Many of you have asked for updates on the status of Braveheart, aka Baby Romee, so I decided to post another blog, which is also my way of thanking you for all the love and support, the care and concern, and the prayers you have given to me and my family.
Braveheart, now 5 months old, is thriving, growing fast, full of curiosity, frequent smiles, and has a great sense of humor! She sees the cardiologist in Reno every 3 weeks for a checkup and an echocardiogram which is an ultrasound of the heart. In a recent visit, the echocardiogram showed some signs of blockage of the pulmonary artery that was constructed from cadaver tissue shortly after birth. At some point in the near future, this problem needs to be addressed, which usually means a second open heart surgery, to our dismay. But, the cardiologist said that it might be possible to replace that vessel by catheterization which would be a big relief because it would mean a quick recovery. Danni and Barrett intend to bring Romee back to the Stanford Children’s Hospital soon in order for Romee to be evaluated and a decision made about her treatment.
I hope you enjoy the photos of my recent visit. There were around 100 photos to choose from, making it difficult to decide which to choose. I didn’t want to overwhelm you with too much to look at.
Baby Romee is fast asleep in the arms of a large, white-haired man in a red suit with white gloves.
The four white-clad angels—Gramma Denise in the middle holding Baby Romee, Aunt Nikki on the left, and Momma Danni on the right. Behind them is a gigantic Christmas tree, felled in the forest in an area that required a permit.
“Christmas is so much fun!”
Romee found the ornaments on the tree fascinating.
My neighbor’s daughter parted with her 23 inch penguin to give to Romee. The penguin’s mother is 36 inches tall, but remained at home, waiting to be reunited with her daughter when Romee comes to Santa Fe to visit her Gramma Rikki.
Romee is not too sure about this creature that just stands and stares. She keeps her eye on what looks like a long, pointed nose.
The two blissful grandmothers
I never imagined the immense joy I would feel around my grandchild.
“Yay!! We get to go outside.”
We’re all set to go on our walk around the beautiful Truckee area.
The Truckee River is right below Barrett and Danni’s house, a short walk away. It flows from nearby Lake Tahoe. The area is stunning, with towering mountains in all directions and lakes dotting the landscape. One afternoon we took the gondola up to the top of one of the ski areas and soaked in the magnificent views that surrounded us.
Nearby Lake Donner during a snowy winter last year.
The town of Truckee looks like it’s from another century, quaint and charming.
It’s easy to forget that one is in the 21st century.
Mainstreet
Momma and baby in twin outfits.
“Time to go on another trip somewhere. I can’t wait!”
We went bowling one afternoon. Romee wore headphones to keep out the loud noises in the bowling ally.
“What bliss!”
“I’m all clean now.”
Michael and Denise, adoring grandparents and sterling human beings—friends for life. I feel so fortunate.
Pure love
“Bye guys! I’m off to get some sun. Thanks for all your care and concern. It makes a big difference in my life. See you next time around.”
Your prayers are always welcomed and very much appreciated. I am certain that those prayers are making a difference.
Sending love and many blessings to all of you,
Erica/Gramma Rikki
Hi Erica, I just finished reading your second memoir, From Mountains to Medicine. Well written and very exciting! I wonder if you have incorporated any of your uncle’s treatments (fasting, raw foods) into your medical practice or life. Hope to see you soon so I can ask this in person.
Yes, I certainly have. Uncle Ernst has been a huge inspiration in my life. I don’t recommend prolonged fasting anymore because too many toxins release at once and can make people feel really sick. Our world is way more toxic than is was over 50 years ago when I did the 15 day fast. I’m so glad you enjoyed the book, Mary Ray!! Love and hugs, Erica
You always take us along on your adventures across the globe and weave a wonderful story. The joyous journey of being a grandmother is truly an amazing adventure. Christmas with the grandbaby is pure joy!
You know the feeling, Perri. How many grandchildren do you have? I think of you often and admire how you cope with all your challenges. Much love, Erica
How thrilling to read your update and savor each and every photo. Each one of you radiates luminosity. How very precious to be part of her story and your story with each entry. Prayers abound from so many who send love to you all. Looking forward to being with you again next year! Love, Laura
How lovely to hear from you, Laura. I have happy memories of our time together. I hope you are thriving. Love, Erica
Thank you so much, dear Erica, for these heart warming photos and the report of the health of your granddaughter. Your photos captured so much love she is surrounded and Romee is adorable! What a blessing!
Wish you and your family a very good New Year, a year filled with health and joy. Much love, Traude
Thank you so much for your kind words and good wishes, Traude!! I’m wondering where you’ll be going for your next big hiking adventure. Sending you much love, Erica
I just have been in Japan walking the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage. However, the hiking was only part of my trip, a lot of cultural visits – also interesting. The next hiking might be in the Austrian Alps or walking the St. Michaels’ pilgrimage path in southern italy….I let the spirit guide me…. Much love to you, dear Erica!
How wonderful! I’m so envious!! Much love always, Erica
Thank you for sharing your joyous Christmas. The bond of love is palpable.
May Romee’s treatment go smoothly. Prayers being sent for her and all her family.
Amen! Thank you so much for your good wishes, Jane. I think about you a lot and wonder how you’re doing. Sending much love and healing thoughts. Erica
Baby Romee is beautiful, adorable, and with so many fascinating expressions. At times, she’s just cute and curious but then she can seem so mature and profound. So happy for you, dear grandmama! Thank you so much for sharing. Blessings for Romee, and continual good news and health. Happy New Year! Sending love, Baksim
Yes, I have noticed the same expressions in Romee–sometimes simply cute and other times mature and profound. She is an amazing spirit. But, maybe all grandmothers feel this way about their grandchildren. Much love and many blessings, dear Baksim.
Dear Erica,
I am so grateful that you include us in your life and share these amazing experiences with your granddaughter and family . . .so that we, too, can have our hearts touched deeply!! I can feel all the love that surrounds Romee as I see each photograph of her and those that love her. Sending you my hugs, blessings, and love!! And continuing prayers for Romee and the family!
Love,
Rebekkah
Aw! Such a beautiful comment. I so appreciate your words of love and support. Much love, E
Erica,
Absolutely pure love and joy shining from Romee’s strong spirit to all the lives she touches. So happy for you and your sweet young family and in-laws to share this holiday time.
Much to celebrate with the new year upon us.
Thank you for sharing the abounding hope, love and joy your wee granddaughter embodies.
Love to you, Sara
Happy New Year!
Love always,
Sara
Thank you, dear Sara! Yes, so much love and joy sparked by Romee’s strong spirit. We are so grateful. I look forward to seeing you when you’re back in Santa Fe. Much love always, Erica
Welcome home Erika…we thank you for all your photos a d updates on Braveheart…
Seeing you there with such joy, was wondrous!!! Holding your granddaughter …she is a doll for sure!!
Her bright wide open eyes, say so much….
So all our prayers will continue also…..she chose the right parents and famiky to love her so
Tenderly and willing to always be there for her.
We have read all your messages and enjoyed all the support for your famiky…
Go Braveheart go, sweet girl, with such a huge loving heart herself!
All our love, Di and Erik
Thank you so much for your beautiful words. I remember seeing the photos with the immense joy you emanated when you were around your granddaughter. I am grateful for all the love and support you have given me–and all the prayers. With much love and gratitude, Erica
Romee is so adorable and the radiant smiles of joy to the faces of her family. I’m so glad you are enjoying a granddaughter. I pray for her safety as they approach the PA in the best way. How fortunate to have a team of doctors on top of things. Happy New Year Erica!
How lovely to hear from you, Karen. You certainly know what it’s like to be a grandmother! Thank you so much for your prayers. They mean a lot to me. Sending you much love, dear Karen.
A perfectly beautiful baby ! Wow! She looks alert and amused and wise already! Everyone will fall in love at first sight. Much love to her, her wonderful grandma, Erica, and the rest of the family who I’ve not yet met.
Thank you, Bette. I’m so touched by your kind words. Sending you much love, Erica
What a gift is this gorgeous baby!!!!
Thank you for sharing the love, the miracle, and the joy.
Wishing you all the joy you can stand.
Thank you so much for those good wishes, Teresa!!! Much love, E
Thanks for the update, Erica and Happy New Year to the whole family. In my work I learn a lot from clients and have recently found out that Medtronic makes amazing devices that can be inserted in arteries with minimal invasion to the body. Looking forward to the next update.
How wonderful to hear from you!!! I often wonder how you are doing with your new life back in Europe.Thanks for that valuable information about Medtronic. I will certainly look into it. Sending love and best wishes.
I had such joy looking at every single picture and reading all your words dear Erica. This is the most extraordinarily beautiful bright joyful little girl! And Danni, Barrett, you and her other grandparents are also radiant. What a gorgeous family so full of light and love.
You are also blessed by each other and especially by baby Rome’s.
I put my finger on her little heart and said a prayer that she will grow to be a joyful healthy wonderful older woman just like her grandmother Rickie, making a difference in the world and sharing her light. May it be so.
Thank you for sharing your joy and your family with us. With love, Christine
Thank you so much, dear Christine. I so appreciate your kind word and am grateful for your prayer. Much love always, Erica
Such joy all around. So happy for each of you!
Thank you, dear Susan. i miss you and think of you and your family from time to time, wishing you good health and happiness–in spite of it all! Much love to you. Erica
Your joy exudes from every photo – so wonderful to see you so fulfilled with happiness. And what a charmer
baby Romee is – lucky girl to have so many wonderful loving family to help her through. And to have such a brilliant dr. for her grandmother. Sending lots of healing prayers and strength & courage for you all as well. I’ll keep the prayers coming. Much Love to you, Erica!
Thank you for those kind words, Kaye. And a special thank you for your continuing prayers. Much love, Erica
Very nice….best to you and your family
Grazie Mille, cara Linda!
What a miracle, thank you so much for sharing this!!
Thanks, Sharon!!
Thanks so much for sharing the photos and the updates on Romee. She is a beautiful , joyful baby and I love seeing you so happy!!
I will keep you all in my prayers ❤️
Thanks so much, dear Grace! You certainly understand how I feel. Much love, Erica
Dear Gramma Rikki,
Thanks so much for sharing these wonderful photos and the great joy that Baby Romee brings. Everyone’s joy is so palpable in these photos. She is blessed to have such a wonderful family. I also appreciate your openess regarding her health and healing journey. 😊👍🏻🙏🏻. Hugs, Satya
Thank you, Gramma Satya!! You understand those feelings. Much love and warm hugs, Erica
Pure love exudes from each photo. I too am grandma to 5 month Paloma .. I feel your joys and worries…may baby Romme Braveheart be well ♥️
Thank you so much, Margaret. It’s so nice to hear from you. Love, Erica
I’m just basking in the glow of seeing your heart filled with such joy. I believe she’s as gorgeous as you are happy 🙂 Especially loved the picture of her fascinated by the ornament.
Much love,
Lauren
Aw! That’s so sweet of you, Lauren. Thanks for those good wishes. Much love, Erica
What pure joy it is to see these photos! She is beautiful and strong! Thank you so much for keeping us all in the loop. I pray her next surgery will be her last! Blessings for a happy and healthy New Year! 😘😘😘
Thank you so much, Kelly!!!
thanks so much for shaaring, Erica, she looks so cute too and you look so happy
Thank you, Marcia. I think of you often and send you lots of good wishes. Love, Erica
Erica, Thanks for sending these happy photos of family love and joy. May all go well for the future procedure!
Thank you for those good wishes, Marty!! Love, Erica
So much love in these photos! What a beautiful being she is! Thank you for sharing with us.
Thank you, Susan. So nice to hear from you. Lots of warm wishes, Erica
Romee beams such cheer and beauty in these photos. Thank you for the update, I was about to bug you to please send photos and more news. How wonderful to live in this old fashioned town but near the top medical care. Take care and much love sent your way. Carol
So nice to hear from you, Carol. I think of you often and happy that you found a place to live that you enjoy. Much love, Erica
Beautiful heartwarming story! Thank you for sharing all these amazing photos of your visit with the miracle thriving one and your gorgeous family in a beautiful setting. I know from my sisters ~ being a gramma is the best thing ever. Enjoy!
Peace, blessings and love ~
Thanks so much, Randy! I often wonder how you are doing and send you telepathically many good wishes. Love, Erica
Dear Erica
I can feel the love emanating from these beautiful photos. Dear little Romee looks so happy and healthy and full of fun!
She is always in my healing prayers and I know that collective prayers do make a huge difference.
With love from Hermina UK
What a lovely surprise to hear from you, Hermina–all the way from the UK!! I am deeply grateful for your prayers. Thank you so much. Love, Erica
The best!! I am over joyed to see how she is doing! Dona
Thank you so much, Donna!! I think of you a lot and hope you are thriving in spite of it all. Much love, ERica
What a beautiful family — all of you! So uplifting to see the joy that Braveheart embodies and shares. 💖 I enjoyed seeing the happy photos! Prayers for the successful outcome of her next procedure. Blessings to all!
Thank you so much for your kind words and your prayers. They mean a lot to me. Much love, Erica
Thank you sooooo much! The pics gave a lift from my post Xmas downies! So beautiful , it’s what Xmas is all about!
Amen! So true what you say about Christmas. Many blessings, Erica
Is is okay to have tears streaming down my face? These photos of little Braveheart and all her wonderful family, Danni, Barrett, Michael, Denise, Nikki and Gramma Rikki have touched me so much! There is so much love is in your hearts. And the Baby UGG boots, the sunglasses… So adorable! Romee is now a Rock Star! Sending much love and many prayers for Romee and your entire family.
Thank you so much for those kind words, Patty. I always love reading what you have to say. Warm hugs, Erica
Love the pictures, especially the first one with you in it.
Thank you, Lynn. I’m so happy you enjoyed the photos. I think of you fondly. Love, Erica
A lovely result and positive story, Erica. Beautiful uplifting photos and wonderful scenery as well 🦋🌈
thanks so much, Lynn!
Romee is such a precious little girl and I’m so happy to see your wonderful photos of you and her family. Thank you ❣️
How nice to hear from you, Sue. I appreciate your comment. I think of you fondly. Love, Erica
Oh… how wonderful to read she is doing so well and thank you for sharing the pictures. Blessings to you in the New Year and my you continue to enjoy your family.
How lovely to hear from you. I often wonder how you are enjoying your new life in Costa Rica. Much love, Erica
So happy about the abundance of love and that Romee has such incredible support and health care team!!! Prayers continue❤️❤️❤️🙏🏽❤️❤️❤️
I am grateful for your prayers. They mean so much to me.
Beauty all around: baby, family, Truckee country.
Blessings to all
Thank you, Dominique!! I so appreciate your comment. With love, Erica
Im following the unfolding story here. beauty all around and love in your hearts. This is also a real life challenge, and Im alert to that too. Jan
I so appreciate your comment and you understanding the full picture of what we’re facing. I think of you fondly, Love, ERica
Happy happy holidays! It is an honor to hold you all in daily prayer. Thank you for sharing Erica. It is so heart-filling to see you so joyful. So much love, Micaela
Thank you, dear Micaela!!
These photos are adorable. So glad she is surrounded by so much love. Hoping everyone has a healthy and happy New Year and baby Romee continues to thrive. So happy for all of you!
I’m grateful for your good wishes, Sandi. You know what it’s like being a grandmother! Love, Erica
Thank you, thank you, thank you. Have had her on my mind a lot. Pure joy.
I so appreciate your love and kindness, Joan!
Thank you for the beautiful update Erica!
So glad to see that everyone is flourishing.
Thank you so much, Mary!
Sending heaps of Love your family’s direction!
Thank you, James!
These are heartwarming photos!
Are you in California? I am here through January. We could have a Grandmother rendezvous. Much love, Leah
I just got home to Santa Fe. Let’s get together when you return from California. Much love, Erica
Great pictures Rickie!
What a beautiful winning smile on baby Romee!
Thank you, Vreni!
Thrilled to hear about this miraculous family holiday, dearest Erica💜❤️❤️🔥. Can’t wait to hear more when you’re back home… There’s nothing like being a grandmama ❣️🙏🏻😍. Being dear friends is a good placeholder 🌟 love you, dearest Rickie