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Saturday, September 25, 2010

Surgery Monday

We've talked to the cardiologist and the cardiac surgeon today.

We have decided that Joshua is simply not stable enough to make him wait another 2 or 3 weeks for the Glenn.

So, Monday morning Joshua is going to have either a shunt revision or they will clip the shunt.

I am praying that the surgeon will just be able to clip the shunt rather than have to do a shunt revision. The best way to describe a clipping of a shunt is this. Imagine a garden hose that is turned on. Now imagine stepping on that hose. The water still comes in at the same rate, but the water goes out of the hose at a much slower rate. If they clip the shunt, they pretty much are "stepping on the hose." It is a much more minor surgery than having a shunt revision. Bypass usually is not necessary. They will have to open his chest again, but it will not be left open again. In general it is a much easier procedure.

If they have to do a shunt revision, they will have to put him on the bypass machine. It is a much more serious procedure that will require completely taking the current shunt out and replacing it with a brand new one. Either way, they will have to open his chest completely again, but the clipping is less risky than the revision.

We will be transfered back to the PICU at Peyton Manning Children's Hospital tomorrow sometime. I'm hoping to meet with the surgeon one more time to get some of my questions answered.

Please be praying. I'm terrified of losing my baby. I'm clinging to my faith right now more than ever. Sweet Joshua is struggling to breathe and stay comfortable. There is nothing more miserable than for a mama to watch her baby suffer and be completely helpless.

I will update as we know more.

10 comments:

Stefenie said...

Jill,
Dear sweet gal please hold on! I am sure you are completely exhausted and on edge right now. Know that I and so many others are uplifting your family in prayer.

I know that God is holding Joshua and all of you in His loving arms during this difficult time. Believe that He will continue to hold you through surgery on Monday and will steadily guide the hands of Joshua's surgeons.

{{{HUG}}}

The Great Mooski said...

Continuing to pray. Wishing we could do more.

Anonymous said...

Continuing to pray. I'm so sorry you have to endure this. I'm sorry that Joshua has to endure this. My heart is with you.
Love,
Shannan Davis
proud mommy to Jamie (PA/IVS)

beccarankin said...

I found your blog through another random blog. What you said, "there is nothing more miserable than a mama having to watch her baby suffer" grabbed at my heart.

I'm dealing with tumors in lung and liver, but through it all I've said, "I'm so glad it is me and not one of my babies!"

You are in my prayers - especially for monday. I can't imagine having to watch my little ones go through health problems. Joshua looks like a little angel!

The Blackstone Family said...

Our family's prayers are with you, Shane, Joshua, Caleb, Hannah, all the family and friends who consider my little Popeye a dear one to them. I am praying for Joshua's surgery and care. I am praying for peace for you as wait for Monday to come and for during the surgery on Monday and Joshua's recovery. We love you all. FROG - Fully Rely On God.

leah said...

Hugs and prayers & more hugs, even more prayers.

Mason's Dad said...

We pray for Joshua, you and your family everyday.

Shannon said...

Praying this surgery is exactly what little Joshua needs to get him on the road to recovery and going home to join his big brother and sister.

We're always praying for you guys...Strength for you and your family, even more strength for sweet Joshua, and wisdom and guidance for his medical team. Hold fast to the prayers, Jill. Hold fast.

Big, big heart hugs!

Wodzisz Family said...

You all continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. I am saying an extra prayer for a peaceful weekend as you prepare to had Joshua over for another surgery. Hold on to your prayers and your faith.

Molly Alisa Photography said...

I am a mess for you today Jill. I am so sorry that this is necessary... and so sorry for the suffering Joshua is enduring.

Praying, praying, and sharing your story. Love to your whole family.

 
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