Past the First 48 Hours

I'm doing good. My mind is still a little fuzzy so I'm not sure if I should be blogging, but I didn't want anyone to be concerned that because I haven't blogged I'm doing poorly. I'm past the first 48 hours, which I'm told are the most critical in dealing with the pain. I can tell the pain is beginning to lessen. I can't do much because of my right side and arm - this is good because it forces me to rest. I believe I will be doing great by the weekend. I think I'll even be able to drive by next week.

Monday, the day before the surgery was the best day I've felt since starting chemo. I was so thankful to have that day for two reasons. One, it gave me hope that I will feel good again, and two, it allowed me to feel strong physically to have the surgery. There is no doubt that my surgery wasn't meant to be on the 16th because my body was not ready. My body feels so prepared to recover from this surgery. I'm thankful I have a break in my chemo treatments. I wish it wasn't pushing the completion out another month and I hope it isn't effecting the outcome, but it's so nice not to feel so broken.

The day of my surgery started very early. We had to be at the hospital by 6:15 am. Katie stayed the night at her friends, and we had one of Matt's friends pick him up for school. A special thank you to the Pierson's and the Gangawere's for helping us. As normal, I was very emotional once we got to the hospital. I really do try to be strong and brave, but each time it seems worse.

When I was called back to the outpatient area it was by a nurse I had never seen before and when I looked around I didn't see anyone I recognized. I felt like I was in a different place. Well, shortly I had my four angels around me again. Cheryl Beal was there, Margie, Dawn, and my surgery nurse Cheryl. These women are amazing. Dawn was so cute because she said she was looking for me because she wanted to be the nurse that took care of me. Somehow, she still took over. The poor nurse that was there first helping me had no chance when these four were around me. It was really sweet. I felt like a very important person. Jim and the four of them prayed with me again before I was wheeled in to surgery.

I had a different anesthesiologist than the last two surgeries. Due to the chemo, I have been taking three different medications for my upper GI tract. Because of these medications he wanted me to take this awful tasting liquid right before the surgery - something to prevent reflex. I also made sure he gave me the "happy juice" before entering the surgery room and once I got in there I had them put on some music. The mask went on and I was out. When I awoke in recovery I was complaining about my throat hurting. The recovery nurse said I had vomited during the surgery. I was told it was the medicine they gave me. I guess they also had a tube down my throat. I'm surprised that my throat still hurts and is scratchy.

The surgeon was pleased with the outcome. He was able to save the expander. He took out more fluid and flattened it out so that it would no longer be buckling under my skin. He said the skin was thicker than he expected, which was good. He removed the damaged skin from the infection and then sewed me back up. I will see him tomorrow and he will remove the bandages.

Jim says I was in recovery longer than I was in surgery. I don't remember what time we got home but I know it was before noon. It still amazes me that you can have surgery and be home within hours. Jim has been a great nurse as always. The first night I slept in the chair in our room but it didn't allow Jim to get any sleep. He was exhausted and still went to work. I felt bad for him, so I had him get me all set up in the living room so I can easily get up and down without bothering anyone. He makes sure that I have everything I need before he goes to bed or leaves for work. I am so thankful for him.

Once again, I thank you for all your support and prayers. I continue to hope and pray that there will be no complications from the surgery and I will heal quickly. I'm nervous about the future chemo treatments, but I'm trusting it's all going to be OK.

I'm so looking forward to the day when we'll not be living this, but that it'll only be a memory.