Millie's been out of surgery now for about 47 hours. She had a good night last night and has seen all three of the pediatric surgeons this morning. They all say she's doing just great. Today's a big day. They've already removed her epidural and she's started taking pain medication by mouth. She's experiencing a lot of pain and occasional mild contractions but she keeps enduring. Every contraction scares us, but the doctors reassure us that it's normal at this point because the uterus has been through so much. Millie had solid foods for breakfast and will need to get up later today for a shower. She faces every new challenge with her characteristic humor and courage.
Maggie is out of surgery. Things did not go as planned. As the doctor put it, "she threw us for several curve balls." We could not do the ETV. Once in her brain, he discovered that it would be too risky to proceed because of her anatomy. From what we remember, her pituitary was too close to an artery. As they were pulling out, a blood vessel burst. They had to get that bleeding under control before sewing up that side of her head and cutting open the opposite side for a shunt. That's when the neurosurgeon called us to tell us the disappointing news that the ETV wouldn't work. He said he'd come back to visit us in 45 minutes once the shunt was placed. We always knew this was a possibility, but were told her anatomy was "perfect" for the ETV. Guess you can't judge a book by its cover, even with an MRI. Shunt surgeries are common, and it is rare to have serious complications. But two agonizing hours later, we were told what happened. Duri
Millie you are seriously amazing!!! Thanks for all the great updates Matt - you are amazing too!! Love you guys!! Terelyn
ReplyDeleteMatt and Millie, we love you so much! The kids, Quang and I are keeping you in our thoughts. I even mobilized my work to contact EMI last week and I like to think it helped. Even my Dad texted to find out an update so we are all rooting for your family and are here for whatever you need.
ReplyDeleteAbby
hooray for one less wire sticking out of your body! and double hooray for solid foods!
ReplyDeleteYou guys are so sweet to share so much of your personal life! You are loved by so many. You are in our daily thoughts and prayers! Thank you for letting us all know how you are doing and how things are coming! We love and are amazed by your strength ! Love Ruth Wilkey
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