Oh what a start. Henry was taken to surgery in the loving,joyful arms of the nurses and anesthesiologists at 8:00. Just a little behind schedule. The check in with Henry's nurse, Sandy, began calmly. Then, every parent's nightmare happened directly across the room from us. A baby girl with serious heart troubles went into cardiac arrest. It took restraint not to run and throw my arms around that poor, agonized mother. I am still shaking. Our hearts are with that family and we pray she'll be ok.
After Sandy took a few minutes to collect herself, we gathered in the recovery ward to finish checking Henry in. Sweet little man was getting so hungry, but just barely complained. Sandy undressed him to weigh him and put on his tiny, pale orange (with animals) hospital gown. He giggled at her and everyone just lit up. You could feel the tension leave the air...and the flirt festival was on.
The staff were sharing joyful stories of other Henrys and it helped the hand-off so much. I cried when he went out of site. His eyes were locked to mine and I am so grateful to have kept my face smiling. Chad looks worried but says he's fine. So glad he's Henry's dad. What a wonderful man . Now for the 4 plus hour wait.
You hang tight through the waiting. So many people are behind you and thinking the very best wishes and prayers for Henry and your family. We know how you feel since our own baby girl went through this same ordeal 5-months ago, and we know the depths of strength you must now achieve. Henry will amaze you with how strong he is. Believe it. His joy going into this will return in a matter of days, and he will live a healthy & full life because you gave him this chance, however difficult it is to manage right now.
ReplyDeleteHe is forefront in my heart today, and I hold confidence he is in the best of hands. The nurses will update you every 90-mins or so, and each moment will give you more strength & confidence.
Passing on strength, tender thoughts, and full empathy,
Pete
All of us at Joyful Noise are thinking of Henry and you all today. Our hearts are with you and Chad!
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