Andre Xavier's Blog, page 7

Day 333 | AUGUST 09, 2022

Good evening, Friends. Today is day 333 of our new and fantastic life!I am happy to report that I am seeing good progress on Julien’s sleep pattern, I know it is a little soon to celebrate, but he has been waking up right at 7 am, and I am praying that continues because it works perfectly with our morning routine.Charlie had a good day; in the morning, one of her good friends came over for a play date, the kids had a blast, and Charlie could catch up with her friend.I had a morning meeting, but I was home at noon, in time to take London and Charlie to the post office; we had an appointment to renew London's passport.London and I will attend my sister's wedding in Brazil in the fall; he is excited to travel again.After the passport appointment, we went to have lunch at Chipotle, One of Charlie's favorites; today was the first time that we had an outing with no Aid for Charlie, just us as a family; I can't even begin to express how amazing it was, the sense of normalcy, the freedom to be just us, it is incredible how much joy, the little things can bring, we ended our outing with Ice Cream from Ben and Jerry! London and his mommy love Ice Cream!We had a delicious dinner brought to us by one of our incredibly generous supporters; I am still amazed at how much our community has supported us! We are so grateful!!After Dinner, it was time to play with the boys, and Charlie is now back at reading to both boys before bed; we do book time in the living room with Charlie, and I take the boys to bed upstairs afterward.Slowly we are creating our little routine.Days like these give me hope; even before Charlie regains her mobility, we can see a glimpse of normalcy, and the future is starting to look better and better.I continue to pray and ask God for strength, but I also thank him for his abundant blessings.I couldn't resist reminding you that today is ,#NationalBookLoversDay, and It would be the perfect day to order your copy of our book, I Almost Lost Her - A memoir of unthinkable tragedy! You can buy the paper copy on our website or the kindle version on Amazon.We appreciate your support.Have a good night, and May God Bless You!André

Day 332 | AUGUST 08, 2022

Good evening, Friends; today is day 332 of our new and fantastic life!

Today was a good day.

Charlie had her first PT appointment since returning home, and it was a great day for her; when she got to her therapy, of course, the entire staff wanted to say hello and talked with her about her Cville Weekly cover story; she also interacted with other patients that also had read her story. She inspired Charlie with her own story, this person was also told she would never walk, and there she was, walking with the help of a cane, and she told Charlie, soon you will be here :); her interaction touched Charlie.

Charlie and baby Julien are starting to get their bond back; baby Julien is slowly charming Charlie; he is just so cute.

On the other hand, London is the true momma boy; he loves and follows Charlie around, and she loves it!

We take one day at a time and remain grateful; Charlie is healing and making progress daily.

I am continuing to learn each day in my new role, and yes, it is absolutely the hardest of the jobs, but as many of you told me, it is a very rewarding privilege.

Thank you for your continued support, and please continue to pray for us; our journey is long, and we continue to need God's Grace!

Have a good night, and May God Bless You!

André

Day 331 | AUGUST 07, 2022

Good evening, Friends. Today is day 331 of our new and fantastic life!

Sunday is our favorite family day. Usually, we do attend mass in the morning, but today I decided to sleep in; my body and mind needed it, and the boys cooperated.

We came downstairs around 8:45 am, and the boys and I enjoyed our breakfast; Charlie also slept in and joined us to enjoy her delicious avocado toast made by me.

Today I had the goal to meal prep and made a few meals for us, hoping to make my life easier during the week.

Julien and I went to the grocery store to get the few missing ingredients, and he did so well in the store with me.

After lunch and during Julien’s nap, I went to work.

From 1:30 pm until 5:30 pm, I was in the kitchen, I was able to make all the dishes I planned for, and I felt very accomplished, but I was exhausted!

Charlie had a lot of fun with London; while I was at the store with Julien, she and London played one of his favorite games, Operation.

One of our fantastic friends visited for a visit, and it was great catching up with her.

Tomorrow Charlie starts her busy schedule of PT and OT appointments; please continue to pray for her healing and progress.

Have a good Night, and May God Bless You!

André

Day 330 | AUGUST 06, 2022

Good evening, Friends. Today is day 330 of our new and fantastic life!

Today the boys decided to be easy on my second day on the job :); when my alarm went off at 6:50a, neither of them was awake, so I jumped in the shower, and when I could out, Julien was just starting. To wake up, perfect timing!

I changed Julien's diaper and went to wake London up, but he asked to sleep in just a little longer; I said no problem, come downstairs when you are ready.

He came downstairs within 15 minutes; I prepared a delicious breakfast for all of us, egg and cheese sandwiches made with love.

Charlie joined us before we finished our sandwiches, and it was a great breakfast.

We had a lazy morning, watching cartoons with the boys; Charlie enjoyed each moment with her boys.

Lunchtime came fast today, and luckily for me, we still had some leftovers from vovó fantastic food, so besides London, we all ate the pieces, and they were delicious.

Shortly after lunch, I took Julien upstairs for his nap time.

I took advantage of his nap time, ran some errands, and went to the pharmacy to pick up some of Charlie's prescriptions.

Charlie stayed back with London, and they played some board games.

Upon my return, it was almost time to leave for our afternoon activity; the boys and I planned to go to the Albemarle County Fair.

Around 3:30p, Julien was still asleep; I decided to wake him up; oh boy, he was mad! He didn’t like being awake; he was ready to go after a few minutes of protest.

London, Julien, and I made our way to the Fair; Julien is so adorable; he loves to dance when music is playing .

Charlie stayed back since the Fair was on a field with grass, not a safe combination for her 500 pounds chair; she did her shower and wound care while we were away.

The boys had a good time at the Fair; London ran to the tractor ride, and Julien was fascinated by the Bees’ display.

London went from the tractor into the bounce house, and he was there for a while; we also saw the chicken, pigs, lamb, and cows; they loved all the animals.

They even had cotton candy.

We returned home just before the rain, and it was time to make dinner.

I chose an easy and quick Kings Hawaiian rolls ham and cheese, a super delicious and easy recipe; Charlie used to make it often, and I love it! Today was my turn to make it.

Charlie approved, but she had some tips to share with me.

I had a late bath and bedtime start today, and it is ok; today, I had a regular day for most moms, but boy, it felt like I ran a marathon; I needed to get used to this new role; I knew it who'd be challenging, but I now know it is very hard, I am asking God for guidance, patience, and strength.

I am humbled by the strength Charlie, and all moms have; God, it is not easy, and you do it with a smile, May God Bless You for your example of fortitude!

Tonight, I am going to bed tired but so grateful for having Charlie by my side; all the changes are worth it because she is here with us!

Almost forgot! Vovo is safe at her home! She thanks all of your kind words towards her!

Thank you for your continued support and your book orders!

Have a good night! May God Bless You.

André

Day 329 | AUGUST 05, 2022

Good evening, Friends. Today is day 329 of our new and fantastic life!

Today was my first day fully in charge of the boys and the household; talk about responsibility.

The days started as I hoped, baby Julien waking up at 7 am, and the morning was perfect!

VoVo got some rest on her extra night with us, and by 9:40 am, we were headed to Richmond airport to get her on the flight back to Brazil.

This time, it all worked out! Her flight departed on time, and tomorrow morning, she will be in Brazil with my sisters and our family; I am grateful for all my mother has done!

I was back at the house by 112:30 pm, just on time for Lunch, and I did try to work, but we lost power for about one hour, and we took that time to play with the boys; once power was restored, I was able to get to my office and work until right at 5 pm that is when our nanny leaves, I prepared the boys first dinner by me, Mac and cheese and chicken breast, side of fruit, I am wondering how the boys will deal with a sudden change on their food.

After dinner was bath time and bedtime, Julien went down first, London second, and I am proud to say that by 8:25 pm, both boys were sleeping.

I feel good about my first day in my new role; please pray for me to be the best possible father and husband.

Charlie is doing very well, enjoying spending time with the boys, and getting ready for a full schedule of therapies starting next week.

She captured this sweet picture of me reading a book to the boys.

Thank you for your continued support, and May God Bless You!

André

Day 328 | AUGUST 04, 2022

Good evening, Friends. Today is day 328 of our new and fantastic life!

Today I was up at 7 am; Julien was ready to start his day; I got both boys ready and headed downstairs for breakfast; Vovo was told to focus on making her bags, and I handled the kids alone as I was going to be doing once, she leaves.

We had breakfast and by 7:40 am, I was back upstairs and placed both boys in my bedroom and turned on the TV for an episode of Blue; while I took a shower to all mothers out here, I salute you for being able to shower while taking care of the kids! Not an easy task (for me).

By 8 am, we were back downstairs, and by that time, Vovo and Charlie had joined us.

Charlie and I played with the boys for an hour until our wonderful Nanny arrived.

I headed to work while Charlie, Vovo, and the boys enjoyed the last hours with Vovo!

London was lovely and told Vovo how much he loved her!

Poor Baby Julien probably doesn't understand that Vovo is going away; in a way, it is better this way; he Loves Vovo so much that it would hurt to know that she is leaving.

We all had lunch together, and soon it was time for me to take Vovo to the airport; the goodbyes were hard for me; I had to say goodbye too many times. As an immigrant, leaving the ones you love behind when coming to a new country is hard.

Charlie did something unique and sweet to Vovo; she walked using the walker from her bedroom into our Kitchen and gave Vovo the biggest of hugs! It was so inspiring to see Charlie pushing herself too hard.

London and Julien also gave vovo hugs and kisses, and Vovo could not hold her tears back, nor could Charlie.

Our lovely neighbors came by to wish VoVo a safe trip and to say goodbye.

By 4:30 pm, we headed to Richmond airport somehow; I didn't realize how close the airport was to the VCU hospital; that is the same drive I have done for almost six months daily to Charlie.

I helped Vovo with her bags at the ticket counter, and at that moment, we were informed that Vovo's flight was being canceled!! Oh no!

Well, the agent at the United Counter was so kind and genuinely tried to help, so we ended up rebooking Vovo's flight to early tomorrow afternoon, with a long layover in Chicago airport.

Instead of being upset, Vovo and I just smiled and, well, one more day with the boys:)

We made our way home, arriving just in time to put the boys in bed.

After they were both asleep, Charlie, Vovo, and I enjoyed a light dinner and a great conversation tomorrow; we will try again; please pray that Vovo's flights depart tomorrow!

Sorry for the late post; we had so much to discuss.

Thank you for all the love for my birthday and Vovo!

Have a good night, and May God Bless You!

André

Day 327 | AUGUST 03, 2022

Good evening, Friends. Today is day 327 of our new and fantastic life!

Today is the day! Charlie returned home for the second time, and we hope she is with us a little longer this time.

The morning flew by today; as we got our home prepared for Charlie to return, I left for Richmond around lunchtime. When I got to the hospital, I grabbed lunch, and we ate before being discharged around 4 pm!

Charlie was in pain, but her enthusiasm was more significant than her pain.

As we entered the elevator at the Burn unit floor, a young gentleman sprinted towards the door and held it open; he wanted to say hello to Charlie and to thank her for being an inspiration to him and so many burn survivors. He had both his hands in compression garments, we asked his name, and he told us, and he also said, I am a Fireman, and I had both of my hands burned; it was a very emotional encounter for him and Charlie; I believe this is the first time, a burn survivor has approached Charlie and Thanked her for inspiring them, I could see how humbling that exchange was for Charlie, Mr. Fireman, Thank you for stopping the elevator and saying hi!

Encounters like this make us happy; to know that sharing our story positively impacts someone’s life! We are so grateful to God for the opportunity to continue to share his miracle.

Once we got home, this time was just us; unlike last time when hundreds of people came out to welcome her home, this time was just us, and it was perfect!

The boys had done chalk drawing in our driveway, and once inside, Julien and London came straight to mommy’s arms; they did not skip a beat; mommy was home!

After a few minutes of catching up, we had two amazing friends bring us dinner, and they also brought their kids; it was such a fun evening!

Tonight’s dinner is to pay homage to vovo! She is leaving tomorrow, and our friends wanted to show how much they appreciate her help and unconditional love!

I have no words to thank my mother for everything she has done for our family! Muito Obrigado, Mãe!

Charlie is home! She has made massive progress in the past five weeks, healing well, and soon, no more open wounds!

Tonight, I thank God for having my family under one roof! Tomorrow is a bittersweet day, Vovo is leaving, but she is also going home to be with my sisters and her grandchildren; she needs to rest!

I also would like to thank you for donating to the Bingo being organized by Do Good Cville, they are an excellent local nonprofit, and their generosity towards us is fantastic! I appreciate your support!

Have a good night! Thank you for your continued prayers and support!

May God Bless You!

André

Day 326 | AUGUST 02, 2022

Good evening, Friends. Today is day 326 of our new and fantastic life!

Today I tried to sleep in, but I was up by 8 am; it was nice to wake up in a hotel, but as I showered, I was thinking, no matter how nice or how beautiful a place is, to be there alone and without my family is not enjoyable.

I had breakfast with a good friend, and it was nice to catch up and bounce back some ideas.

Around lunchtime, I went to Patch to take some drone shots, and it was nice to see the changes, but I also noticed that I was avoiding the pavilion area (where the accident happened).

Upon my return to town, I had an appointment to get a suit for my sister's wedding in September; that was a pleasant experience, and I enjoyed sharing my story with the tailor and listening to their trauma story, beautiful conversation.

Charlie had a busy morning; she was taken off the IV meds this morning and is adjusting to being without.

She had an emotional interview with VCU media, received communion, and visited with Father Nick.

Tomorrow is the big day; Charlie is returning home once again.

I don't have a specific time yet, but she may be discharged early afternoon.

I also secure an appointment with the best hand surgeon at UVA, Dr. Bobby Chhabra. Thank you for all the help in getting this done!

Today at 5 pm, as I was seated in my beautiful hotel room, I decided that I wanted to go home to be with my boys and my mom, she is leaving in 2 days. I wanted to spend time with her, so I got my stuff and checked out early, I had a fantastic birthday and a second day of quiet, but I am happier amid my crazy busy life; I love my family!

Thank you for your continued support and prayers!

I am so grateful to God for once again bringing Charlie home!

Have a good night!

Please pray for a safe discharge for Charlie!

André

Day 325 | AUGUST 01, 2022

Good Evening Friends; today is day 325 of our new and fantastic life!

Today is my birthday! And I have so much to be grateful for!

I decided to start sleep training baby Julien since my mom was leaving very soon; he woke up at 4:45a, and he began to cry; I told my mom to wait and not go to him, and we waited no more than 5 minutes, and he went back to sleep! Wow! That was easy :); around 6:00 am, he started to cry, this time much louder; I once again told her to wait; this time was more like 10 minutes, and he went back to sleep, so I was up at 7 am, took my shower and by 7:40a, I was ready to go downstairs, baby Julien was asleep, I went into his room and woke him up.

I pray this will be the new normal once vovo is on leaves.

This morning, I took my mom on a little shopping trip, and we had a great time; and we ended up at Costco and ate lunch there; my mom loves their Chicken bake .

As you know, Charlie had arranged a fantastic gift for my birthday! It was amazing to have a two-night staycation at a local hotel and several relaxing activities, including a float and a sensory deprivation tank! I have never done it before, and I must say, it was one of the most relaxing things I have done; I was able to get inside of my mind and have the most explicit connection with myself, with no distractions; I highly recommend it for anyone that is not claustrophobic, it will help you relax feel reconnected with yourself.

Charlie was so thoughtful with her gift; she even sent me delicious school-covered strawberries; part of me is sad that I am not with Charlie, but the other part is so grateful for this break!

I ended the evening with a great dinner and drinks with my business partner and friend Jon, it has been a while since we talked, and I am so grateful for him; he has been a fantastic friend to me during these challenging times! It was great to catch up.

Enough about me; Charlie has a good day; she is feeling good and is counting the hours to be home tonight. They will cut a big part of her pain meds; please pray for her to overcome the pain and stay strong.

During my float today, I deeply analyzed my life, and I feel so blessed; I have so much to be grateful for it, and Charlie is on the top of my list! I could not imagine a life without her!

Thank you for all your love and support!

If I could ask for a gift, it would be for you to purchase your copy of our book! Doing it will help us spread our story and give hope to anyone in need.

Thank you, and God Bless You!

André

Day 324 | JULY 31, 2022

Good evening, friends. Today is day 324 of our new and fantastic life!

I want to start by saying thank you!

Your responses on what is the takeaway you have from our story are so inspiring; you may not have an idea how much your words impact us; I am grateful for the ones that faced vulnerability and shared your response, and I also encouraged the ones that have not shared yet, I would love to hear your answers.

Today I slept in; I am shameless, taking full advantage of Vovo's last days with us; she will be missed.

I can down around 10 am; both boys were playing; they had had breakfast, and since it was raining outside, we decided to watch Luca on Disney; London loves that movie!

Besides the rain, we went outside and played for a little with our next-door neighbor, and Julien tried his balance bike for the first time, and I can always tell he will follow in London's footsteps.

After lunch, I let Vovo get her rest since she was up early, and I played with the boys’ downstairs; London had built a great fort, and we had a lot of fun playing pretend.

Around 5 pm, I decided to come and see Charlie but mainly to start to bring the large items back home since on Wednesday we won't have space on our accessible van to transport them.

I was happy to see Charlie feeling better, she had a good conversation with the doctors, and they adjusted her meds; now, she is no longer feeling the effects of withdrawal.

Tomorrow is my birthday, and I have so much to be grateful for, my sweet and beautiful wife gifted me a two-day staycation locally, and her orders are for me to relax and enjoy these two days kids free and worry-free; I will do my best, but I will be honest, it will be so hard to not worry about everything, but I also know that I must reset my mind because once Vovo leaves it is me 100% in charge of the kids and the house! It is time I have to prepare mentally!

Please continue to pray for us, and thank you for your support!

May God Bless You!

André