Surgery Day

Shelley went in for surgery early this morning. Everything went well and we are sure glad it's over. Shelley did so well in the morning without eating. Everyone was surprised at how happy she was, Sweet Shelley Eliah! She fell asleep in my arms while the nurse was putting in six different eye drops, each five minutes apart. Both doctors came over and gave another rundown of what will be happening and what to expect for recovery. When that was over and her drops were finished, another nurse came and took Shelley away from me. That was when I broke down. There was nothing I could do from there on out but hope for the best (and say countless prayers of course!). I wasn't so much worried about the cataract surgery, but putting her to sleep. It took them an hour and a half longer than they estimated so that was hard to wait out. Nurses kept coming out and telling us it would be a little longer but that everything was going well. The nurses kept saying that they were taking it slower than normal and making sure Shelley was completely comfortable before proceeding (I know the doctors want to make sure the parents don't worry, but I kept wondering what was really going on with the anesthesia and why it took so long but that is for me to wonder, Shelley is fine so I am glad they went slow and didn't rush anything).

I was so happy when they finally came and got us. The anesthesiologist warned us that she may be discombobulated when she wakes up but that it will only last 15-20 minutes. When we walked into the recovery hall we could hear Shelley crying the saddest cry. It was heart breaking! When we came into her room, they gave Shelley to me and she calmed down for a moment but then just started crying again. This lasted what seemed like forever, but was probably around 15-20 minutes, like the doctor said it would be. Nothing would comfort her, she tried to suck her thumb and nurse but couldn't suck. Finally she started to nurse and calmed down. I never wanted to let her go again. Did any of your moms out there with children that had to get surgery have the same experience? It is so sad! She nursed so much and fell comfortable asleep. She has been so sleepy today but has been eating well so that is a great sign. So far she is pretty annoyed with the patch but it comes off tomorrow. I'm glad this surgery went well, it prepared us for her next surgery on the other eye (the doctor is going to keep checking her right eye to see when and if surgery is needed....he thinks she will need it but it may be two weeks away or a few months....we'll see). Also tomorrow she gets fitted for her contact. Wow, four months old and wearing contacts. Justin wants her to be a pirate for Halloween because she'll have to start patching her right eye soon to strengthen her left eye!

I know Shelley was in good hands and I know angels were around her and the doctors guiding and directing them and comforting my little sweetheart. I am so glad everything went well and that Shelley will be able to see now. This has been a huge blessing and I am so grateful to Shelley's pediatrician for catching this when she did! Thanks to all of you who kept Shelley in your prayers!

In her oversized gown before the surgery

After we got home from the hospital, fast asleep sucking her thumb

Her first awake time at home after the surgery
yes, they let us keep the gown

This picture was taken a few days ago but I wanted to post it. Both kids ready for bed in their pajamas. They're going to be the best of friends.