And Now the Aftermath!

We continue to feel blessed that the surgery went well. Our nurse last night told us that when there is a brain surgery the body doesn't react happily and there are a lot of ups and downs afterwards. We are finding that out the hard way. They had a really hard time regulating Lizzie's fluids last night. Luckily, Carol finally got some sleep, but I was up while they were trying to figure out Lizzie's medications and hormone levels and it was really sad. They ended up putting in a new pick line in a large vein in her leg. I don't know if Carol has mentioned anything about this, but they have had an extremely difficult time trying to find veins for arteries. Her little feet, arms, and hands have many bruises from where they have tried for veins. Her surgery was delayed for over an hour while they tried to find a vein.
The good news when I woke up was that they were able to regulate all of her fluids and so I am not as concerned as I was last night. Our biggest concern right now is her comfort. She is able to hear and respond to us when we talk to her. But that is bitter-sweet because we can see how uncomfortable she is. She has a breathing tube in, and that is causing most of her discomfort. I can see she really wants to take it out. They originally told us they would be able to take it out this morning after her MRI, but we were told first thing that her MRI isn't scheduled till 5:00 PM today. This is very discouraging for us. Please join us in praying that time will be moved up because she is miserable with that thing in. She is trying to cry and cough through it and it is so sad to see the pain on her face.
I think that it is going to be a rough couple of days and probably weeks in recovery and we are definitely not out of the woods yet. We are thankful for how well things have gone. But we are still very concerned for her recovery. Eventually we'll get some pictures up, but she has cords and IV's coming out everywhere!
Most of all, we want to thank our family and friends for the prayers and fasting in Lizzie's behalf. We really haven't had a situation like this where we have been this much in need. We have felt your prayers and love. We really appreciate all of your posts, texts, and expressions of concern. We don't have good cell reception in this hospital, that is the ONLY bad thing about Primary Children's. They have been AMAZING and we feel so fortunate to be so close to such a high quality institution. We have had many people ask what they could do to help. Our family has been amazing and they are taking care of most or all of our needs. The thing you can do is continue to pray for Lizzie. Prayer seems like such a simple thing to do, but it is truly a powerful force. We are overwhelmed by how much peace we have felt and we can feel your love and concern. Carol and I are doing fine, especially after getting sleep and a shower. Lizzie still needs lots of prayers. She is REALLY uncomfortable(which is normal after a major surgery) and she still needs prayers offered for her to have a good recovery without complications and, if possible, that she can be comfortable.
Thanks again for your concern, prayers, and offers to help. We are overwhelmed by the kindness of others, and for the kind things that have been offered and done. We feel truly blessed to have such amazing friends and family. We appreciate your unselfishness. This experience really makes me want to be a better person because of how kind you all have been to us.
Thanks again! We Love You!

Ben, Carol and Lizzie