Errol Milner Clifford 2006-2009

Errol Milner Clifford was born with a significant heart defect and a cognitive disability that prevented him from walking or talking. As we grieved the child we had anticipated, Errol’s full-bodied smile and irrepressible laugh turned our sorrow into joy, and taught us that many of the best things in life are unexpected. Inspired by Errol’s delightful spirit, friends, family, and neighbors rallied to support our family’s significant emotional, physical, and financial needs, through countless acts of selfless generosity. When Errol’s courageous heart finally failed him on December 23, 2009 we were left numb with grief. In these dark hours we listen hopefully for the echoes of Errol’s brilliant laugh. This blog is the story (starting from present and working back to Errol's birth) of the life and times of the amazing Errol Clifford.


Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Merry Christmas


Errol the Day Before Surgery

Brother Owen had been hoping that we were going to be home for Christmas, but ever since the day of Errol's surgery, when Santa put in a guest appearance at the hospital - along with amazing presents, Owen's been hoping we'd spend Christmas right here in the hospital. It looks like he's gong to get his wish.

And here's an early Christmas present. Errol just got his foley tube out and the PCICU team is talking about extubating him in the morning. Whoot! Whoot!

We are moving at a slow pace, but everything is positive. Like Errol.

Ho! Ho! Ho!

Owen Waiting for Santa at Duke On Surgery Day

6 comments:

Hayne Beattie-Gray said...

Clifford/Milner Clan - We have been keeping tabs on all of you from afar through Stacey and Jay. We are sending lots of healing thoughts to Errol and wishing you all peace and health in the coming new year. Big love from the Gray Family - Jonathan, Hayne, Isabel, Hamlin, and Zeb

andrea said...

Rock and Roll...We would love to send our Children's Christmas compilation your way including jingle toots;)....
Is there an address where Santa is delivering gifts to the Milner/Cliffords? ;)

Beth Thompson said...

Thank you for writing with such medical and emotional detail Jonathan. It helps those who love you and Cary and Errol and Owen so much feel closer. Sending you Niagra Falls of love- not so much to drown you sweet fish but just enough to float in.

Carol Kirby said...

Belkie Bear was here today, distributing bears to all, and I know Ms. Jennifer and Ms. Paula picked out the nicest, fluffiest one for Errol. We miss him so much, especially at this time of year!
Cary, the staff was thrilled to find out that Mike and I were giving them each (90, count'em!) a "Cary-Cookie" for Christmas. We are all happily chewing on them as I type. They may have to reinforce the Children's Center foundation to handle our collective added weight! Love you guys -- kisses to our boy!!

Anonymous said...

Hello all-

Love is still coming...You are constantly in my thoughts. Stay strong and take care of yourselves while the good folks help Errol heal. Izzie

PDX RE said...

We check in every day on Errol's status. Know that we wish Errol a quick recovery and think Owen is the bravest brother EVER!!!