Last Surgery Date

Claire went to Children's today for her follow up appointment. We were given a surgery date that was rather surprising ... Tuesday!!!! I was in shock. Her illiostomy is just not functioning the way that it should and I am having to change a bag EVERY DAY!! They should last an average of three days. It is effecting the skin around her stoma, plus the illiostomy just does not allow her the same nutrient absorption as a colostomy does.

Please be praying for her as we prepare for this next step. All Claire has ever known is her ostomy being a part of her. As much as we are VERY excited for her and we know that this change is what is best for her, it will still be a loss to her. I know that the Lord can prepare her heart for this just as He prepared her for us.

Claire's post care is also not going to be easy. It is going to require time for us to learn what it will take to "regulate" her bowels. Plus her skin has not had stool on it and in the beginning it could react as if it is a fountain, which means CONSTANT changing. Who ever is able to be with me to help, is going to be on shifts with me until we get things under control.

I have also been warned that once you get it "under control" it can get TOO under control and need help exiting. NOT fun with a three year old. It is already interesting enough to perform the homework that we have had to do, let alone what is coming up.

So, please PRAY PRAY PRAY!!!!! Thank you!