Eli's surgery went well, and they were able to close him up without a problem. Sometimes they try to close babies but there is still too much swelling so they have to wait another day, but that wasn't the case with us, thank goodness. He is still sleeping and we hope he just keeps at it for awhile. Tonight is going to be a pretty uneventful night and we will just wait and watch him. Then they will slowly come down on his supports, like medicines, diuretics and respiratory supports. By tomorrow they might increase the rate of reduction, but really it will be up to how well Eli does as he starts having to sustain himself again. So continued prayer that he keeps exceeding their expectations, as he has done so far.
Even through that awesome step forward, today was a tough day for me. Caleb had an evaluation this morning that I really wanted to be at, then we found out that Eli's closing surgery was going to be right when Caleb's appointment was. I had already decided to go to Caleb's appointment so Ryan stayed here with Eli and I went to Caleb's thing.
It was nice to get out of the hospital and go home for a little bit. However, it was really hard to be with Caleb because he misses us so much and I can tell he is very sad and confused. The appointment went well, but was difficult as Caleb just wanted to cling to me and didn't want to do what the therapist asked...understandably. After the appintment we went home for a bit to get some things and eat lunch. Then we came back to the hospital so I could see Eli and Ryan could see Caleb. We got to play in the play room for a long time which was nice. But when it was time to go Caleb had a huge breakdown. For those of you who know Caleb, he doesn't usually have breakdowns and isn't a tantrum throwing kid. So it was really hard to see that knowing it was just an emotional response to all of the stress and confusion he has to deal with, but still try to be firm with our expectations with him. Luckily one of the play room workers there had discussed that with us already, and apparently it's not an uncommon response with siblings. We do have plans to have Caleb come back tomorrow and try to go swimming in the pool they have here, so hopefully by seeing him more often now that our stress with Eli is greatly reduced will make things easier on him (and us).
So continued prayer for Eli's speedy recovery, without any setbacks so we can go home soon. And prayer for our little Caleb that he will know that we love him so much, and all we want is to be home as a family again!
Oh man.... choked up here as you describe both pendulum swings with your sweet boys. All of this is overwhelming for little ones and you and Ryan are working hard to keep all the balls in the air. Please give yourselves lots of grace and room during this 'season'of your life as a family. We will continue to pray that all goes well for these next steps for Eli... and sweet Caleb for a special sense of God's comfort in his heart... What a special little family y'all are! May God continue to hold you all in the palm of His mighty and capable hand!
ReplyDeleteWhat a tough time for you all, we are praying that God will ease this with His grace and loving comfort for you all. As hard as it is, remember that Caleb is in good hands and that this brief time away will not leave any permanent scars. Take care of each other and let family and friends help where we can! Love you guys!
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