pulling Mira's hair

Pre-op 4/18/10

9:32 pm and we are finally at home, all in bed, including baby Lion. What a day. It began at 5:00 this morning with Charles watch alarm going off. I was exhausted and wanted to fall back asleep. Then I remembered....then again, how could I have forgotten. Liam was scheduled for bi-lateral cochlear implant surgery at Swedish hospital. My heart began to race because I knew there is always the possibility of complications. It was also the thought of someone taking my child and the possibility that I may never see him again. The entire situation was just scary.
We arrived at Swedish at 7:00, checked in and then we were off to pre-op for the tests and procedures that included giving Liam what they call "two cocktails". The nurses wouldn't stop talking to him, smiling at him and inquiring. They couldn't get over his contagious smile or his lovable presence. I did fine until I saw Liam get a little loopy. His wave wasn't quite as strong, his eyes glazed over and his little spark and twinkle left his eyes. It was hard to see. The we were asked who would like to go in with the anaesthesiologist while they put Liam under. Charles was the first to volunteer and I knew it would not have been a good thing for me to witness.
I said my goodbyes as I said good-bye to one of the two most important people in my life.
Charles was in with Liam for only 10 min. or so and then he came and got me while Liam went into surgery. We both went to the waiting room until we got the call. All went went. A flawless surgery. About 3 hours total. The Dr. said Liam will do spectacular but I never doubted he wouldn't.
We made it. It is done. The hardest part is over. A year of waiting, a year of sadness but happiness all at once, a year of wonder and anticipation. All I can say is "what a relief". A huge burden has left us tonight. Now if Liam sleeps through the night all will be well. Bandages will be removed tomorrow.

And now for the next adventure....the activation