Today, Kathy Emily and Monica (My cousin) started a walking pilgrimage to Midland Ontario (You can also call it a retreat). It will be a week filled with prayers singing and of course walking. They will walk approx. 25km every day and should arrive in Midland at Martyrs Shrine on friday evening. Those who have been on a walking pilgrimage will agree with me that they are very powerful and in a way they change you and your way of thinking. The girls main intention will be to pray for the well being of Alicia but they will also thank God for the wonderful supportive friends and family members who are constantly by our side. Kasia Ema and Monika I wish you girls lots of strength during the next week and don't worry about me as I got some good cabbage rolls and pierogies in the fridge. :)
Alicia ... Our dear Alicia, Alicia's condition is stable, she is still sedated and is receiving muscle relaxants and other medication to relieve her of any pain. Her artificial heart is working fine, the doctors are still fine-tuning it. She is receiving many blood transfusions still. I now understand why people have to donate blood and one day when the needle will not be as painful I will donate too. Today she needed another chest tube to be inserted into her little body as the fluids were not draining the way the doctors wanted them through the original chest tube. Poor thing, she has so many holes in her body. Yesterday (when she was off muscle relaxant meds) she opened her eyes and started to squeeze our hand. That was a good feeling, although she probably did not recognize us (do to heavy meds) it was still a wonderful feeling for us.
Take Care ----- Mirek
May God be with you Kasia, Emilka and Monika and allow you to gain strengh on this journey. Even though I can't walk along with you, my thoughts prayers are with you all day long and always will be. Alicia - remember that you are a fighter and your purpose in life is to bring joy to your parents and sister who can't wait to play with you. And last but not least Mirek if you get sick of cabbage rolls and pierogies you are always welcome to come for dinner to our house :)
Luv, Agata
Posted by: Agata & Adam | August 09, 2005 at 22:58
WOW Kathy you've got guts, you are one strong woman. I love it. Good luck in your journey and remember to drink lots of water.
Posted by: Erin | August 09, 2005 at 21:54
I hope Kasia and Emilka gain even more strength, courage and HOPE during this pilgrimage. To me it only shows what a strong and dedicated woman Kasia is !!!!!
Mirek - and you are not alone even now. We are all with you.
Posted by: Joanna Drozdz-Pakulska | August 09, 2005 at 16:50
Kathy, Emily and Monica I wish you all the best. This is a journey that is well needed. A break from the hospital life and a step closer to God. I continue to pray for Alicia. And may your pilgrimage be all that you hope it to be. Hugs and kisses to all espically Alicia and Emily. Remember Emily that you are a wonderful big sister!
Posted by: Lara | August 09, 2005 at 15:38
I am sure Emily will bring lots of joy and many smiles on this pilgrimage. She is such a deligthful child and she has always put a smile on my face. It will be a long journey for Kasia, Emily and Monika but worth every minute. I am happy to hear that Alicia's artificail heart is working fine. We are all praying that Alicia's strength will continue so that one day she can be with other children playing, as she should be. I love you Alicia.
Love Ciocia Basia
Posted by: Auntie Barbara | August 09, 2005 at 11:37
Go Girls !!! Good Luck on your pilgrimage, and also enjoy it.
Posted by: Alex | August 08, 2005 at 21:48