First Day Post Op

So with Lincoln having had his surgery now and finally getting on the road to recovery, I think all the stress and lack of sleep finally caught up to Cara's body today as she needed to be taken to urgent care for a fever of 103.5 and severe stomach pains. Turns out she has had a kidney infection brewing for probably going on a couple weeks now and she finally allowed her body to fully manifest the symptoms. They gave her some antibiotics and pumped her full of fluids to decrease her fever and increase her blood pressure so hopefully she will be feeling better by tomorrow. We are becoming way too familiar with the hospital scene. You know you've been around doctors and nurses too long when you can interpret the results your wife's CBC blood test and make a recommendation to the doctor as to what broad spectrum antibiotic to prescribe.

Ironically, five minutes away at the exact same time Lincoln was receiving fluids as well to increase his blood pressure. It was no big deal or anything. Apparently immediately following large surgeries they have to be constantly regulating the drips and other supports as their blood pressure and other vitals fluctuate. But as far as first days after surgery go, they told me that he had a fantastic day! His recovery seems to be off to a great start and they anticipate enough of the swelling going down to be able to close his chest by Sunday. Also they said that most post ops about 12-18 hours after surgery usually experience a slump in there vitals, but Lincoln just coasted right through without any problems. Unfortunately, Cara couldn't be there what with barely being able to move from a combination of the pains of the infection and pure exhaustion. But one of the first things the nurse told me was that Lincoln is so strong. I almost teared up right there. I immediately thought of how many times we've prayed for and blessed him to have the strength to endure all of this and, as she said that, the realization hit that those prayers along with all of yours had been heard and answered. So again thank you so much!

We are just simply in awe at the surgical capabilities that we've been able to witness and the tender mercies of a loving Father in Heaven. Truly amazing! This definitely has been a time of extreme growth for all of us. It never ceases to amaze me, the composure and resilience that Cara has shown throughout everything as she continues to face and conquer new battles every single day and I am positive that she has genetically passed these qualities as well as her strength on to our son. I know that I'm supposed to be the example and role model for him, but thus far that is exactly what he has been to me.