Pre-Op Appt

April’s pre-opt appointment at the hospital is scheduled for Wednesday morning.  They’ll take a chest x-ray to make sure her lungs are clear and we’ll meet with a whole bunch of people (anesthesiologists, our cardiologist – or one from their office, etc) and they’ll draw blood.  Doesn’t sound too fun, but minor I guess compared to what’s in store with the actual surgery.  I expect the x-ray and blood draw to be the worst and hate that I won’t be able to stay with her for the x-ray part (since I’m pregnant).  Good thing we have Daddy.

While there she will get a wrist band that she will need to wear until surgery day.  Since she will receive a blood transfusion, it will identify the blood that is matched to her for the surgery.  Allow me to now put my shameless plug in for donating blood!!  If you can, please, give the gift that helps others live.  Please.  We did ask about doing a direct transfer of blood from me or Mike (since we are all the same, rare, blood type).  Both of us are ineligible.  I am because I am pregnant and Mike is because he recently had surgery.  Both things which happened before we knew anything about her having a heart defect or needing surgery.

You’ll notice the beautiful gown and slippers that she’s wearing in the picture.  My sweet friend Jen and her mom made them especially for her time in the hospital.  The slippers to keep her feet warm and a gown with easy access for the doctors/nurses.  She’ll be the best dressed kiddo there!  (They made another set too that will get photographed at some point.)  I’ve already been so touched by the out-pouring of kindness that we’ve seen from our friends, family and neighbors.  We are blessed.