Day 1.......Surgery

Well I am glad the surgery is over. The neurosurgeon said the operation could not have gone better. Everyone at the hospital has been amazing. They have Child Life Specialists that are amazing with the kids. They taught her pre-surgery call we attended and the same girl, Emily, was also here with Isabel before her surgery. She gave her a hospital buddy(a small doll that she got to draw a face on) and let her play games, make a necklace and play with real doctor things (things she would see in the operating room, masks, blood pressure cuffs, etc.) She also accompanied Isabel to the OR with polly pockets and I Spy books to keep her comfortable until she went to sleep. Isabel was SO brave when she had to tell us good-bye before her surgery. I could tell she was scared and holding back tears, I am amazed at her strength. I on the other had fell to pieces as soon as she left my sight. It was a long 2 1/2 hours.

I was prepared for the worst after surgery. I thought she would look very sick, but she looked great. Once she woke up I was surprised at how well she was tolerating everything. She did get nauseated and threw up once. She can order her food like room service and also has an endless supply of slushies. Dinner consisted of ftuit loops and chicken nuggets. She keeps the nurses busy and entertained. Last night she told the nurse on the night shift has pretty she was. I think that got her a little extra attention.

We did not sleep much last night. I think her neck was getting stiff and there are a lot of unfamiliar hospital noises. But again I am amazed at how well she is tolerating and dealing with all of this. She must get her strength from her dad. We tell her that we love her and how brave she is and her reply is "thank you". She acts so grown up.

I am sorry if this post is random, and lacking in details, but I have not had much sleep and I am anxious to get back to Isabel. I will try to post again soon.

I think Isabel may want some visitors soon. If you do want to visit give Ben or I a call to see how she is doing. Thanks again for all your love and support. And I want to tell my sisters and sister inlaws, and mother in law thanks for helping with my other girls. I appreciate it.