I've been focusing on the "now" as in, what needs to happen next, all day. Having said that, I feel unfocused and my mind is racing from what's on my to do list to what could happen next month. I wonder and worry about Avery, Zach and Eric. I feel fuzzy, maybe I'm getting sick.
I'm ready for Avery to have her last open heart surgery. I'm not sure that I'm ready for the recovery stage though. You have to take the whole package though; the beginning and the end. We've had a nice break from hospital stays and mentally we've pushed that part aside. I feel bettered prepared for this than for the other surgeries, but you just never know how it will ride. Despite some of my misgivings, I am confident that everything will go well, and if not, it will work out in the end.
In talking to a nurse today, she said the average stay for a fontan is 2 weeks or a little less (depending on when the chest tubes stop draining). I remember seeing little kids 2-3 walking around in socks and gowns with a parent pushing the i.v. pole after them, trying to keep up.:)
In this surgery, did I mention it was the last, they will route the unoxygenated blood coming from below the heart, directly to the lungs, bypassing the heart. In the end, her heart will only pump the oxygenated blood to her body and the unoxygenated blood will just flow to the lungs. Cool, huh. See, you only need half a heart, really (and a good surgeon).
We couldn't do this if it weren't for the help and support of our family and friends. THANK YOU!
April 1st 8:30 am. Please pray for Avery!
9 comments:
renae!!! I can't believe that it's all happening so soon! We'll make sure and say lots of prayers and we'll fast this weekend for you guys! And PLEASE let me help in whatever ways that I can. I'm sure you'll be chasing avery down the halls of the hospital soon after her surgery. Make sure and get pictures of it :)
Renae I am not surprised your mind feels a little fuzzy with all you have to get ready for! Please let me know how I can help! Avery and you and your family will be in my prayers:) And Lesiy, that is a great idea to fast for Avery this Sunday.
Prayers will continue. You are an amazing mama, and I"m so proud that I know you.
Hang in there. It will all fall into place and all will be well.
xoxoxo
You guys will definitely be in our thoughts and prayers.
We're praying for you and thinking of you always, Renae!!!
It must be great to know that the end is in sight! Your family will be in our prayers, too.
Of course I'll be praying for your family (and for the surgeons and nurses and anyone else involved). The thought of having to face another hospital stay sends me into a state of panic. As I read your post, I had to hold back a sob, I can not imagine doing this again. You are amazing and your little girl is a doll, and I will be thinking of you guys and checking up on everything over the next few weeks. Please keep us updated and know that your family has a team of "cheerleaders" rooting for an easy month ahead. :)
You are in my prayers- what a strong women you have become- You have been blessed with so many innate qualities that Avery needs in a mom. Blessing to you!
Good luck. Your family is amazing. WE will be praying for you and of course we want to come and visit.
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