TYSON MATTHEW KOTTELENBERG

This blog is about our 14 year old son Tyson. Tyson was born with serious complex congenital heart defects, (Hypoplastic Right Ventricle, Tricuspid Atresia, Coarctation of Aorta, Transposed Great Arteries, with VSD and ASD.) In short, the right side of his heart is completely under-developed (he has half a heart,) his main arteries are mixed up, and his aorta is narrow. He has undergone 3 open-heart surgeries and 5 heart catheterization procedures to try to 'repair' his heart. Tyson also has severe narrowing in his pulmonary veins which are causing higher venous pressures. He's still doing AMAZINGLY well all things considered. We entrust our dear son into the hands of God, knowing that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him!

Today We CELEBRATE

Today we CELEBRATE. We celebrate another year hospital-free and antibiotic-free. We celebrate our health. We celebrate our family. We celebrate the gift of doTERRA. But most of all, we celebrate God and all the things He is doing through our health and our family.
February is heart month, the month we raise awareness of Congenital Heart Defects, and the month we're blessed to celebrate another year hospital-free. Every February because of heart month, pictures of Tyson fill my page. But I would be remiss if I failed to give credit to the other beautiful humans in this picture.
So today, instead of another post solely about Tyson or CHD, we're taking a moment to celebrate ALL of our kids and the beautiful people they've become because of our journey with CHD.

We celebrate Braden, our oldest, who was just 7 years old when Tyson was born. You endured so much in the years that followed and we're forever grateful that God gave you to us first, so you could be strong for your younger siblings. You're strong, courageous and responsible beyond your years. Son, you're a rock and we're so proud of the man you've become. 
To the beautiful girl at your side, Caroline, thank-you for being Braden's best friend. Thank you for listening when he needs an attentive ear, for lifting him up when he falls, and standing by him when he needs a friend. 💗
We celebrate Merrick, our second born. You didn't always understand what was going on when you were juggled back and forth from home to the hospital to Grandma + Grandpa's house. Despite the uncertainty, you were always so full of spunk and joy, dancing and bringing laughter with you wherever you went. Never stop smiling and making us laugh. You prove every day that laughter truly is the best medicine. 👏
We celebrate Kenya, our oldest daughter. You were only 2 when Tyson was born and poor girl didn't know if you were coming or going. At 2 1/2, you toilet trained yourself because I was too busy caring for your medically-fragile brother, proving right from the start that you're strong and independent. Your crazy sense of humour shows you're free-spirited and confident. 🙅‍♀️
Tyson, our brave heart warrior. You went through more in the first 2 years of your life than most people do in a lifetime. 3 open-heart surgeries, 5 cardiac catheterizations and numerous other pokes and procedures. Through it all, you've put a smile on your face, endured every trial with utmost courage, and stood firm in your faith. 🙏
Addisyn Faith, our youngest, born a few years after Tyson. You came into our lives during very stressful times, and you definitely lived up to your name because God 'added' so much to our 'faith' through you. As a baby you were easy-going and slept anywhere because we hauled you along everywhere we went, including medical appointments and hospital stays. Your strong will and determination make you an absolute joy 👸
Raising a child with congenital hearts defects is sometimes hard, being the sibling is probably harder, and being the CHD warrior is likely toughest of all. But more often than not, our family experiences indescribable joy. We wouldn't wish CHD on any family, but with God there's always a purpose in the pain.