Resting Comfortably in Him

We are settled in the PICU. Bear with me as this may jump around, but I'll try to give everything we know.....

• The surgery was a complete success. The surgeon is very 'happy' with everything and feels so blessed to see something found so early and treated so quickly. It is hard to believe we began this process only 60 hours ago- amazing.
• There were no complications, concerns, blood loss, etc. Huge praise!!! Thank you all!!
  
• They did put in a portacath as well as two good IV lines. She also has an epidural for pain (thanks Emily!) and Benadryl to help her relax and hopefully sleep. She also has an NG tube- really not a big fan- and won't be eating or drinking for a few days.
• The stitches are disolvable and internal, so no removal. She has an 8inch incision straight across her stomach and they were able to repair her umbilical hernia as an afterthought- kind of like a free gift for us and her.
  
• The surgeon and pathologist are fairly certain it is an early stage Wilms tumor- nephroblastoma. It is hard to be exact because it was found so early so presentation is not the same. The lab results will be back in 2-3 days (this may not include weekends, not sure).
  
• We will be here for at least a week. After the results come back they will discuss treatment plans and schedules.
• There is some concern that her bladder is always so large in scans. Those of you that know her know she drinks water and pees in large quantities, but they will be checking into it. They want to ensure excellent functioning to keep that right kidney strong and healthy. Please pray that this is not a concern.
• She is resting comfortably now and watching Noggin. Thank God for round the clock preschool programming. It has truly made this process much easier for her and a great distraction.
• We are in the PICU for at least a day because of the epidural and then will return to her room on the 9th floor.
• We all had a good long cry in the waiting room and are doing well now. This is the path ordained for us and we are heading down it with confidence. David Crowder's 'Remedy' CD gave us a great time of worship and affirmation through our tears. And we praise God for His faithfulness.
• Please pray for any decisions we have to make. We had to make a fast, high-pressured decision today about epidural vs. narcotics. Please just pray for God's wisdom and discernment as these arise. (some doctors give recommendations, others don't)
  

In recovery, right out of surgery. She responds to our questions by nodding her head. She is feeling some pain in her belly, or just pressure (all you moms know this 'epidural' debate- you feel something), and she is moving her legs. She is not agitated or visibly uncomfortable.

No more tears. We are so proud of her!
Back in the PICU, watching Noggin. It was so sweet that all the doctors and nurses in every department have left her feet uncovered and tape-free to be sure she can have her pacis in her toes. She's legendary around here :) The curls help, too :) It's the little things like that that mean so much to us as parents.