And We're Home

As I write this, it has been exactly a week since Madelyn's surgery. What a week. But we're home now and it feels sooo good. Honestly, I can barely remember a week ago and everything that went on. Looking through our pictures brings some of it back, but the days all blend together. Obviously there will always be reminders of that weekend: Maddie's scar, not being able to pick her up under her arms for six weeks, and the pictures. In terms of healing, she's doing great. We're only giving her pain meds when she needs them, which is usually a couple of times a day. The poor girl woke up yesterday with the hiccups, which is one of the most painful things for her right now. But then to calm her down enough to take the Advil is quite the job. Thankfully Rus still had yesterday off, but today I'm flying solo.

I don't think the past week has fully sunk in yet, but I do feel as though a HUGE weight has been lifted. I'm no longer constantly checking to make sure she's breathing. There's no more tightening up every time the phone rings wondering if this will be the call with the surgery date. The bandages are off, the stitches are out, all that's left is a followup appointment in a month. Our little girl is happy and healthy.

Maddie's development hasn't seemed to stop in the last week either; she's smiling way more than she did a week ago, and she's still super active. She lost half a pound in the hospital but seems to be gaining it back quickly.

My dad told me yesterday about another couple who are expecting and their baby also has heart issues. I wanted to cry. All the emotions came flooding back. I wouldn't wish this stress and fear on anyone. Even though we're on this side of the surgery, I still remember what it's like waiting and wondering what will happen. Please pray for them.

My heart feels very full. I am so incredibly thankful for all the support everyone has given us; we couldn't have made it through without all your prayers. THANK YOU!! A big thank you also goes out to those who came to visit us in Edmonton. You made our stay out there much more comfortable. Jared and D, thanks for driving all that way with two little kids!

I think I'm addicted to writing again, so if you want, keep checking back here for new stories about Maddie. I'm sure she'll give me lots of writing material in the years to come!