I have been away. My lovely L had her appendix removed last friday and was in the pediatric ICU for five days. It all happened so fast. Wednesday she had a tummy ache. Thursday she lost her appetite and when she didn't improve on friday morning I took her to the hospital. She never had a fever so I really thought that what we were dealing with was gastro interitis or else food poisoning. I expected we'd get a prescription and be on our way. The lovely doctor ordered blood and urine tests even though he also suspected food poisoning. When the tests came back with elevated white blood cell counts the doctors thought they had a mystery on their hands. She had no fever and they just couldn't explain that. We had an ultrasound done but our pediatrician said that it would likely be of little use. He was wrong. Her appendix was "very bad" according to the surgeon that looked at it. Her surgery was scheduled immediately and luckily for us that the abdominal fat had encapsulated the appendix not allowing the infectious fluids to spread-which was the greatest fear at that point. Her recovery continues to go well and I am so very thankful that we are blessed with some of the best doctors in the US. The nurses on the other hand could use some bed side manners lessons ;)

L remained stoic and brave through out and I feel so blessed to have such a lovely daughter. I, on the other hand, was just about going crazy with worry. Five sleepless nights, little more than a morsel of food in between but we made it through. For a few days she was just a shadow of the vibrant child that brings such joy to my life. The doctors had her on morphine for the pain but it left her lethargic, non responsive and slightly delusional. I couldn't bear to watch that so I requested alternative pain meds. Within twelve hours she was back to herself. Up and about, laughing, playing with other children in the playroom and her recovery fairly sped along with lightening speed. She litterally improved with each passing hour. Major lesson here is to always question. Don't be afraid ever to ask for alternatives if the current course of treatment doesn't feel right. The nurses and doctors had her best interest in heart but that can't replace my knowledge of her. No one knows her better than I do. No one wants the best for her more than I do. With alot of love and the extreme talent of the surgeons L is healthy again.

The primary purpose of this post was to tell everyone that reads this to hug their loved ones. Be thankful for them and always remember that you love them. Life is short and if you are lucky you get to spend it with those that can make you smile...and you them. Hold them fast while you can.

Namaste,

M