Halloween 2013

Since Ricki's diagnosis of NF2 in May there have been some long nights that seemed to never end and then there have been some that come to an end too quickly. Halloween morning 2013 seemed to come way too quickly. We were to be at the hospital at 6:00 a.m.  We had stayed the night at the Ronald McDonald House so we didn't have much of a drive to get there.  Upon arriving at the hospital we were one of the first ones there.  In no time we were checked in and the nurses had Ricki ready and then we waited.... Dr. Bollo then Dr. Shelton came and visited with us. When Ricki's nurse for surgery came we were all relieved to see it was the same nurse she has had for the last  two surgeries that came around 7:30 ....   iIt didn't make the goodbyes any easier knowing that even after a successful surgery Rickis life would be a little different than before. The next time we heard from the nurse was around 9:30. They had started the surgery. We had an update around  noon letting us know they were working slowly and meticulously.... Upon completion of the surgery We missed seeing Dr. Shelton because we had slipped down for lunch but were able to get the Good News from the surgery from Dr. Bollo around 2:30.  They had removed the tumor in her canal but had seen some signs of other very small tumors. After exploring further they found 2 more small tumors.  What a miracle it is to have such amazing doctors and the technology that allows them to work on such a small and intricate part of our body.  Her facial nerves responded through the whole surgery. They also monitored her hearing.   The response was strong at first but weakened as the surgery progressed.  We will have to wait to see the results of her hearing.  Ricki has been strong as she has been faced with pain, dizziness, and nausea.  She has been determined to not use morphine and the nurses have been awesome in helping her to control her pain without it.  She has been sleeping through the night.  For me it has been one of those nights that didn't seem to end.  We have a sweet baby next to us that has had a rough night.  It has brought back memories of the first night we spent here at Primary children's when Ricki was life flighted here. That night was also a long night of not knowing what the outcome of things would be for our sweet daughter.  That night we were also next to a sweet baby that was having a rough night.  As I pondered on where we were that night and where we are with Ricki tonight, it has filled my heart with gratitude for the many miracles and tender mercies I have seen and experienced over the past 6 months.  Though it has not been easy at times we have been blessed with a peace and assurance that we have a loving Heavenly Father who has a plan for each of us,  There are things we each individually need to learn and grow from  so that we may return and live with our Heavenly Father someday. I am reminded of a primary song the children at church sing.  

My life is a gift.  My life has a plan.  My life has a purpose in heaven it began. My choice was to come to this lovely home on earth and seek for God's light to direct me from birth.  I will follow God's plan for me. Holding fast to his word and his love. I will work, and I will pray, I will always walk in his way, then I will be happy on earth, and in my home above.

Although it has been a long night it has been a sweet night.  I am grateful for this time to ponder on the blessings of life.   What a fitting way to begin November with so much to be grateful for!