God's Special Blessings

Wow! Today was exhausting yet amazing at the same time. We left our home this morning at about 6:30am. Emma was dreading our day at Children's and we tried to assure her that the fear is more of the unknown than anything else and that maybe today's information might help her to relax. We arrived at the hospital at 8am and we were greeting by a nurse who kind of helped us through our day. She began by taking some history from us and giving us info on the practical preparations for the surgery day. After a quick consultation with Dr. M she informed us that he is planning NOT to use the halo for stabilization after the surgery. Emma will be fitted with a brace instead. (as long as he can get adequate stabilization in the neck itself) This is an amazing answer to prayer for us. A really special blessing. Emma was glowing after she heard that news.
After this we headed xray for some additional pictures of Emma's neck.
From there we went to the pre-op clinic where we met with the anesthetist(I should look up how to spell this....later). He was really great and answered a bunch of questions we had. Emma has had some anxiety about the I.V. and he put her at ease by promising that they would make her comfortable no matter what. He was quite funny too.
Next she met her physiotherapist. Emma really liked him(although I don't know if she'll feel the same when he is trying to get her to do something uncomfortable) and he explained that he will work with her on her breathing and leg exercises as well rolling, sitting, walking etc. after surgery.
Our next appointment was at the repiratory clinic. Emma had to do some breathing tests.
After this we went to see the surgeons. We met with Dr.M and another Dr. who would be assisting him in the O.R. He answered many questions about the surgery itself. It is expected to take about 6 hours. Emma will have both an incision on her neck and on her side.(for the rib graft) She is expected to stay in hospital at least until the weekend. Both Dr.'s were amazing and so kind and generous with their time. They also stressed that Monday is Emma's day and they have not scheduled anything else for that day. Emma had been told that she could not do anymore horseback riding due the risk of injury to her but she came armed today with a compromise(after the suggestion by good friends). She asked Dr. M if she might be able to do therapeudic riding. Emma had the information sheet with her and presented it to him. And, to Emma's great joy he agreed that she could do this. Maybe by next summer. Another special blessing from the Lord for Emma. She was so happy and said that this whole day was worth it for that little piece of info. After signing waivers etc. we went and had a bite to eat.
Next was our tour of the ICU. We couldn't believe how busy and loud it was in there. Crazy! We also had the opportunity to see the ward where she will be after the ICU. This helped to make us all feel better I think.
We then went to the lab for some blood work etc. Had a quick visit to the hospital library and finally were done for the day.
We were so encouraged by the prayers that were answered today and thank you all for praying them on our behalf. Amazing!
Please continue to pray: for peace for all of us.
for Emma's health.
for a safe and successful procedure on Monday.
for our other children who will be without us for a few days.
for God to be glorified.

Thank you all so much. We love you.
Keith, Corinna, Emma, and family.