Sweet Corbin enjoyed a visit to the beach. We're trying to squeeze as many in as we can before his summer is consumed with surgery. I love this little guy so much. As Matt always says, "I'd fight nations for this kid." It's so true. We're just eternally grateful for all of the kindness and generosity to his ear fund. And guess what? We have reached our goal! There is one more fundraiser event on May 5th. It's a Cinco de Mayo concert in Davis, California. My mom has several colleagues from the hospital who are talented musicians. I can't wait to hear about it and hopefully the proceeds can benefit http://www.smallwondersfoundation.org/

Corbin's surgeon, Dr. Reinisch, and his wife have started this awesome organization. Since its inception so many boys and girls have received beautiful ears :)

We can't wait to show you all Corbin's big,new ear! Stay tuned...

I'm taking more pictures of the Microtia ear to share with Corbin when he's older and this surgery is history. I want him to know how many people were involved in making his new, big, beautiful ear a reality. I am just eternally grateful for all of the support we've received. Isn't this a cute little guy with a cute  "special" ear?  This picture was taken right after his bath. It's easier to see the little ear when his hair is wet. All that shaggy sweet blond hair hides his peanut ear most of the time.

Talk about heartbreaker...

So, after a deflating phone call from Dr. Reinisch's office, I read the "approval" for coverage only to see the fine print in disclosure. They are agreeing to 10% coverage because they believe there are competent plastic surgeons in network who could perform the surgery. Bullocks. So, we have these donations. Thank God! And we'll just bite our thumbs at Tricare and pay for Corbin's surgery with the love of contributors.
I'm a little too optimistic at times; really thought we had won the battle for coverage. Alas, I was naive.
We'll certainly keep everybody posted.

Inspiration!

We consider ourselves to be at our goal! We're at $18, 437.01 as of 7pm March 1st.

A huge thank you to everybody who contributed. We're not staring down a big number now, and a tremendous burden has been lifted. I also have hope and am inclined to believe that this third appeal will be successful. When I spoke to a representative today, Corbin's referral had been at the med board for processing and it had been flagged in the system as "approved" for some coverage. We aren't sure exactly what percentage, but know this: if there are any funds left in this ear account, we are giving it to other pediatric patients who are specifically undergoing Microtia or Hemifacial Microsomia reconstructive surgeries. I have NEVER been as impressed with people in my life as I have in seeing how quickly complete strangers will give to a child in need. Paying it forward will be no problem in our book. In fact, I'm hoping we are able to give a significant gift to one of the following foundations: http://www.letthemhear.org/     or   http://www.littlebabyface.org/

Hallelujah!!!!!! Now just say some prayers for strength in my heart/mind as Corbin faces a major surgery this July. Updates to follow....