And...We're Off!

May 12, 2009

Airica did better than planned, faster than planned.  Her body jumped in and took over for the heart bypass machine.  She was being monitored all night and settings continued to be lowered without incident.  It was pretty scary still, but really awesome.  Like I mentioned this was one of those "there's no turning back" moments and Airica shined like the star that I knew she was.

The doctors decided this was the day.  They would remove the canullas from the arteries in her neck and left thigh, and her heart would once again have to work together with her lungs (still on a breathing tube) to keep her alive.  We waited outside in the lobby as the surgeons worked on her.  It seemed like an eternity.  Every once in a while a nurse would come out and update us with the good news that she was doing great. 

Finally, the doctors came out to tell us the heart bypass machine was successfully disconnected and Airica's heart and lungs were working just fine.  We were overjoyed!  We we able to go in and see her, as well as be in her room now 24/7.   

Of course she was mellow for a while due to the drugs they gave her during the procedure, but that didn't last for very long.  Once she was more alert she was wiggling more than ever!  Since she didn't have the critical life giving machine on her anymore they were able to lessen the drugs, that she was fighting against, that also helped keep her still.  

Now the arms started flailing about! OMG this child is crazy!  She was going for her breathing tube and almost succeeded in removing it a couple of times.  They had to actually tie her arms down with some straps that are for that.  It's not as bad as it sounds, they were very comfortable and she had some leeway, but it was not time to take the breathing tube out (especially for her to be taking it out!).

Another big step in the right direction.  As each day passes and we celebrate these small victories it always reminds me how quickly life has changed for us.  I have also learned, how fragile life really is, and how little control over it that we, or even the doctors have.  It also reminds me of this superstar Airica. She was fighting so hard and doing so well. Even still somewhat sedated, and still intubated she was so full of life and spirt. Amazing!