We made it to FL unscathed, albeit exhausted. We spent many an hour at the hospital and clinic today going through the pre-op ritual, which always entails a lot of waiting, a lot of questions, and a lot of crying (mostly from Annie, but um, pass the tissues).
She was actually a champ for the better part of the day, charming passer-byers with her smile and zest for life. It was only after they started digging around in her vein (seriously) trying to get blood. The nurse tried to tell me that she was crying because she was being restrained, not because it was hurting. Are you kidding me? Anyway, she finally passed out on me from sheer exhaustion and took a power nap which got her through the rest of the long day in a really good mood.
We are staying at a house that is similar to the Ronald McDonald House, so we are surrounded by fellow patients of Dr. Paley's, which is wonderful. I am amazed at what some of these kids have gone through, yet seem so full of life and resilience. All of the other kids here (there are 9 other families) have lower extremity issues, most of which are profound. You would not believe how these kids can still run around like everything is fine. They have been to hell and back with surgery after surgery and endless hours of daily, painful therapy. It's very humbling. Truly it is. And amazing. These are some of the most beautiful children I have ever met.
We didn't realize that Annie would also be having a muscle transfer done on each thumb to finish out the pollicization process. We knew she *might* have to have that done, but I suppose we just kind of forgot about it since her thumb use is so awesome. Anyway, Dr. Paley explained how much additional function it should add, so it makes sense to have it done while he is already in there. She will be under for about 4 very long hours tomorrow. Glad she is up first!
Thanks for the continued prayers and well wishes....they really mean a lot and keep me going!
XOXO,
J
Aw, poor Annie :( I'm a hard stick and they often have to dig and it hurts :( why do nurses try to pretend otherwise? Makes me fantasize about kicking them :p
ReplyDeleteI hope tomorrow goes smoothly and Annie has a good recovery!
Our hearts and our minds are there with you and we'll be praying that Annie has a great day tomorrow. These procedures will be so helpful for her future. You and Stephen, your mom, and your aunts are to be revered for all the sacrifices you have made on behalf of your sweet and lovely little angel. Bless you all. And bless Alex, for he, too, is giving for Annie's benefit.
ReplyDeleteWe're always Mimi and Papa.