"L" called me this morning, informing that "J"'s head had swelled significantly overnight. Seeing it for myself, his head appeared almost twice the normal size. One eye was puffed nearly shut. Again, not unexpected, as we were forewarned by doctors, nurses, and families who'd gone through this before....still, when it's your child and you're so used to him looking one way, it still shocks to see him appear so different. Our sweet "J" was almost unrecognizable. It was very heart-breaking. Contrasting our ache for "J" was knowing that today is "B"'s birthday...she's three! I brought "B" and my mom over to Children's to meet some families from our small group, who brought a cake and presents to celebrate. Later, several families from our home church showed up with cake and presents of their own. During this time, we brought the grown-ups and older kids to see "J". Children's Hospital only allows 3 people (over age 12) into ICU at a time, so we made a lot of visits. We were so blessed by everyone who came. We were worried that "J"'s surgery would overshadow "B"'s birthday, but that was not to be, thanks to such considerate, caring friends. They made sure both "J" and "B" got love. Thank you all who came, as well as those who called and emailed your concerns, thoughts, and prayers, making today so special and easier for us to cope!
Many of our visitors were able to bring their children, since their schools were closed due to impending snow. The snow never came, but it's forecasted to come tonight and tomorrow. We'll see...
Though no visitors under 12 are allowed, "B" was an exception, being a sibling. Her comment upon seeing "J"? "Owee. He got a big boo-boo. He need a big band-aid." Out of the mouth of babes. :-)
"J" was moved out of ICU around 9 pm into the regular recovery ward. We went back my brother's home to gather some things and celebrate "B"'s birthday for a 3rd time, with her grandma, uncle, and aunt. "L" and I headed back to spend the night with our "J". His head has puffed up more. Both eyes are swollen completely shut. He cries and cries, with pain meds his only source of comfort and calm. It's been difficult to take. We really, really miss "J"'s old head....his bright, wide eyes....his infectious giggle. Now there's none of that. And even though it's been less than a day, it seems so long since we've seen/heard them.
We're settling in for a long night....but we also know that we don't want to be anywhere else at the moment.
