Through the Operation

Just a quick update: Rowie's operation was without drama. The surgeon had expected some issues from her previous operation as a baby - scar tissue can be a real problem apparently - however it was dealt with. The surgeon gave me a full run-down of the work that had been done, and reinforced my confidence in the outcome - the valve is in place and functioning well, Rowie remained stable throughout the procedure, and was progressing well.

I've just left the intensive care unit where Rowie is getting all the care and attention she sorely needs right now. She awoke a couple of times and was looking a little dazed and confused (as would be expected!) but seemed pleased to see me waiting for her, so some browny points there! I debated for some time as to whether I would stick around the ICU all night but the decision was made for me when the night-nurse shift change-over came, and the new nurse - a stern but gently lady named Linda - suggested that I was no good to Rowie tired out, and that I should go get some rest. So I've just come home.

I was fine all afternoon right up until we got back to the hospital at 5.15pm, and I went looking for a status update. No-one could tell me anything (not sure whether that's the normal tactic) and I fairly quickly descended into worst case scenarios. Fortunately, around 6.00pm an ICU nurse came out to let us know that the theatre had called ahead to prep the ICU for Rowie's imminent arrival - which we took to be good news obviously! Around 7.00pm I was allowed into the ICU. It was a shock - Row looked pretty much how the anesthetist had described she would feel - and the nurse reacted brilliantly by letting me know that all signs were good.

So, from here on we will be limiting visits to 15 minute pop-ins, as we don't want to wear Rowie out. This next two days will be critical to her ongoing recovery so we don't want to risk anything.

It's been a hell of a day and one I won't ever forget, but now it's done and hopefully by the end of the week Rowie will be out of intensive care and beginning the long journey towards "normal" health.

Thanks again to all who have contacted me and wished us well, your messages have been great...

Looking forward to Friday now.