richard Taylor? We know how he has an uncanny ability to capture the majesty in a self portrait of him skiing! Or was it BJ Short? He is definitely world renown for the tapestry that is unveiled in his front yard every November...Nice work whomever you are! Rob keep up the posts they are awesome! I wonder will The Grizz be Encountered soon?

Anonymous said...

Oh, I'm sure this is just the beginning of nice things to come...For those of us who can't heal and feel helpless otherwise to help such a sweet boy and family, it does our hearts good to contribute in other ways!

Tammy said...

I agree with Jada Rose. I don't know who to thank for the gift that someone gave so that my son could live, I just pray to Heavenly Father that they will be comforted and that they will know how priceless their gift was.

We have also been the receivers of anonymous gifts and though it would be nice to be able to thank them personally and how much I want them to know how so thankful I am for what they gave me and my family. I also feel like sometimes that isn't the Lord's way and the only way that we can thank those anonymous people in our lives is to pay it forward and at some point in your life you will be in a position to "pay it forward" to another family in need in the future with similar circumstances.

You guys are doing what you are called to do at this time. Be there for Charlie and then when he gets older and he if and when he is able to understand you can explain to him and express to him all of the acts of love that was shown in his behalf. You guys are strong.

Great job to that anonymous person!

Anonymous said...

I know that my Redeemer lives;
What comfort this sweet sentence gives!
He lives, He lives, who once was dead;
He lives, my ever living Head.

He lives to bless me with His love,
He lives to plead for me above.
He lives my hungry soul to feed,
He lives to help in time of need.

He lives triumphant from the grave,
He lives eternally to save,
He lives all glorious in the sky,
He lives exalted there on high.

He lives to grant me rich supply,
He lives to guide me with His eye,
He lives to comfort me when faint,
He lives to hear my soul’s complaint.

He lives to silence all my fears,
He lives to wipe away my tears
He lives to calm my troubled heart,
He lives all blessings to impart.

He lives, my kind, wise, heavenly Friend,
He lives and loves me to the end;
He lives, and while He lives, I’ll sing;
He lives, my Prophet, Priest, and King.

He lives and grants me daily breath;
He lives, and I shall conquer death:
He lives my mansion to prepare;
He lives to bring me safely there.

He lives, all glory to His Name!
He lives, my Jesus, still the same.
Oh, the sweet joy this sentence gives,
I know that my Redeemer lives!

Matchbox Mom said...

Wow! What a fun thing for your family to recieve! Glad to hear little Cooper is doing well! GO COUGARS!

Nichole said...

I can understand how you would want to find out who did this. What a blessing to find this at your doorstep. That is absolutely amazing! Whoever did this...what a gift! You will truly be blessed for this act of kindness. That picture is beautiful!

Nikki said...

I have been humming the song "I know that my Redeemer Lives" as I sit here pondering the past few weeks of Charlie's battle. I came across an amazing talk by President Monson given in General Conference April 2007. I believe the time we have here is precious. Charlie has shown us its how you treat others in this life that make a difference. I hope you can all take a moment to read it.
Lots of Love,
Nikki

http://lds.org/conference/talk/display/0,5232,23-1-690-9,00.html

Anonymous said...

I am one of your followers reading your blog everyday. You and your family are so inspiring, I couldn't imagine going through what you have gone through. My stepsister is actually one of Charlies nurses (Amy), and I saw her picture of the cake she made. I am so happy that all these good things come to you and your family, you totally deserve it all. I hope and pray that all will be restored to little Charlie. God Bless!!

Anonymous said...

Wow What a great gift. We had a difficut time at Christmas, out daughter was really sick and in the hospital. We were someones sub for santa family. Yes Rob it kills you, you really want to know? We still do not know to this day, but the memories will last a lifetime. That is a neat neat thing. If you never find out then it's meant to be that way. I feel the same way as you PLEASE JUST TELL ME :). Have fun with that sweet little guy.

Love,

A family in BOUNTIFUL :)

Anonymous said...

That's the nice thing about being anonymous. You get to do fun, priceless things for people and then read about it on their blog.

Unfortunately, I am not the one who provided such a great memento of this time for you. But I am grateful for you that someone took the time to present you with that present. What a way to symbolize this traumatic time!

Good on you, Anonymous! & Good on you, Coop! We love you!

Kelli said...

I'm no help as to who left this awesome gift for you. But I just wanted to say I've been reading your blog for months now and think your family is so wonderful. Charlie is in my thoughts daily and there have been times I've though I'd like to come to the hospital to kiss that adorable little face. Thankfully I have reason, and being that I'm a complete stranger i thought better of just showing up! :) Charlie truely has a purpose, he has touched the hearts of so many.

Love and Prayers to your family!
Kelli

Marilee said...

Okay, I admit it-- It was me. There I said it. I is I who have the talent and ability to make such a beautiful creation. (cough) It is I who have the artistic gene passed down in my family to make such a beautiful portrait (hack). I just got on a plane and flew it there overnight because it is I who have a gazillion $$$ to make such a trip.
(gag). Anyone else who makes this claim is a poseur and a fake..
I am also a LIAR.
Seriously though Rob, sometimes anonymity is part of the gift. Cherish it.

Anonymous said...

Ah what a darling gift! My husband and I have followed Charlie's blog through a friends blog... We have been endeared to him through his amazing will and yours too! We are proud to say that we will be running in Charlie's behalf next weekend. Keep the faith!

Roxey said...

unfortunately I am of no help, but MAN! that's incredible. You completely deserve it. As i was researching last night in preparation to write the article, I was reading some of the first posts made. I say some, because I honestly couldn't see through my tears. You are such an example to me of strength, courage, and faith. Thank you. Love and prayers always.
Rox

Wilson 5 said...

You probably should just get used to this kind of stuff happening. I am sure it won't be the last time it does. This is what happens to good people...that's why we should be good. Wow, I am so profound! Love you guys

Anonymous said...

Rob and Angel,

I am anonymous, and I am the giver of the aforementioned gift (despite the fact that Marilee just called me a poseur and a fake! ;-)). In reality, I am the receiver of the gift: the gift of Charlie and of his amazing family. The gift of perspective, the gift of love, the gift of family, the gift of miracles wrought and those yet hoped and prayed for.

In full disclosure, I am not the only giver of the gift. I have a dearth of artistic ability. Another, far more talented individual, deserves the credit for that aspect.

We don’t mean to torment you by commenting yet anonymously, but we wanted to let you know your thanks are heard. And, you must admit at some level, having the gnomes in your dome go wild is just a little entertaining. Those of us who read the resultant ramblings can at least appreciate the expense!!

In all sincerity, it was my privilege and honor to be a part, even if for a moment, of Charlie’s experience. It is hard for those of us who long to be able to actually do something to be satiated with offering words of love and encouragement. This was merely my way of finding peace with the gnomes in my head. I do regret, however, that they have subsequently taken up residence in yours! I hope that knowing the thanks have been heard and are appreciated will silence the cacophony in your vernacular-rich noggin.

With much love and gratitude,

A friend

Kristin said...

I just wish I had done it... I'm so glad someone did. You guys totally deserve it. What a great gift!

Anonymous said...

why would a bird let the cat out of the bag???

Anonymous said...

Rob - I sympathize with you - the "anonymous" that made the gift would be a valuable friend. Just reading their comment shows that their heart and soul went into that book.
Charlie is a beautiful kid and he is very fortunate to have you, Angel and Britton.
GOD BLESS!

Anonymous said...

Meghan - if you're out there, is it still possible to walk for Charlie next weekend?

Anonymous said...

Rob:
I want to thank you for buying my husband and tator tot lunch at the chicken inn in morgan. We owe you.
By the way Dave says thanks.

Michelle Longman-Bowthorpe
Dave

Marilee said...

Dear anonymous friend.
What a great gift. I'm actually glad you have chosen to remain unknown-somehow it makes it even more special. Also, we all enjoy watching Rob with "gnomes in his dome". You and your artistic friend have given a gift that will not soon be forgotten.
Sincerely,
Marilee, the LIAR
(oh boy, gammy is not gonna like that title!!)

Anonymous said...

That's really great, a true treasure. Like someone said, they have given all of the readers the gift of sharing their remarkable journey. They have touched the lives of so many for the good. We all see life, our children, grandchildren, etc etc a little differently because of Charlie.

Anonymous said...

What a sincere gift and use of ones talents. I, like many others, sit back and wonder what me can do to help out. We can donate in whatever amount we can each give. We hope it all helps. But what else? You have so many friends and family that obviously care so deeply for you and for Charlie's recovery and those of us in blog world that have come to care for little Charlie as well. We wonder what we could possibly do since we feel he has opened our eyes, hearts and souls to what really matters in this life. This little boy has truly captured our souls and our thoughts are continually with him. We thank you again for sharing your experience, for showing us how strong one can be in the face of adversity. I continually am amazed at your strength. Your wife is so appropriately named. She has shown us mothers how strong one can be when caring for our children. Thank you Angel(and Rob) for your great examples as parents. Best wishes to Charlie and his wonderful big brother. Please share if there is anything that can be done. Can we still sign up to run in honor of Charlie? Is there anything else you may need? Our prayers are with Charlie for his comfort, strength and recovery.

Pearl Jammer said...

I'd take credit but I received a D from Ms. Piparini, and barely a C from Mrs. Mavin in art at the illustrious SDJ school of fine arts. So that rules me out.

Anonymous said...

What a wonderful gift! I found your blog from a link on a friend's page and read the whole story from beginning to end in one afternoon. I ached for you and cried and laughed and cheered out loud several times. I've gotten totally hooked and find myself updating my husband about Charlie as if he was a kid within my own family.
Thank you for being brave enough to share your story with the world. Charlie is such a beautiful little boy, there is such an amazing light in his face. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Your faith and your amazingly positive outlook are truly inspiring.
A family in Royse City, TX

Meghan said...

i must attest that the chalking of charlie is super awesome. i think they should frame it - totally cool. nice work, anonymous... ps, i know who you are. i will keep your secret safe, but it may kill me.

kjb, etc., of course i am still out there. are you kidding? you can still run for charlie - go to biau.org and sign up... then email me and i will give you more details. i will post next with my email and after you do i will delete the post with email...
ps. are you my bff with initials kjb?

Meghan said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

Amen to all of the previous comments! What an amazing gift! The "givers" will be blessed for all of their work. You have created such a treasure for Angel and Rob. Thank you from all of us who have grown to love Charlie, Britt, Angel and Rob! Rob, I like what one of the other people said about paying it forward. You are already paying it forward by sharing your story with all of us. You and your family have blessed our lives immeasurably. There was a point in the last couple of months when I was so down I could hardly go on. I have read your blog daily and Little Charlie has given me strength and your faith has bouyed me up. You do not know me, but you have all made a huge impact on my life. You have shared the gift of hope and endurance with all of us. You have shared your most frightening moments as well as those quiet reflections. You deserve all the good that we can share with you and your family. I know about many in your family and I know the love they have for your family. Charlie looks like a true angel in this picture! I am just sitting here weeping! Heavenly Father has blessed you to share Charlie's story with us. We are the recipient's of your learning and growth. May God bless you all and keep you in His tender care!
A grateful friend!

Anonymous said...

To Meghan,

I would love for you to verify with me my own identity for I do not believe there is any way you would nor could, in fact, know who I am. Are you playing cat and mouse with me?? Or would that be cat and bird???

I suppose I will have to await your discrete contact to know for sure!

Good luck!!

P.S. If you have somehow broken the small brotherhood of people who had to be involved, I do appreciate you valuing "the secret" more than even your life!!

Meghan said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Brea Marie said...

What an amazing gift! I swear I cry almost every time I read your blog. The drawing of Charlie is breath taking! Please, could you post it full blown for the rest of us to see just how spectacular it is. Thanks so letting us into your lives and letting us cry, laugh and smile right along with you.

Anonymous said...

We should hardly be surprised that "Anonymous" has bestowed this great gift upon your family... After all, look at all the stuff Anonymous has done before! Anonymous has said some of the most oft-quoted axioms and words of wisdom, written countless poems and works of prose. Anonymous has donated billions to hospitals and universities, paid people's debts in full, and performed countless acts of service. So now, Anonymous strikes again... and I must say, I love Anonymous!!
P.S. I am NOT "the" Anonymous! :-)

Ginny said...

I LOVE the comment above. It is itself a quotable quote! What a gift! I thank anonymous for representing the thousands of us who read from a distance and love Charlie and his family, even if we haven't met them. Angel, Rob, Britt, Charlie and other family have shared such a gift with us, it is only fair they get something back in return! You deserve it and every other good thing that comes into your life!!!

Ginny said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

I am so pleased to hear Charlie's home coming has gone so well and that the generosity of friends, family and people you don't even know still continue to care for and cheer for Charlie and celebrate his progress. Best of luck finding your mystery person but some people prefer to be silient givers. Charlie is such a little STUD! I pray you get some good news on those little eyes of his soon. I loved the duck comment, creepy, but I loved it!

Anonymous said...

I have been following your blog for some time after hearing about it from a friend of a friend from one of your high school classmates. I think you two--and your extended family and friends-- are doing an incredible job with Charlie. To share your world with us is just amazing--it profoundly affects those of us who look for your blog daily. I know there many people out there who have not posted yet who are sending you love and prayers from out here in internet-land.

I am a pediatrician in Las Vegas and I was wondering if they ever found out if the strain of strep pneumo was an unusual one not covered by the prevnar vaccine, (which covers the 7 most common strains young children get) or was it that Charlie was on of the rare kids who's immune system did not develop antibodies despite being vaccinated.

The Chiltons said...

Pediatrician in Las Vegas: I'm hoping the Christensen's aren't checking this blog too often but rather LOVING life in their wonderful home with their amazing boys. Perhaps I can help you with your question? This is the last update I recollect regarding the strain of strep cooper had.

Previous Post:

Dr. Hillary (works with Dr. Osguthorpe) came in to explain that they would like to do the MRI today at 5:00. She explained a little more about the gram stain sample that was taken from the spinal tap that diagnosed his meningitis. She even showed us a picture of a typical bacteria meningitis gram stain. The strep pneumococal bacteria is "gram positive" so it reacts to the staining material by turning purple. It also clusters in pairs. Earlier we mentioned that they would be testing his blood for appropriate antibody formation. Charlie was immunized for meningitis at 2, 4, and 6 months so they were curious if he made the right amount of antibodies in response the that exposure. He did! That is good news that there isn't an underlying immune problem. The next question is... Did his body recognize the organism when it came? We won't get this answer until later.

posted by Angel

[Perhaps another "Coop Fan" knows the answer to the last question?]

Anonymous said...

As someone who's never met you, but had the chance to follow your story and create a drawing of Charlie, I wanted you to know what an incredible and special boy (and family) you have! Many times while I was drawing I was brought to tears by the special spirit that lies within that beautiful body and by the incredible journey he and you have had to endure! It was impossible to capture in a drawing who Charlie really is and all he has done and yet has to offer. I just wanted to share and thank you for the incredible and spiritual experience it was for me to create the drawing and how I am a better person because of it! You are wonderful, wonderful people! I know there are angels (as well as Angel ;) with him and watching over him! Thank you for sharing your life with us!

Anonymous said...

You deserve many many anonymous gifts and even more than that. I have looked at your blog almost every day and followed your journey. I've cried every time I've looked at it. Your little boy is such a cutie and has touched so many lives.

Anonymous said...

The power of true love is amazing and God's greatest hope, grace, and gift. That is what Charlie inspires. I have been inspired to offer words from faraway as it is what I could offer. I wish it were me that left that gift so I could come to SLC in person and meet you.
And Rob,don't worry if you feel you don't measure up in the Char Care Department, You do! Why? because your're his Dad!! That is the best! Just for now,keep Angel close and use lots of words to describe your great adventures.Shyla from Montana

Anonymous said...

I was referred to your blog from a friend of mine. I have been completely amazed and humbled and I cannot sit back and not comment any longer.

Your family has changed me. Your child has changed me. I have heard stories of people like you but never really met them. And though I have never met you, I feel like I have.

Thank you for sharing your story. Charlie has helped me become a better mother to my children. Your parenting and your patience have caused me to evaluate my patience with my children, to hold them tighter and to love and appreciate them more.

We are all given trials to overcome. Your family has seen the gifts that can come from trials and so has everyone who has read this blog. The gift of a spirit, who even through pictures and stories, is still seen and felt.

I have read your blog and weeped for you and for you son, but mostly because every time I read your blog, I feel closer to God. That is the gift that comes from your child.

I pray that Charlie will get better and that many people will continue to know God through him.

Angel, you are unbelievable, amazing, and a mother I will never measure up to.

Thank you!

jaegerfamily said...

I just wanted to say that you are all truly amazing. I pray for your family daily. Charlie is a beautiful little boy. And I have no doubt that when he looks at his daddy he "sees" you. You will all be truly blessed.

Anonymous said...

What an amazing gift!!!! I have pretty much shown every one here today the picture. I only wish I could have been there to see Rob weep! Coop looks great and I miss you guys like crazy! There's a new kid in Charlie's room and every time I go to give a med, part of me wishes that by the time I turn around he will be there all cute in his bed! I am glad you are home though and honestly, was there ever any doubt that Angel would be an AMAZING caregiver...and Rob too with his Murse skills! Miss ya and love ya... always in my thoughts!

Becca

Anonymous said...

i have to say it was me!!!!!!

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