(pre-surgery photo...but he's still just as cute)
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We had a good night last night. Jack slept really well and the nurses were able to manage his pain well. Everyone here is in awe of how well he is handling such a big surgery. In order to un-tether his spinal cord, they actually had to cut through his spine (while taking out part of the bone in one or more of his vertebrae). The neurosurgeons team of doctor's came in early this morning to check his 4 inch incision, and said all is looking good. They also removed his catheter this morning. We only have 24 more hours of not being able to hold him upright. He has to stay on his tummy or his side in order to prevent any spinal fluid from leaking. He is eating and keeping his food down, and continues to just roll with the punches. He is a bit more alert today, and will hold his head up to look around and make noises to us. He's really working to get back to rolling around, but his annoying parents have to keep stopping him.
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I'm so proud of him. He's been so brave.
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We are feeling extremely relieved to be done with yesterday. While Jack has acted pretty content most of the time, there are still moments when the pain gets to him, and it's pretty unbearable to watch. His good temperament keeps him from full on screaming, but he just kind of moans in discomfort. That really sucks. I have a hard time thinking of anything worse than seeing your child in pain.
But, all in all, things are better than expected and we will, after all, get through this. So glad to have the anticipation of it all over. It's like a huge weight has been lifted.
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You learn so much about yourself, your child, and life in general when you go through something like this. It makes you appreciate simple times at home, when you get to pick up your sleepy baby from their own bed and spend time together comfortably at home. Health is everything. We're so lucky to have this ordeal well on it's way to being over and fixed. I have been so amazed by the doctors, nurses, and staff and their level of knowledge and skill. I now have the experience to back up what I've been told, this really is the best place Jack could be (other than the AWFUL fold out chair/beds)!
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It's amazing what you really can do and can get through when you're faced with it.
It certainly doesn't hurt when you have support like we have had.
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
Love to you all!
A little update for any visitors: We have moved rooms, and are no longer sharing with another infant and family. We have our own room now, Room # 3009.
Visitors over the age of 12 are allowed and welcome.
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Tiny oxygen mask used during surgery.
This is the only way I can hold/feed him.
Jack's battle wound...just a warning...the next picture is his uncovered wound...can't believe I can even look at it to post...scroll fast if you're grossed out easily like me.
Poor little buddy.
Reunited with Jango
Good news: Doctor just came home and said there is a possibility we could go home tomorrow night vs. Friday morning.
6 comments:
oh man, poor little guy, what a sweetheart. so glad it went well and that's it's over and he's on his way to being as good as new. give him a big kiss from me!
Wow that scar is impressive.. poor little thing! these pics made me all teary sar. it is funny because I work in a unit with little sick babies all the time, and I thought I couldn't really be phased by it anymore.. but seeing little jack and you guys in his room makes me SO grateful that olive has never had problems like that. You are amazing! (P.S. I am coming up to salt lake either today or tomorrow and wanted to drop by a little something.. do you think you will change rooms again?)
Dear Sarah and Brett-- Thank you for the details and the photos. We are all thinking of you and wanting to know everything. Yeah-- I have tears too. That sweet little boy-- and his sweet parents. We send all our love from L.A., Berkeley and Santa Fe.
Oh my sweet angel baby! That scar is tough looking...no one will mess with Jack on the playground. Although looking at it made me numb if you know what I mean. I'm so glad he's feeling better today. Can't wait for you to come home!
i keep trying to post a comment, but have had no luck...hopefully this one will go.
Just think you and Bret are the best parents ever...nothing is harder than seeing your kids in pain. This surgery was amazing, and isn't it great what we learn from something like this..even though reading it on line might have been easier.
Love you, and will see you when you get home.
(my nose always runs when I cry, so must find kleenex!)
Grandma
Oh man... I just want to give you a hug. Hang in there! Your baby is so sweet. Good lucky you two!
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