Joseph's Surgery--After

Joseph's surgery took a little longer than we expected, but the doctors consider it a success. Although it took some extra time, the doctors were able to close both openings in his palette and put in the ear tubes.

Joseph returned from surgery in quite a bit of pain. It was very difficult to see our typically easy-going little guy crying and moaning from the pain. The poor little fellow has had to deal with so much in his short life. Both dh and I wished there was more we could do to ease his pain and uncomfortableness. He had to endure this alone in China when his lip was repaired. I'm glad we could be there for this surgery.

He, Gabe, and I had a long night in the hospital. It seemed each time I rocked Joseph to sleep, someone came in to check vitals, give more medicine, or check his ears and mouth. Joseph would fuss at being poked and prodded, Gabe would then wake up, and I would do my best to get both boys back to sleep. Needless to say, I didn't get much sleep.

Sometime in the morning, I noticed a change in little Joseph. As I was giving him some juice, he raised his eyebrows and smiled. I knew he was feeling a bit better. By mid-morning Joseph was walking the hospital corridors and waving to all he met. We were able to come home around noon and Joseph was greeted by his doting sisters. Juju was especially happy to see him and came running in from the backyard saying "Hi Joe-Joe!"

Here he is in his 'no-nos'. These are to prevent him from sticking anything (like fingers, toys, bugs, etc.) into his mouth. He'll be in these for 3 - 4 weeks as he heals from surgery.

Joseph's Surgery--Before

On Wednesday little Joseph will have surgery to repair his cleft palette. Even though he is a fifth child, he entered a house where there has never been any major medical procedures for the children. None of the girls has ever even needed stitches. We have had no major injuries or illnesses. In fact, Banana was eight before we ever had to deal with so much as an ear infection.

I feel inexperienced, unprepared, and anxious about his surgery. I have so many questions, I keep bombarding every hospital worker that calls. At the same time feel like I am not asking some other important questions because I am unaware of what I should be asking. Some things are silly; do I need to pack diapers and jammies? Others seem more important; what qualifies as a soft diet, are sippy cups ok, what complications are common?

The apprehension is also compounded by a little frustration. The hospital has a standing policy about no child visitors and will not allow me to bring little Gabe who doesn't leave my side since he is nursing. The hospital was very dismissive and unsupportive and said we could just give him a bottle. There is a chance the staff will be more lenient, we are praying for that. I can't imagine not being there with Joseph.

Please keep Joseph in your prayers this week. His surgery is Wednesday afternoon and he will most likely be in the hospital for two nights. He will then have a modified diet for quite some time. Also, if you have any good hospital advice for a two year old patient, let me know.