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I'm Shay! I’m a cookbook author, lifestyle blogger, travel agency owner, wife and mama who loves making every day special for my family.

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Mix & Match Mama

Adoption, Ashby ·

What if?


This morning is procedure number TWELVE.

Twelve procedures in 20 months.

As always, we covet your prayers today and this weekend as she recovers.  These procedures are getting harder and harder on her.  Right now, they’re working on her hand and elbow and hoping to get up to her chest and upper back.  They attempted her chest during procedure number ten, but were not successful…so it left her with a bunch of pain (from where they were poking holes in her) and no results.

Our specific prayer requests are as follows:
1. Ashby’s heart.  This is emotionally really tough on her.  We told her last week that this was going to happen (because she likes advanced notice) and she has been counting down the “sleeps” until today.  In the car on Monday morning, she said she was scared, and I went on to say how I understood but that these surgeries are helping her and her special hand.  She said, “Yeah, but it still looks bad.”  Oh my mama heart.  She understands that because of these procedures, she has more dexterity and use of her right hand and she knows that these are keeping her “healthy”, but aesthetically, she’s not happy with the results.  Just pray for her sweet, sweet five year old heart this morning.
2. Pray for a speedy recovery with no nausea.  She has violently thrown up post-procedure the last two times.  Please pray that doesn’t happen this time.  Please also pray that the pain meds minimize her pain for several days.
3. Please pray that if there is something else in there, they find it.  Over the course of 11 of these things, they have removed both aneurysms and blood clots while they were in there doing other stuff.  As horrible as these are for us, I about cannot breathe sometimes thinking about when they’re done and then no one is digging around inside of her finding these things that could be fatal if not removed.  We’ll be left with what?  Yearly MRIs?  I don’t know?  It scares me to death though.  As bad as these procedures are at least we know if something bad is inside.  How will we know when this is over?  Lots of questions this mama heart hates thinking about.

What if we hadn’t of adopted Ashby?  Her little body can not fight off these aneurysms and blood clots on their own…she needs (has needed) medical attention to keep her healthy. I want to encourage YOU, friends.  There are millions of kids out there who need some medical attention to live.  They’re in orphanages right now without the right care.  YOU can do something about that.  I’m not talking to everyone, but I’m talking to those of you who know in your hearts that you should be adopting, but you’re stalling.  Friends, YOUR kids need you!!  Stop waiting!  Go get them and bring them home.  What if you don’t?  Guys…what happens if you don’t?

Okay, I’ll end on a funny note today.  Yesterday, I had Bowen and Ashby in the car and this was the conversation I heard…
Ashby: Bowen, I have surgery tomorrow.
Bowen: I know.  Do they give you lots of shots?
Ashby: Bowen, listen to me.  They make me drink silly juice that tastes like poop.  Bowen, it tastes like poop.
Bowen: Ashby, that’s terrible (in a very sympathetic voice).
Ashby: I know, Bowen.  I know.

Hahahaha!  I mean…I doubt it tastes like poop, but she does not enjoy the “silly juice” they give her.  The bright spot to this is that she’s worried about the silly juice and not the other stuff: IV, pain, cast, recovery, vomiting, etc.  She’s worried about the silly juice that tastes like poop. #fiveyearoldproblems

Thanks for your prayers.  I love each and every one of you. xo

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Comments

  1. Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says

    Life has a funny way of working things. Ashby is so lucky to have met you, and you are so lucky to have met her. The impact you have had on each other is incredible. She is a strong girl and you are a strong mama, Shay! 🙂
    –
    Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
    http://charmainenyw.com

  4. Rebecca A VanDeMark says

    My heart goes out to both you mama and to sweet dear Ashby… reading this I had tears. My prayers are simple this morning- that each of the prayer request that you mentioned would be answered and that specifically fear would be completely removed. You amaze me- as do each and every mama walking through a health crisis and journey with their children. I couldn’t have made it through my journey or this far without my mama… you are changing her life. Praying for both of you this morning and for grace to meet in these unfathomably difficult moments.
    Sending Gentle Hugs, Rebecca
    PS- I hesitate to suggest this as I am sure that you know EVERYTHING but someone once suggested it to me and it has made a huge difference… I used to wake up from every surgery extremely sick and couldn’t stop throwing up. It was awful and wouldn’t stop for 24-48 hours and I would still feel extremely sick even after that subsided. I received a blog comment from another lady going through a health crisis sharing that I should see if there was a different type of anesthesia that could be used. I had never considered this and hesitantly asked. Changing the anesthesia with the combination of them giving me anti-nausea meds (before I woke up) has helped tremendously. Not completely cured it but helped. AGAIN, I hesitated to share as I sometimes hate suggestions, but felt a nudge to share in the chance it might also help Ashby. Forgive me for any overstepping… I know comments don’t always come across right- I hope this one may help in some small way from one gal traveling health journey to another warrior.

    • Ashley says

      I agree with the different anesthesia! I also had that issue and warned them ahead of my surgery so they would give me a dose of Ondansetron in my IV while I’m being prepped for surgery and haven’t had an issue since. Again, I’m just a patient and no medical expert (although I do watch Grey’s ha!) but this helped me a whole lot and the fact that I brought up the medication made them very relieved to tell them and they were happy to help me and cater to my requests. I’m sure it’s different with children but just wanted to see if I could help in some way! Prayers for your sweet girl and for you and Andrew to be comforted through these times! <3

  5. Erika Slaughter says

    Praying for Ashby this morning and you too, Mama. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

  8. Nikki says

    Ashby is so strong, and so are you Shay..I know your strength comes from the Lord, and I’m praying He continues to strengthen you. Exodus 14:14, “The Lord will fight for you, you need only to be still.” Praying for Ashby today!

  11. Amy Heinl says

    Dear Heavenly Father…I ask that you hold sweet Ashby in your living and protective arms this day. Please be with her surgeons during her delicate surgery today. I ask that you surround her with peace and calmness today and ask that you bless her today with freedom from the many side effects of these lifesaving procedures. Please comfort and strengthen her family as they support and care for her. Finally, I ask that you hold this beautiful loving princess close to your heart today so that she may feel your awesome power and pull strength from your amazing love

  13. Antoinette Heidle says

    Thoughts and prayers for sweet little Ashby that all goes as planned and pain meds help. Wishing her a speedy recovery. Stay strong little Princess!!!

  15. Elspeth Mizner says

    I’ll say a special prayer for both you and Ashby today!! What a strong little girl! She’s gonna do great!

  16. Denise says

    Prayers for sweet Ashby <3 from Michigan …. what a strong and brave little girl!

  18. Jenn says

    Prayers for you and your sweet, brave girl. Can’t imagine having to go through this. She is so lucky to have you guys!

  20. E Omland says

    Prayers for you and your sweet baby this morning! Have they tried Zofran in her IV or after she wakes? I agree with the comments about changing anesthesia. Definitely chat with the anesthesiologist about her trouble and see what they can adjust for her! Hugs!

  22. Holly Breton @ Pink Lady says

    Sending you all prayers and healing thoughts, especially little Ashby- she is such an inspiration as are you and your entire family XO

  25. Lauren says

    Just prayed for your sweet girl. May the peace of Christ which transcends all understanding guard Ashby’s (and your) heart and mind today, Lord.

  26. Andrea says

    Saying a prayer for sweet Ashby this morning! She is so brave, and wise beyond her years!

  28. Sheaffer Sims says

    So many prayers for sweet Ashby today from the Sims house and all around the world! That girl is amazing, inspiring, brave, loving, AND JUST PLAIN SWEET. Lots of prayers for you too, mama. And the Bowen conversation was precious.

  32. Julie C. says

    I’ll be thinking of you & your sweet Ashby today. I hope recovery is a little better this time around. Stay strong sweet girl!!!!

  33. Karen says

    Praying for all of you, especially sweet Ashby. As former pediatric nurse, I loved the silly juice story – you just never know what they’re thinking! Bravo to you and your family for opening your hearts to these precious girls!

  34. Dawn says

    Prayers of strength, and a peaceful and painless recovery for your sweet Ashby. Prayers for God to guide the doctors hands and minds while working on her.

  36. Sonia says

    Praying for Ashby, you, Andrew and your family…sending you love, prayers and virtual hugs!!

  37. Crystal says

    Praying for the peace of the Holy Spirit to wash over all of you today. I pray that you will feel fully surrounded & jus wrapped up in God’s great love for each one of you. It’s not just tough on Ashby- I can’t imagine how these procedures hurt your hearts too 🙁
    May the Lord guide the hands, heads & hearts of all of the medical professionals that sweet Ashby encounters… & that he opens their eyes wide & guides them right to anything that might be hiding in her little body.
    I will pray fervently for your sweet girl- may it be as easy on her (& you all also) as possible!!
    She is so inspiring & so very brave-
    I still want to be just like her when I grow up! 😉

  38. Kelly says

    Prayers for sweet, strong Ashby and for you as well. Through my health struggles I clung to this saying I happen to read right in the beginning “You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.” Ashby is a STRONG girl! Praying for a successful surgery and smooth recovery. And her poop story is just too funny.

  42. Christine says

    We adopted our sweet daughter from China (and we’re going back to China later this year for our new daughter!), and I pray for your sweet Ashby every day. I know what it’s like to worry about our kiddos. And I will be praying for YOU, too. I think it’s almost as hard on the mamas! 🙂

  43. Kristin says

    Prayers for everyone involved, but especially Ashby. And I can’t imagine the fear you must experience regularly, so many prayers for you Shay.

  44. Lindsay B says

    Praying fiercely for your brave sweet girl this morning. Also saying a prayer for her Mama, Daddy, brother, and sisters. Sending hugs and love from Virginia!

  46. Laci says

    Many prayers going up for Ashby this morning as well as your family! So hard to see your loved one hurt and sick.

  47. Karla says

    I am praying for this sweet girl and you. Strength, protection, answers, progress, endurance, hope, peace, grit.
    ??❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️??

  50. Heather S says

    Prayers of speedy healing for Sweet Ashby this morning as well as for your mama heart. I don’t know how you all can handle this month after month. He knew what He was doing when Ashby became a Shull for sure!!

  53. Stacy says

    Adding Ashby and all of y’all to our prayer list. You’ll have some Prayer Warriors in your corner down here in Ga. Love to you all…

  54. Nancy Arlinghaus says

    Prayers for sweet Ashby and your family. You are so blessed to have her to love…..and she is so blessed to loved by you.

  55. Sarah | The Teacher's Wife says

    Praying right now for sweet Ashby! I can only imagine how the what ifs can keep you up at night! I’m thankful for the reminder of Easter and knowing that God knows exactly what he’s doing!! He’s got her!!

  58. Kaylia says

    Sending prayers for brave Ashby! She is a true warrior and inspiration to all. May God watch over her and all her physicians today and in the rough days to come.

  59. Hope Fortner says

    Praying for all of you, for the doctors, and for your sweet, sweet girl today. God has written and is continuing to author such an amazing story for Ashby, and I can’t wait to see how her precious little heart impacts others for Him as a result of these struggles. Jeremiah 29:11 is the verse my mom has prayed over me since I was born, and I’m praying it for Ashby today and every day! Even though you’ve never met the majority is who read and comment, I think I can speak for us when I say your family is loved dearly and deeply. Big, big hugs to each and everyone of you!

  61. Barbara Parnell says

    Keeping your precious girl in my prayers..how brave she is. Also, praying for you…I k ow how we parents hide out fears and have to keep a brave face for our children. all will be well….hang in there.

  64. Amy Getz says

    If any thing can help, it’s prayers. I have prayed your specific requests and have high hopes this procedure will go smoothly and recovery will be easier on sweet Ashby.

  66. Rebecca Jo says

    Thanks for the laugh at the end… needed that. My heart gets so heavy thinking what that sweet girl has to go through.
    Lifting up prayers today for her in this & for your momma’s heart!!!

  67. Jaren says

    Prayers for sweet Ashby today. I am always so inspired by her, and today in particular, I am inspired by your strength to hear God’s call and open yourself up to this path for the good of another. It’s what we are here on this Earth for. You are helping God do his work. Trust in that, and he will give you the strength and peace you need.
    Praying, praying, praying!!

  69. Melissa says

    Stopping to pray right now for precious Ashby and for all of you today. What a sweet friend she has in Bowen…I can just hear that conversation xo

  70. Paula says

    Praying for sweet Ashby. Prayers for her peace of mind. Only 5 is tough to completely understand, but I pray God gives her the comfort she needs and is capable of understanding. Like the “poop” juice. He is all ready working.
    I pray she wakes up feel well.
    I pray God gives the doctors the ability to see any unforeseen problems & abilities to remove them.
    I pray for you & Andrew. For the peace that surpasses all understanding!

  71. Kelly says

    Thank you for sharing those prayer requests. It’s so helpful to be able to pray specifically for your needs. You and your sweet, brave girl will be in my thoughts and prayers today!

  73. Carly says

    Prayers for your sweet girl! I, too, have a medically fragile little one, and I COMPLETELY understand your fear. We haven’t done a procedure with her in 3 years, and while I am thankful, I also could live in dread fear of something happening to her if I let myself. Big hugs and prayers for peace over your heart, Mama.

  75. Kay says

    My Mom heart hurts for you. It’s so hard to watch our kids hurt. We would love to take their place ❤️ Praying Ashby has no side effects today and as little pain as possible.

  76. Ahsia says

    Praying for Ashby and your family. Being a mom of a child with special needs is tough sometimes, but definitely worth it. My daughter amazes me every day. Praying the procedure is successful and recovery is smooth.

  78. Meghan says

    Saying prayers for sweet Ashby and you this morning! I work as a nurse in the preop department at the children’s hospital in Fort Worth, and if Ashby doesn’t like the “silly juice” she definitely doesn’t have to have it! For our kiddos that don’t like/want “silly juice” we give them the option to go back to surgery while playing games on an iPad. It helps distract them without making them take the silly juice. Our child life specialist accompanies them just in case they get nervous, and walks them through everything that is going to happen, and stays until they are asleep! Just an option that you could ask for next time as away to avoid the silly juice! 🙂

    • Melissa says

      ^Such great advice for all of us.
      She may not have your features (eyes, hair, etc), but it seems she has your inherited your matter of fact personality and voice: “listen, Bowen.”

      I don’t know if you’ve noticed this, but I love it 🙂

  83. Kelly says

    Prayers for your sweet baby and for your whole family. So NOT easy but I do love hearing her “take” on it. And it’s realky nice she has her buddy to listen and commiserate with her about her fears and thoughts. God bless her.

  84. Rachel says

    Praying for Ashby and yall today. I hope she has an easier recovery this time around.

  85. Liz says

    Shay, praying right now for each of you and for each specific thing you have mentioned. Praying for your heart because a mama’s heart has to be strong but it hurts the most. Praying that sweet Ashby would have no side effects at all. In Jesus name I pray. Let me know if you need anything this weekend. I know you have lots of support but just let me know.

  86. Karen says

    Sending many prayers for all of you today! Certainly puts life in perspective…blessings on you all!

  87. Rebecca says

    Oh her precious baby heart! Prayers for her, the medical staff and all of the family. And little Bowen who obviously is totally invested. Bless them.

  89. DANIELLE K RIGG says

    Prayers & Blessings to Ashby & your entire family! What an amazing little girl she is. Brave does not even begin to describe her courage that she has. I love the conversation you ended the blog on, the honesty & innocence of kids. My prayers are with you today and every day.

  90. Ronda Petrin says

    Hi Shay,

    God Bless little Ashby! I have had 12 Breast Cancer-related surgeries over a period of 6 years, I know that is less frequent than Ashby, and she will have many more it seems. As an Adult, I understand and know what to expect, etc. But as a child, it has to be so much harder! She is a trooper and I understand that worrying mama heart with all of your questions.

    On the nausea thing, do they “patch” her? I got very sick after a surgical procedure years ago and now they use the scopolamine patches on me – essentially the ones they use for seasickness. It helps so much! They also use an acid reducer and something else I can’t remember right now. But I’m sure your anesthesiologists would and do know. Continued prayers for your family!

  92. Dee says

    Praying for Ashby and you. In addition to the prayers you requested, I have another one for her: that if she so chooses, she grows to be a doctor herself. May her difficult experiences be a source of strength more than of sorrow. God be with her and protect her always.

  94. Esther Ra Park says

    Praying for you Shay and Ashby! What a brave little girl she is. Long time reader here and sending you hugs, prayers, and His comfort from Philly. <3

  95. Allison says

    Praying for sweet little Ashby today and for you too Mama. She certainly is a brave little girl. ?❤️

  99. Melanie says

    Prayers for you and Ashby and your whole family during and after this procedure. I know that you know that the Lord is in control. I just can’t imagine going through all of this without the Lord!! He trusts us (Moms and Dads) with these precious babies and we trust Him to help us raise and care for them!

  101. Angie says

    Sending prayers for sweet Ashby and her mamma this morning. She is so blessed to have you, Shay ♥

  104. Lindsay D. says

    Prayers for your sweet little girl!! Ashby is one of the most beautiful girls in the whole world!! Light just radiates from her!! For your fear regarding the blood clots and aneurysms my favorite scripture is from Proverbs 3:5, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”

  105. Darcy Sexson says

    Praying! For skilled doctors and nurses, pain management and the best recovery possible.

  106. Elisabeth says

    Hi, I’m Elisabeth, from Alabama, but currently serving in Senegal, West Africa. I’ve been reading your blog for a year or so now and love it. I just wanted to say that I just shared your prayer request for Ashby with my Bible Study ladies and we had a time of prayer for her. I know I don’t know you, past reading your blog, but your girl’s story has been on my mind a lot recently. I’ve been praying for her and will continue to do so. And I’ll be praying for your heart as well, as you’re waiting and also wading through the What Ifs…

  108. Faye says

    Praying for your sweet girl. I love knowing that there are probably hundreds/thousands of other people who read this, didn’t post, but have prayed as well. Thinking of you all. Hugs!

  109. Sarah MacDonald says

    Prayers from Canada! And thank you for including that little conversation, you can see her sweet little personality in it. May God bless all of the Shulls today.

  112. Lisa Hewett says

    Thank you for giving these updates on Ashby and giving us specifics on how and what we can pray for her:) Prayers for that brave, beautiful, precious girl……and for all of your family during her surgery and recovery.

  115. Anna says

    Praying for you all! Ashby is SO fortunate to have you for her mom! Y’all have been such an inspiration to us!

  116. Jill says

    Praying for your sweet girl, your precious mama heart and the rest of your family❤️

    10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

  117. faith heimbrodt says

    I am praying for your sweet little girl. This post has me in tears and my heart breaks that she has to go through so much. I am looking at my hands right now and I never paid much attention to them and all that they do, I won’t be taking them for granted anymore. I believe God worked his magic in bringing you to her and her to you. I don’t even want to think of what her outcome could have been had she not become part of your beautiful family. God bless you all today and you are in my prayers.

  118. Julie says

    Prayers for you all, and especially Ashby! This sounds so hard! But hope all will go very well today. Hang in there!

  119. Jessica says

    My family had that “what if” conversation this weekend. My parents sweet next door neighbors adopted a precious girl from China almost 2 years ago. As we were out talking and playing in their driveway on Easter the same “what if” question hit me hard. Adoption is truly amazing! Praying for the millions out there in need of a loving family and those who are waiting to answer the call.

    Prayers for your sweet Ashby today!!! Prayers for the doctors and her medical team, for Ashby’s nerves and her recovery. Praying for you too!!

  121. Steph F. says

    Oh my goodness, I cried and laughed (tastes like poop!) for that sweet girl of yours! She is a doll. Lots of prayers for Ashby.

  123. Lori says

    Prayers from Georgia. I’ve never met Ashby, but she sounds like a warrior princess. May God comfort and help her through the procedure and the following days. May God bless you and Andrew for loving and providing for this precious little girl. Lifting you all up in prayer!

  125. Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says

    Oh this just wrecked me. I will be praying all day for that precious girl. And you, friend. I know as a mom you just want to be able to take away all that pain and fix it all for your baby girl and to not be able to is so heartbreaking. And frustrating. Big big big hugs. xoxo

  126. Jo Biddick says

    Praying each prayer point you’ve requested for precious Ashby. Also praying peace, strength and wisdom for you and Andrew as you walk this journey with Ashby. xxx

  127. Kim Winardi says

    Praying for dear sweet Ashby this morning and for you too Shay (and the rest of the family too)! Sending you all love from Toronto <3

  128. Kathy L says

    Praying for brave, sweet Ashby and your family as you support one another after her 12th procedure. Keeping all of your specific prayer requests above on my heart this morning and lifting them up to God. I’m so thankful you all adopted Ashby!

  129. Tamara R. says

    Oh Shay, my mama heart is hurting for you. Praying for sweet Ashby and for you.

  130. GAIL says

    In all honesty, I’m not particularly religious, but this post absolutely floored me. I woke up last night thinking of her. I’m at work right now reading this and just about started crying. I have no idea why your sweet girl would randomly pop into my head at 2:15 this morning. I’ve been going through some nasty back/neck problems for the past two months, but I feel so selfish in complaining about my pain, when this brave girl has to go through these procedures. In my thoughts always.

  132. Sarah says

    Sweet Ashby is so strong and smart at her young age! Prayers for a successful procedure and speedy recovery. Sending love your way, Shull Family!

  133. Lindsey says

    Praying for your sweet Ashby and for you mama. Nothing has brought me to my knees like my children. Ashby often reminds me of my oldest in the stories you share of her and the spark I see in the pictures you post of her. 🙂

  134. Elizabeth says

    Sending love and saying a prayer for Ashby!! She is such a beautiful girl inside and out.

  137. Alex says

    I cannot imagine how hard it is to see your child hurt or suffering. My song broke his collarbone a few months ago and that broke my heart! (He’s 18 months.) Thinking about you and your family today. Try to focus on the now and not the years from now. Who knows what technology will be available at that time.

    Best of luck today and hoping for the best possible recovery for your little one.

  139. Abby's mom says

    Just a thought…. The “loopy poopy” medicine she is given before surgery might be Versed. Versed can cause multiple issues for some people when they’re waking up postoperative. We experienced that with our daughter several times, and when they discontinued using the Versed prior to surgery, she was a completely different kid in the post op! Just another thing to consider for that brave little girl!

  141. Rebecca Purdie says

    Praying everything will be okay. She is a beautiful little girl.
    Stay strong and know with God all things are possible.

  142. Chris says

    I am praying for that sweet, sensitive girl today! She is just precious! God has blessed her in so many ways already and I am sure He has more in store for this angel. I can’t even imagine your Mama’s heart through this and I ask God to give you an extra measure of comfort and wisdom walking through these surgeries. You are such a great family for Ashby, God put her in just the right one. Love and hugs!

  144. DG says

    Sending you all the love and prayers for a speedy and painless recovery.
    “Love knows no reason, no boundaries, no distance. It has a sole intention of bringing people together to a time called forever – Unknown”

  146. Julie says

    praying for sweet Ashby this morning and for you. praying she has a speedy recovery and no vomiting and pain!
    she is such a BRAVE girl!!!

  147. Alina says

    I just prayed here at work as I read this and will continue to pray for all of the requests you listed!

  150. Anne says

    Sending so much love to Ashby and the rest of the Shull family today. Ashby’s strength continues to amaze me.

  154. Melissa says

    Above, Amy Heinl, wrote out such a sweet prayer… I prayed that same prayer today for Ashby.
    Thinking of your family today in East Texas.

  155. Brandi says

    Praying for sweet Ashby! She is so strong and brave. Also praying for you and the rest of your family!

  156. Alexis deZayas says

    Praying for sweet sweet Ashby this morning. She is a fighter, and God is holding her in his hand as she fights through this!

  160. Sara mayo says

    Shay thank you so much for sharing. I praise God she has you as a mama?. Your story breaks my heart. You are an amazing warrior of God. Stay strong and close to him. Oh how I pray that she be 100% healed. God can do anything!!!

  161. Kathy says

    Sending prayers today for your family and sweet Ashby! It is so wonderful that God brought her into your family.

  164. Jenine says

    Praying for a successful surgery & speedy recovery for Ashby and comfort & peace for you and your family during this time.

  165. Dana says

    Praying for all of you and sweet Ashby! I can only imagine how nasty the poop medicine is. I have to take something before my c-sections (all 6 were born via c-section!) and it is HORRIBLE! It’s supposed to settle your stomach. I wonder if it’s mixed in with her silly juice?! I imagine they would give her something for the vomiting if they could, right? I started vomiting after a c-section once and they were able to make it stop right away. I’m so sorry you guys are going through this, but also so thankful that she is getting the care she needs.

  166. Becky says

    Ashby will be in my prayers throughout today. My oldest daughter also has a problem with anesthesia.
    One of my memories was when my son in law and I took her for a surgery several years ago. There were a number of older patients and soon everyone was coming back into recovery. All these sweet old ladies were chatting away and then comes our Dryscha. She looked like a grey, wet cloth. My son in law looked at her in horror! Of course she proceeded to get sick and I reminded him of in sickness and in health…..Ashby is a courageous young lady. You will always be a mama. Being a mama is harder some days than others. Praying!

  167. Dianna says

    I love the conversation between Ashby and Bowen. What a special relationship they have! And we count sleeps in our house too! I love that!

  168. Amanda says

    Praying hard for sweet Ashby, all of you, and her doctors!! That little girl is quite the inspiration and I know I personally strive to be as brave as she is! <3

  169. Raquel Whatley says

    Lord, I pray for little Ashby and ask for your wondrous healing, make the doctors marvel at her improvement. Please allow Ashby to wake up rested and feeling comfortable, please spare her any sickness afterward. Please provide supernatural courage and faith to the Shull family. Please speak to them and let them know you have never left their side and finally comfort them and give them rest. In Your name heavenly Jesus, Amen.. Let us know how Ashby is doing and know we are all with you..

  170. Laura says

    Having been a pediatric patient of GI problems, I sympathize with Ashby’s hate for the “silly juice”. Let me tell ya…that stuff does NOT taste good lol. I used to have them give me a wet wash cloth and I’d wipe my tongue after I had to take the silly juice.

    Prayers for her.
    If she’s at Dallas Children’s…and ever encounters Dr.”FG” as they call him (anesthesiology)…he’s the best.

  171. Stephanie Snyder says

    Praying for your sweet girl and your entire family. She is so brave and strong, and I cannot imagine what your heart goes through each time she has a procedure. I can’t imagine, and am sending up as much positive energy, hope, good thoughts, strength and wisdom to the surgeons, and great results for your girl.

  172. Britt Hensley says

    Oh your beautiful, brave girl❤️❤️❤️Praying big prayers for y’all today.

  173. Lea Culp says

    Oh, my goodness, do know that I am praying for precious Ashby and for you. There is just no hurt like that of our hearts when our child is hurting, physically ,emotionally or spiritually. May everything go as smoothly as possible and may the Lord give you the peace and comfort that only HE can give during times like this. Blessings abundant!

  175. Emily says

    Your pictures and stories of sweet Ashby always make me smile. Saying extra prayers for her today, and for her courageous mama!

  177. Kelly says

    I will be praying for you and your precious girl today and for the doctors working on her! When my son got sick from anesthesia the doctor suggested giving him a piece of white bread with butter & sugar on it to stop the vomiting and it worked like a charm. Something about the combination of the bread, the fat from the butter and the sugar neutralize the stomach acids.

  178. Olivia says

    Aww I’m so sorry she has to go through all this. I know this might seem silly, but when I worked at the hospital we used to put glitter on the casts (bring some glitter glue and rub it evenly on both hands. Then rub your hands all over the cast.) It’s small things like this that Ashby might appreciate!

  179. Michele McFadden says

    Keeping sweet Ashby in my prayers and counting on God to let her feel his presence when she is afraid and frustrated. And so grateful she has her good friend Bowen who she can confide in. Stay strong momma, it’s a tough job but you do it with a grace that I admire.

  180. Shelby Elyse Taylor says

    Going before the Lord right now on Ashby’s behalf. Praying for a perfect procedure, no terrible side effects after, and that her precious heart and child life faith would be protected. Above all else – praying for complete healing in Jesus name! Your sweet girl is so tough – your posts about her bring me to tears. Jesus – stay near. Love you Shulls!

  181. Liz THORSON says

    Shay, you are such a wonderful mother to sweet, sweet Ashby. Lump in my throat, tears in my eyes, heartbroken for what Ashby has to endure, but so thankful she is you and Andrew’s daughter and has been given the gift of the best life! I am so hoping the recovery isn’t as hard on her dear body and that the silly juice isn’t as horrible a trauma for Ashby today. Love and thoughts of the best possible outcome today.???

  182. Karen Ivy says

    Praying now, Shay!! Oh my, how this must be so hard, but how great that you all have each other and the Lord to rely on… So much love. Hoping for good updates on sweet Ashby!

  183. Shannon L says

    Praying for your sweet, precious Ashby – and for you! God has a very special plan for her, and He will not waste these incredible challenges she is going through. Praying for quick recovery for her and that she will realize the importance of these treatments; and for the Holy Spirit to surround you with the peace that passes understanding.

  185. Bri says

    I cannot believe how strong this little five year old is. You had me tearing up. I’m SO impressed & inspired by her. Sending you both so much love & all the positive vibes all the way from DC!

  187. Kristen says

    Prayers for Ashby and rest of the family too! I had my thyroid removed due to cancer and have had 3 more neck surgeries since then, plus a few other procedures and surgeries that require anesthesia. After the first surgery when I was horrifically ill–and let me tell you vomiting after neck surgery is super scary–they changed the kinds of drugs they gave me starting with the second surgery to put me out as well as gave me some strong anti nausea meds in the iv, patches behind my ears and when I woke up gave me even more. I haven’t had nausea or vomiting after surgeries since that first time. Good luck!

  190. Taylor says

    Prayers for sweet Ashby and hoping her pain is minimal and she gets to rest up this weekend. xoxoxo

  191. Emily says

    Praying for Ashby each time she has to have one of her procedures. Asking the Lord to guide the surgeons hands as he helps to bring healing to her body and asking the Lord to touch Ashby’s body with His healing hands. Praying for no pain, no vomiting and a quick recovery in Jesus name. Praying also for you and the rest of the family for peace, encouragement , strength and endurance as your sweet Ashby goes through this again. Blessings to you and your precious family!

  193. Kirsten J says

    Prayers for Princess Ashby!!! Thank you for sharing her with us – my daughter is 18 and soon to leave for college – we discovered you through our love for your brother and all things Bachelor, lol. What started as a release from the pressure of school and sports by watching Bachelor/Bachelorette has turned into an evening ritual for us. Several nights a week I’ll grab the ipad and say “Taylor! enough studying, time for bed!! let’s check in on our favorite families” and we read about you and Narci and Andrea. My girl is a straight A student/athlete and even at 18, I sometimes need to reign her in and make her stop. We love your family, and Ashby is constantly in our prayers. Your stories are a welcome escape for us. Thank you!!!

  195. Kayla Bruce says

    This brought tears to my eyes. Praying for you all from WI. Praying especially for Ashby!

  197. Amanda Sherod says

    Praying for your sweet Ashby, reading this brought me to tears. I hope it goes well for her today!

  199. Sandy Blitch says

    What a blessing and a gift your family has been to Ashby! My prayers will be for doctors, surgeons and all surrounding medical personnel. May God be with all of them and may he guide their hands, their thoughts and actions during this time. You are very strong and such a good Mom, you are Ashby’s cure after her surgery, she just needs for you to hold her when she wakes up! May the peace of Christ be with all of you!????❤️

  201. Jeanie says

    Prayers that all went well this morning and that Ashby is without nausea and pain and has a wonderful weekend. I hope and pray the end result of all these procedures is complete success.

  202. Kathy says

    I am praying for your precious girl, as well as for you mama and family as you all journey through this. Praying that Ashby will not have nausea this time, and that quick healing follows. I have also prayed that, God willing, I carry some of the pain on Ashby’s behalf, so that this can all be more bearable for her.

  203. Debbie says

    All my prayers being sent for Ashby, God is good! May God give her the strength she needs to get through!!!

  204. Catherine says

    I am so glad to have read this post today. My husband and I have felt adoption has been placed on our hearts for a while now and have recently started researching adoption agencies close to us. We have agreed on an agency we would like to work with and today I was supposed to make the arrangements to travel to meet with them. Before I did, I had a conversation with a family member who advised us to be cautious…to take more time and really think about the impact on our family. It scared me. Even though this is a journey we feel God has had us on for a few years already, I questioned whether we should wait longer before making the next step. I thought “Maybe we should wait and pray more about it?” I worried that even after months of prayer that maybe we were rushing things. So thank you for your call to action. We believe God has impressed on us the need to adopt a child and I will trust Him with the rest. After reading your post I called and booked the meeting with the adoption agency. I am praying for Ashby today. May God continue to protect her and encourage her heart.

  205. Barb says

    I agree with the comment above to add a scopaline motion sickness patch to the other anesthesia being used. I would always get sick after surgeries. When I told the anesthesiologist I had terrible motion sickness my whole life he said to wear one of my patches for the surgery too. It works. Haven’t thrown up after a surgery since. Wish I had found out before I was 30.

  206. Anna Jones says

    That precious girl. I hate she has to go through all of that, but so thankful she has y’all and that you are in a city with excellent care for her needs. God definitely would all of that out!! Prayers for recovery this time, and her future health!

  207. Laura K says

    Prayers for darling Ashby. Blessings to you and all adoptive parents who care so much for these precious little people.

  208. Janet says

    Praying for Ashby and family today. Pray the surgery and immediate recovery went well. Pray that her long term recovery goes well with minimal pain. Can they give her something to prevent the vomiting? That has to be hard on her too.

  209. Angela Ellingson says

    Continuing to pray for sweet Ashby. My mama heart almost doesn’t have words. Hugs to you, Shay. So glad you’re her mama.

  210. Lauren says

    Praying that Ashby has an easy recovery and quick. I cannot imagine what your mind and heart go through each time she has surgery. You guys are beasts, and I’m praying that God gives you, Andrew, and Ashby brave mindsets and peace about her future that only He can bring. She’s such a strong kid and you can see it each time you speak about her.

  211. SS says

    Oh, this makes me so sad for her… I can’t imagine how hard it is on you to see her having to go through this. And that she cares about how her hand/arm looks. Thank goodness she has y’all. And, yes, what if you hadn’t given her a family? I can’t even bear to think of those kids who are just kids without a mom and dad. Praying for healing and confidence for her. That she will know she is a child of God and infinite worth. That these procedures will have a miraculous effect. Strength for your family. That you will know and have the right words to comfort and strengthen her. And that people will read Ashby and your story and be inspired to parent other children who need homes.

  212. Heather Newman says

    Prayers to you all. Hope all went smoothly! The “silly juice” story is priceless!!

  213. Kasity J. says

    Praying for both her and the rest of your family. My 3 younger sisters are from China, and one of them has has multiple surgeries on her ear. I can’t imagine what their life would be like if they hadn’t been adopted and were stuck in their orphanages. Even though Your daughter has to go through these surgeries, she has an amazing life because of you.

  214. Tracy says

    Prayers for your girl and for you & Andrew as well. It’s tough seeing our kiddos go through such hard stuff.

  215. Ruth says

    I’m reading this a little late but want you to know that prayers are being sent from Philadelphia! ❤️

  216. Nerine says

    Oh my heart! So sorry for being a day late, but I am sending love and prayers for comfort during recovery! xo

  218. Josie says

    Sending prayers from England ???????

    “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you” Isaiah 43:2

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