A few hours ago, the official profile of “7 Little Johnstons” published a photograph of Alex Johnston on a hospital bed, with a convalescent expression.

“He’s out & doing well!”, the caption said. “Surgery went so-so. Ear drums are in pretty bad shape, so tube placement was iffy. Here’s to hoping they heal and stay in!”

Remembering that Alex is 14 years old and, like his sister Emma, is finishing elementary school.