tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17718568696375908302024-03-17T20:03:52.243-07:00The Lihn FamilyThe Lihn Family ~
Caleb, Stacey, Emerson & ZoeStaceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.comBlogger290125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-6977981405774217892015-06-19T09:17:00.002-07:002015-06-19T09:17:14.300-07:00The Normal LifeI visited our blog today (to find a link for a new HLHS family) and couldn't believe my last post was over a year ago! Whoopsies, my bad.<br />
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The past year flew by and I'm happy to report that all is well. And Normal.<br /><br />Zoe started and finished pre-Kindergarten - which was way more difficult for mom than Zoe! She loved it, and ended the school year with not one, but two, boyfriends.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoe and Ryder (aka Batman and Batgirl)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoe and Hudson</td></tr>
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Both of our little ladies took up gymnastics and are loving it. I regret not getting Zoe into community activities earlier, as she's already built muscle tone in her little arms and legs - and, new research is showing that exercise is important for single ventricle kids as it improves circulation. <br /><br />All of us have been extremely busy this past year - with school, traveling, advocating, and opening a new business - Thies, Lihn & Simpson. Thanks Obama! No Really, thanks Obama for making it possible for individuals with pre-existing conditions to become business owners!<br /><br />Many may be unaware, but after Zoe was born, Caleb decided to go back to school and get his LL.M. in Estate Planning (with a specialization in special needs and elder planning). An LL.M. is a "Master of Law" degree with advanced study in a specialized area of law. Inspired by Zoe, Caleb wanted to use his law degree to help other families raising special needs children and individuals often overlooked by our system.<br /><br />I couldn't be prouder of him - and his two partners - for making this venture at the beginning of the year. And, honestly, proud of myself for not freaking out more in taking this leap! </div>
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With Zoe's heart in good shape, we've done some traveling and exploring - taking our first trip to San Francisco to visit Aunt Stephanie and Uncle Paul </div>
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And braving the elevation with Zoe in the Colorado Rockies. As you can see, she fared perfectly. We had to get this picture of Zoe at 9,331 feet with great oxygen saturations to send to her cardiologist - who advised us to drive home if she got cyanotic or lethargic. Clearly, Zoe wasn't going to let half a heart get in the way of a great vacation!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White Water Rafting down the Colorado River</td></tr>
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We'll be doing quite a bit of relaxing until school starts up again in August. Zoe and I are headed to Philadelphia at the end of July for an annual post-Fontan cardiac work up. It's hard to believe her last surgery was two years ago. The further out we get, the more and more normal we feel. Cheers to countless years of normalcy!<br /><br />We hope everyone enjoys the remainder of the summer and we'll do our best to update more than once a year! Cheers! </div>
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Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-64255663402499091222014-04-20T21:43:00.000-07:002014-04-21T11:05:33.523-07:00Live it HappyOne thing I've often heard, from some wise cardiac practitioners, is: "Families whose HLHS child is doing well, are not sharing their journeys online - they're busy living their lives." I always thought, "yeah, that's probably true..."<br />
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Well, it must be true. <br />
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My last blog update was in January! We've certainly been busy living our lives.<br />
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Life post-Fontan is beautiful. We've very much settled into normalcy. Zoe is doing incredible. We actually saw this (a definite first) last week:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">100% oxygen saturation!!!</td></tr>
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Zoe had a cardiology appointment in early March and Dr. Stock was impressed with her clinical presentation - so much so, she bypassed an echo. She'll have another full work up before starting pre-K this fall. Yep, my baby is going to school!<br />
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This spring, we were blessed to finally meet a few HLHS families we've known via social media, but never had the opportunity to meet in person. We're thankful we live in Arizona where so many love to come and visit!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jozie (North Dakota) and Zoe</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoe, Will (Iowa), and Emmy</td></tr>
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With the continued "spirit of living" narrative, we've spent some time up north, in Strawberry.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Papa and Emmy play badminton </td></tr>
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Thus far, spring in Arizona is treating us well. We have a few trips planned this year, mom has some speaking engagements lined up and dad is being admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court in June. All in all, 2014 is another year to live well and be happy.</div>
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How could we not - with these two smiling, silly, and incredible little girls?!</div>
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May, our busiest time of year, will bring many more smiles. Two birthdays, one anniversary (15 big ones for Caleb and I), and a Kindergarten graduation. <br />
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As we near summertime in Arizona (ouch), please join us in our summertime mantra! <br />
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Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-37517106262619131472014-01-10T21:27:00.002-08:002014-01-10T21:27:55.573-08:00HOLY GUACAMOLE!The title of this post - one of Zoe's <strike>favorite</strike> most appropriate expressions - and my reaction when I saw our last update is from September 2013!!! Yikes - someone's been busy!<br />
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I won't go into great detail about the last several months, but as you can probably imagine, life is good. Zoe is flourishing with her Fontan circulation. She's growing, slowing gaining some weight and becoming a bit too smart. The mix of intelligence, feistiness and determination is both good and bad. We're down to giving medications once per day and her oxygen saturations are in the mid-90s. Phew!<br />
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Emmy is doing incredible in Kindergarten. She loves school and brings home perfect test scores almost weekly. She's in a liberal arts prep school and I can just see it now - a UPenn Medical Student! That Doc McStuffins sure is a good influence!<br /><br />Caleb and I are staying busy between work, kindergarten (nightly homework) and play. I've expanded my duties and am assisting the National Pediatric Cardiology Quality Improvement Collaborative, bridging my duties with Sisters by Heart. It's really a great opportunity to unite parents and clinicians, to work together improving HLHS treatment and care. Of course my full time job as a paralegal is priority, but I find fulfillment in both arenas, so I'm doubling up! <br /><br />Don't you love how this post turned into a seemingly Christmas-card-esque annual wrap up? Ugh, so not what I had in mind. <br />
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I'll leave you with some family photos from our traditional year-end photo shoot with Blue Lily. The setting - an auto junkyard. You see junk? We see beauty!<br />
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<br />Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-11278883327227424342013-09-22T12:08:00.001-07:002013-09-22T12:08:39.671-07:00Team Zoe: Arizona Congenital Heart Walk It's that time of the year again; time to fire up Team Zoe and get ready for the Arizona Congenital Heart Walk. The walk is on November 3, 2013 at Tempe Diablo Stadium at 10:00 a.m.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Team Zoe 2012</td></tr>
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This walk is always important to us as the money raised benefits The Children's Heart Foundation and the Adult Congenital Heart Association to fund research which contributes to better outcomes and lives for children and adults with congenital heart defects. In fact, when we were in Philadelphia in August for Zoe's Fontan, her interventional cardiologist, at CHOP, told us about a study he is currently conducting, which was funded by The Children's Heart Foundation.<br />
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2013 Team Zoe shirts are available for purchase. The shirts are $12 each ($17 each if out of state shipping is needed) and all proceeds benefit <a href="http://www.childrensheartfoundation.org/" target="_blank">The Children's Heart Foundation</a> and the <a href="http://www.achaheart.org/" target="_blank">Adult Congenital Heart Association</a>. The design for this year's shirt:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Front - shirts are navy blue)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3yArD2F7Z8/Uj8fpNYAeYI/AAAAAAAADQI/Wwms-9UpcRQ/s1600/Team_Zoe_2013_back_FINAL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z3yArD2F7Z8/Uj8fpNYAeYI/AAAAAAAADQI/Wwms-9UpcRQ/s400/Team_Zoe_2013_back_FINAL.jpg" width="340" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Back)</td></tr>
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If you'd like to order a shirt, please email me at <a href="mailto:lihnsc@yahoo.com">lihnsc@yahoo.com</a> with size and quantity. <b>(Adult S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL, 2T - 5T, Youth Small, Youth Medium and Youth Large.)</b> Payment for tees can be made via PayPal to <a href="mailto:lihnsc@yahoo.com">lihnsc@yahoo.com</a> or send a check to:<br />
<br />
Stacey Lihn<br />
G & K, P.C.<br />
2575 E. Camelback Road<br />
Phoenix, AZ 85016<br />
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<br />
We'll need all orders by October 14 to ensure printing and delivery in time for the Congenital Heart Walk on November 3. <br />
<br />
You don't have to walk with us to purchase a shirt. BUT, we'd love to
have you join us on November 3, 2013 in Tempe, Arizona if you're
available. To sign up to join Team Zoe at the walk, <a href="http://congenitalheartwalk.kintera.org/faf/search/searchTeamPart.asp?ievent=1074813&lis=1&kntae1074813=81B2C0F1272C46D1BC04CF596C86F224&team=5631542" target="_blank">click here</a>, or to make a donation to Team Zoe, <a href="http://congenitalheartwalk.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=1074813&lis=1&kntae1074813=12C78B7038CC4786ACC5134F2A70DE7B&supId=0&team=5631542&cj=" target="_blank">click here</a>. <br />
<br />
Donations will benefit the Children's Heart Foundation/Adult Congenital
Heart Association and are tax deductible. When donating, know that you
are making a difference in the lives of those living with Congenital
Heart Defects (CHDs).<br />
<br />
<b>With awareness comes funding. With funding comes research. With research comes
hope. With hope comes life. </b><br />
<br />
Help us make a difference for Zoe and the millions living with Congenital Heart Defects.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KMxINByVrjQ/Uj8_14xlXxI/AAAAAAAADQk/-dqENy65TQ0/s1600/walkingzoe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KMxINByVrjQ/Uj8_14xlXxI/AAAAAAAADQk/-dqENy65TQ0/s320/walkingzoe.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoe's strongest walk yet; 24 hrs post-open heart surgery</td></tr>
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<b> </b>Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-61578322866010193332013-09-14T14:37:00.000-07:002013-09-14T14:37:10.303-07:00Our Fontan Success StoryZoe rocked the Fontan. Period. <br />
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Immediate extubation without consequence, great pain management (off all pain medication day 5, including Tylenol), walking less than 24 hours post open heart surgery. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoe's post-Fontan stroll...</td></tr>
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With such great results and speedy recovery, I've been asked a few times, "what's your secret?" I thought, while it's fresh in my mind, I'd share our Fontan story. I am confident that each step we took, set Zoe up for her best possible outcome. So, here are my collective thoughts on how we got to where we are today. </div>
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<b>1. CHOOSE WISELY. </b></div>
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By far, this is the first, most important step in this HLHS journey. From the day of Zoe's diagnosis, we educated ourselves and did our research. We received three opinions (local and distant) on her heart defect. We compared outcomes and data provided to us from differing centers. We met face-to-face with surgeons and cardiologists who may be part of Team Zoe. And, we followed Zoe's current cardiologist's advice... "always go with your Gestalt" - that gut feeling, what you know and feel is right for you, for your child. We did. And landed ourselves in Philadelphia with experts in HLHS. Our surgeon, Dr. Tom Spray, is by far one of the fastest, most skilled surgeons in the world. His bypass times are unreal, his technical performance is noticed (yes, even on echo). The experience of our Philadelphia team increased Zoe's post-operative performance and healing. If you know how to manage post-operative complications appropriately, you cut down on significant complications and permanent damage. We know that a large portion of Zoe's current success begins with our wise choice to travel for her invasive care. Here at home, we chose wisely and receive her local care with a cardiologist who works well with the rest of her Philadelphia team (and, most importantly, with us)! For more information on this subject, read this well-written article by Dr. Anthony Rossi on <a href="http://www.sisters-by-heart.org/2011/09/practitioners-perspective-how-to-choose.html" target="_blank">"How to Choose a Congenital Heart Center."</a><br />
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<b>2. PREPARATION</b><br />
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Prior to Zoe's Fontan, I conducted a LOT of research. In fact, over the past three years, my brain has been a sponge - absorbing all things HLHS. My brain really ramped up the last few months leading up to the Fontan. I play an active role in Zoe's medical care. I'm informed, I educate myself, I ask questions. I asked myself, therapists, fellow Fontan families, and her cardiologists, "what can I/we do to enhance Zoe's Fontan outcome and recovery?" The answers received helped mold our plan of action. <br /><br />First, I managed what I could control: eastern medicine and holistic modalities. Most hospitals in the United States do not offer eastern medicine techniques as complimentary treatment... so, I took it upon myself to learn. I researched <a href="http://my.clevelandclinic.org/departments/integrativemedicine/reiki_therapy.aspx" target="_blank">Reiki - a form of energy healing</a>, interviewed <a href="http://juliemotz.com/Home_Page.html" target="_blank">Julie Motz</a> (who worked in Dr. Oz' operating room as an energy healer), familiarized myself with <a href="http://www.youngliving.com/en_US/discover" target="_blank">essential oils</a> and talked to therapists about best practices to prepare Zoe for her upcoming open heart surgery. </div>
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I began using essential oils at home, approximately 6 months prior to the Fontan. Zoe grew familiar with their scents and I knew which oils gave her a sense of peace and calm. I became certified as a Reiki Master a few weeks prior to Zoe's Fontan. In talks with Julie Motz, I knew the practice of energy was crucial to a speedy and successful recovery. In fact, I was pleased to see that <a href="http://www.childrenshospital.org/clinicalservices/Site1593/mainpageS1593P0.html" target="_blank">Children's Hospital Boston</a> has Reiki Masters on staff, within their cardiac unit. <br />
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Communication played a very large role in Zoe's Fontan success. I talked to her, in depth, regarding her past surgeries and the Fontan. She watched video and looked at photographs of herself pre- and post- Norwood and Glenn. She UNDERSTOOD that although she was having open heart surgery, she would also recover - heal, feel better, and go home. Her mind and body were in concert with this narrative. She looked at photographs of this process (her birth, her family support system in the hospital, her surgery, her recovery, her return home). The process of what was to come was very clear in her mind. I also spoke to her about the operation itself, what Dr. Spray would do, what her body needed to do to recover quickly. She voiced to her body what her liver needed to do, what the role of the chest tubes were, etc. Much of my dialogue with Zoe was derived from pointers from Julie Motz, which I'm willing to share with anyone interested (just email me at stacey@sisters-by-heart.org).<br />
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Prior to leaving for Philadelphia, we incorporated a lot of play therapy (at home, led by mommy). Zoe has a doctor's kit and we took her stuffed animals' blood pressure, pulse ox, placed IVs, performed echos and ekgs, etc. If I knew how to do the Fontan, we'd have done that too! We read <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Franklin-Goes-To-The-Hospital/dp/0439083702" target="_blank">Franklin Goes to the Hospital</a> to help Zoe comprehend that having surgery, and her feelings, weren't abnormal. <br />
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All-in-all, this preparation piece is key. Preparation prepared not only Zoe, but also myself, Caleb, and Emmy on what was to come.<br />
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<b>3. PUTTING IT IN TO PRACTICE</b> </div>
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Zoe received Reiki treatments (with regularity and surgical intention) a week prior to her Fontan. As many of you read on prior blog posts, myself and Zoe's <a href="http://www.briangolub.com/Brian_Golub/Home.html" target="_blank">"Uncle Brian"</a> both gave Reiki - during surgery and immediately following surgery. We focused on her heart (obviously), liver, grounding her, emotional well-being, and gastrointestinal tract. Zoe's infamous for blood chemistry being off following extubation, so our main initial goal was the liver, where anesthesia and toxins are processed. Zoe received, in total, five hours of Reiki in her Cardiac Intensive Care Unit immediately following her Fontan. We were quite encouraged by the support of her nursing staff - who've seen Reiki assist in recovery. During Reiki, we played soft, soothing music (<a href="http://garthstevenson.com/music" target="_blank">Garth Stevenson</a>) and diffused essential oils (yes, we had a private room). <br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xdjfQPZ0sS8/UjSl0PvEPMI/AAAAAAAADPA/YorSenOg50g/s1600/yoga.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xdjfQPZ0sS8/UjSl0PvEPMI/AAAAAAAADPA/YorSenOg50g/s200/yoga.jpg" width="186" /></a>For gastrointestinal issues (i.e. constipation), we also had Zoe doing <a href="http://on.aol.com/video/how-to-cure-constipation-with-yoga-114223545" target="_blank">yoga poses</a> (twists in bed) and abdominal massage. This proved to be VERY EFFECTIVE! Zoe held this pose for several minutes with assistance. We did use quite a few of these modalities together (i.e. reiki the gut, <a href="http://www.youngliving.com/en_US/products/essential-oils/blends/digize-essential-oil" target="_blank">DiGize</a> oil, twists, and massage).<br />
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<br />In addition to reiki, aromatherapy (suggested Young Living oils are Lavender, Trauma Life, JuvaFlex, DiGize, Valor), yoga and massage, we also played some of Zoe's favorite tunes (music playlist created by dad and Zoe). The music proved particularly useful when she began recovering, walking, and becoming more active. We held dance parties in the CICU! <br />
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<b>4. ATTITUDE</b> </div>
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<br />Never, ever underestimate the power of a positive attitude. From our beginning talks about the Fontan, we remained positive and encouraged Zoe that this was simply part of her journey. Were we scared? Of course! But we knew we'd done everything possible - compiled a great team, created a plan and all would be well. Our kids feed off of our energy, so I wanted Zoe to feel our positivity and make it her own. Nurses in the CICU and step down unit were amazed at Zoe's positive attitude. They commented that many HLHS children coming off the Fontan go into a "funk" and are "depressed" for a few days. I can honestly say, Zoe (while yes she grew cranky and wanted to leave), she never felt despair or depressed. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2DYDllw-EDY/UjSnUIViZaI/AAAAAAAADPM/G_9cXEyoOK8/s1600/Mom+and+Zoe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2DYDllw-EDY/UjSnUIViZaI/AAAAAAAADPM/G_9cXEyoOK8/s320/Mom+and+Zoe.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day 4 - post-Fontan</td></tr>
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In fact, the day after discharge from the hospital, as we were walking in Philadelphia, Zoe turned to me and said, "Mom, I'm so glad I got my heart fixed!" Pretty amazing statement coming from a 3-year old just one week post open-heart surgery and acclimating to a brand new systemic circulation. <br />
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<b>5. ARM YOURSELF</b> <br />
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One of the greatest tools we had during recovery was - incentives! We created a "wish list" on Amazon for Zoe's friends and family to show their love and support. Each time Zoe had a particularly rough event at the hospital (IV placed/removed, chest tube removal, catheterization, blood draw, drinking required fluids, etc.), we provided her a present from her wish list. We included items on her wish list that would brighten her hospital room as well - window markers and wall stickers. Not only did the presents provide entertainment, but we told her who each present was from and why they sent it - creating a loving and supporting environment... AND LOTS OF FUN! <br /><br />Another great tool is the Beads of Courage program. I'd never actually strung Zoe's beads, but found this a huge benefit post-op because Zoe had a great time stringing her own Beads. The program was created here in Arizona, at the University of Arizona. You can read more about the program <a href="http://www.beadsofcourage.org/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. <br />
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<br />I hope you find some benefit from our Fontan story. I know some or all of our modalities may not be for everyone, but take or leave what resonates with you. Explore your options and empower yourself and your child. <br />
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<br />I'll leave you with Zoe's display of Fontan emotions... <br />
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<br /><br />Heart hugs from the Lihns - and Uncle Brian!<br /><br /><br />
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Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-43180600552385218782013-08-29T17:27:00.000-07:002013-08-29T17:27:20.294-07:00Home, Sweet, Home<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Even though we've been home for 5 days already, we're still unwinding. The emotional upload that occurs before a surgical trip takes a while to download from. This picture pretty much sums it up...<br />
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Upon returning home this past weekend, I choked back tears as I watched my little girls so excited to see one another. It feels great to be home, and having Zoe doing so well is icing on the cake. I was concerned we'd return home and she'd need close monitoring, but that's not the case.<br />
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Zoe had her follow up appointment with her local cardiologist, Dr. Stock, today. He's been our lifeline in Phoenix for the past 4 years and it was great to see his face light up when he saw how wonderful Zoe looked. He fed her ego, calling her a Super Star; then let her rule the office for a good hour.<br />
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Overall, Zoe sounds and looks wonderful. She had a full work up (minus chest x-ray which wasn't necessary). Her ekg, spotless. Sats 87-88 (normal with her fenestrated Fontan). BP normal. Echo, great. She has no tricuspid regurgitation, LPA looks wider than ever, aortic arch looks great, no fluid around heart or lungs, function is very good. Liver is a "2" (measurement of how taxed the liver is from new pressures) and will decrease as her body acclimates to her new circulation. All-in-all, we're doing great and Zoe's heart is still smiling. <br />
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During her echo, Zoe asked if she could see her heart smile again. The echo tech was super confused :) When the tech showed me her Fontan, she said, "wow, who did her surgery?" I told her "Dr. Spray" and she smiled. Pretty <strike>impressive</strike> scary when the echo tech can tell the difference between surgeons.<br />
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Zoe is due back for another cardiac visit in three weeks. We're beginning to wean her diuretics today and she'll be completely off of them in 2 weeks. Again, I'm so impressed with Zoe's ability to recover and heal. Dr. Stock is happy, we are happy, Zoe is happy. It's time to LIVE and GROW UP and BE HAPPY. <br />
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One of my favorite "must get photos" is Zoe and I in Rittenhouse Square (a fabulous little park in Center City). Every in-patient stay at CHOP, ends with the same photo. I look forward to this photograph every year. It's a marker of our journey and we'll be growing the collection as they years go by.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0POAeOFJW0g/Uh_gepys__I/AAAAAAAADOg/mX9dVx7uRp4/s1600/Zoe+park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0POAeOFJW0g/Uh_gepys__I/AAAAAAAADOg/mX9dVx7uRp4/s640/Zoe+park.jpg" width="384" /> </a></td><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(2010, 2011, 2012, and...)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2013!!!</td></tr>
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For all my heart moms heading into the Fontan soon (I know there are several), I'm planning a "Our Fontan Success Story" post soon - to highlight, what I believe, played a large role in Zoe's success. Stay tuned...<br />
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<br />Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com55tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-75937001503795910312013-08-22T06:59:00.003-07:002013-08-22T06:59:50.060-07:00Green LightAs many of you know, Zoe had her post-op visit with Dr. Szwast yesterday. This was our "stay or go home" appointment. Admittedly, I was nervous. <br />
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It turns out, Dr. Szwast had nothing but good news for us. Zoe's Echo and chest X-ray looked great. She has no valve regurgitation, function looks great and flawless repair with a "smaller fenestration." Her liver is doing well and didn't take a hit, which can sometimes happen with this new anatomy. </div>
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Plan is, a lifetime of follow up to keep an eye on her heart function and liver. Post-Fontan is wonderful, but as I've heard many times over, it's "a faulty circulation," meaning it isn't ideal and can cause significant complications. Given her speedy recovery and her body's quick acceptance to the Fontan, Dr. Szwast is very happy.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">High fives from Dr. Szwast; Zoe was too fast!</td></tr>
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A great appointment means... we're free to leave!!! We're staying for suture removal on Friday and heading home Saturday. Zoe is so excited to go home. She's looked forward to returning home since the second day we arrived in Philly! We're so happy it's sooner than later!</div>
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Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-60614137618909801562013-08-20T15:38:00.001-07:002013-08-20T15:45:38.134-07:00Back to NormalPrior to Zoe's Fontan, based on stories I'd heard, I figured it would take a week or so for Zoe to return to her normal self. Well, that simply isn't the case. <br />
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She woke this morning, happy as a clam - talking about how we need to bring Emmy next time we come to Philadelphia. She insisted on going for a walk today, so we did. Lots and lots of walking (with Zoe mainly in the stroller). Hard to believe she's not had any pain medication (including Tylenol) since Sunday evening!<br />
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We decided to do some sightseeing and check out historical sites we've not been to, but always had on our list of "things to do... next time."<br />
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Zoe, the incredible trooper, insisted on riding the carousel in Franklin Square, shared my hot dog and fries and played mini-golf. Seriously, this girl was in the Operating Room a week ago today having her chest opened!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, this seal was sanitized!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">18 Holes of Mini-Golf (we did skip a few)...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not following the "no arms above head" rule.</td></tr>
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We also visited a place Caleb wanted to check out - City Tavern. It's the oldest pub in the United States, opening in 1773 and site of the first 4th of July celebration. They serve beer made from recipes of George Washington, Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton. We decided to get a flight, since we wanted to try them all. Pretty darn good!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flight of Washington, Franklin, Jefferson and Hamilton brews</td></tr>
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As we were walking around the city, Zoe said to me, "Mom, I'm glad I got my heart fixed." All this time, I worried she would be angry and sad that we forced this journey upon her. Today, she showed me that her soul runs deeper than I could've imagined. She feels good, and is happy. <br />
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One of my favorite moments today, Zoe walking in Elfreth's Alley - the oldest residential street in the United States. She walked up to this house and asked, "Is this Obama's house?" Apparently, the oldest residential street isn't impressive enough, she wants to go straight to the big house...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Elfreth's Alley</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoe's favorite on Elfreth's Alley, "Obama's House"</td></tr>
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Tomorrow is Zoe's post-op follow up appointment with her cardiologist at CHOP. We expect nothing but good news. It's a bit surreal still; we couldn't be more pleased. We're very much looking forward to heading home this weekend and seeing Emerson. We've done lots of Skyping this past week, but I really could use a BIG HUG from this sweet princess!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See you soon, Emmy!</td></tr>
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Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-12834675219863041722013-08-19T10:49:00.001-07:002013-08-19T12:35:42.603-07:00Hasta La Vista!We stayed the course, and all is well. Zoe woke to the echo tech, then the X-ray tech. The echo tech showed us Zoe's repair. Such an incredible sight to see!!! It's truly remarkable. <div><br></div><div>The best part, when the tech told Zoe that her "heart is smiling." I laughed and he said, "no, I'm serious..." He turned the screen closer to me and pointed out the smiley face that her heart tissue formed on echo. If I wasn't so ecstatic, I'm certain I'd have lost it right then and there. I truly feel that Zoe's heart is smiling, so seeing that image (and I apologize in advance for not having my phone in hand to snap a photo) confirmed that her insides are just as happy as her outsides :)</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-7i7-FhmLey0/UhJaQ3tq9EI/AAAAAAAADLw/xVk4ag-5Jhw/s640/blogger-image-992913295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-7i7-FhmLey0/UhJaQ3tq9EI/AAAAAAAADLw/xVk4ag-5Jhw/s640/blogger-image-992913295.jpg"></a></div> (Last chest X-ray!)</div><div><br></div><div>At morning rounds, the cardiac team continued to be blown away by Zoe's recovery. We had a few candid conversations with practitioners who indicated the recovery is far superior to what they've seen as of late. We are so stinking thrilled!</div><div><br></div><div>Zoe's cardiologist, Dr. Szwast, reviewed Zoe's pre-discharge echo this afternoon. The repair is perfect. Her heart <i>IS </i>happy!</div><div><br></div><div>WE ARE FREE!!! It's official... Less than one week post-Fontan and we're outta here!</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Lx-yqoCjBFc/UhJaf--MkoI/AAAAAAAADMA/Ni_RLufzc2A/s640/blogger-image-1379320567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-Lx-yqoCjBFc/UhJaf--MkoI/AAAAAAAADMA/Ni_RLufzc2A/s640/blogger-image-1379320567.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Today, my wardrobe couldn't be more appropriate! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7Jabwlny-R0/UhJaaCjSmgI/AAAAAAAADL4/Zw5CFGU_oms/s640/blogger-image--1880368315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-7Jabwlny-R0/UhJaaCjSmgI/AAAAAAAADL4/Zw5CFGU_oms/s640/blogger-image--1880368315.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>We plan on enjoying Philly for a few days while we wait for Zoe's follow up appointment before we get the "all clear" to fly home. Assuming no fluid accumulation around the lungs, we'll be back home this weekend! </div><div><br></div><div>Aunt Stephie and Uncle Paul are coming Wednesday to help out with Zoe... but, instead of the original plan of being inpatient, we'll be able to visit, continue recovering and celebrate outside of CHOP!</div><div><br></div><div>Zoe is super excited to be leaving shortly. She picked out her discharge outfit. She thinks it's her perfect wardrobe for today - camo shorts and a Phillies tee! </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-l5oPkHXTviA/UhJajM8KC1I/AAAAAAAADMI/CDzgeXFhJXY/s640/blogger-image--634855866.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-l5oPkHXTviA/UhJajM8KC1I/AAAAAAAADMI/CDzgeXFhJXY/s640/blogger-image--634855866.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-53963045451626172202013-08-19T04:54:00.001-07:002013-08-19T05:02:37.040-07:00Today's PlanWe like today's plan. We're hoping no one goes off script! This morning Zoe will have her discharge echo and X-ray to confirm all is well. Next, some follow up planning to determine when we can head back to Phoenix. We'd planned on sticking around a full week post discharge, but Zoe's recovery has been so tremendous, we may be able to squeeze in a follow up visit later this week and head home this weekend! <div><br></div><div>Please send good vibes today that all goes as planned! The pharmacy has our Rx's and is awaiting a thumbs up post-echo.</div><div><br></div><div>While you're thinking of Zoe today, please also send some good thoughts and prayers to her fellow HLHS buddy, Bodie, who is needing to head back to the OR this morning following his Fontan last week. He needs his pacemaker adjusted and sadly must have his chest reopened. His mom, Amy, is one of my dearest friends and could use the uplifting spirit of Team Zoe. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qk8DoqTzcP0/UhIJOA5kfvI/AAAAAAAADLg/4cfMGWMJaYA/s640/blogger-image-1082020389.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qk8DoqTzcP0/UhIJOA5kfvI/AAAAAAAADLg/4cfMGWMJaYA/s640/blogger-image-1082020389.jpg"></a></div> (Zoe and Bodie, First embrace, circa 2011)</div><div><br></div><div>We'll keep you posted. For now, Zoe is passed out while the sun rises over downtown Philly. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7WhEmDU3-ss/UhIHeYMrxGI/AAAAAAAADLU/gA0MIJcMdcM/s640/blogger-image--1893234881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7WhEmDU3-ss/UhIHeYMrxGI/AAAAAAAADLU/gA0MIJcMdcM/s640/blogger-image--1893234881.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-72754392051534089642013-08-18T07:25:00.001-07:002013-08-18T07:25:35.211-07:00Drumroll, Please...This morning's chest x-ray looked great and Zoe's chest tube was removed about 10 minutes ago! We now have no tethers, except her ECG leads. Can you feel it? We just took a huge leap towards discharge. Another chest x-ray in a few minutes to confirm all looks good post chest tube removal, then morning rounds to find out "the plan." We still need labs, an echo and to get all of our medications squared away. I'm not going to speculate on a discharge day as all heart moms know that's bad juju, but it's soon... LESS THAN ONE WEEK POST-FONTAN!<br />
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Zoe, you're incredible! Another update coming after rounds...Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-34448920793871117252013-08-17T21:38:00.002-07:002013-08-18T01:25:21.472-07:00Evening Update and The Voice<div style="text-align: justify;">Rounds in the step sown unit didn't happen until late (around midnight), so we didn't take part. Morning rounds with the attending will be much more informative. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Zoe is recovering brilliantly. She continues to do well. Frankly, she's ready to leave, but for the chest tube, which hardly drained anything at all today. We are hopeful they'll remove the chest tube tomorrow. An early morning chest x-ray will confirm for sure if it's ready to come out. So, we'll certainly have more information after morning rounds. </div>
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On a totally random note, a couple of years ago, The Ryan Seacrest Foundation built a recording/broadcast studio, located in the lobby of CHOP, called <a href="http://giving.chop.edu/site/PageServer?pagename=give_TheVoice" target="_blank">The Voice</a>. CHOP consistently has celebrities visit the studio to entertain and raise the morale of the many patients at the hospital. On Friday, we had the opportunity to meet actor/musician Jesse McCartney and DJ Pauly D from The Jersey Shore. While Zoe has no idea who they are, we thought it would be cool to get autohraphed pictures for her. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stacey and Jesse McCartney</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caleb and DJ Pauly D</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The autographed photo DJ Pauly D signed for Zoe</td></tr>
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Hopefully, we will have good news to report after morning rounds, i.e. that the chest tube will come out. We'll update after rounds. Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-73306812031856557362013-08-17T13:11:00.000-07:002013-08-17T13:12:01.206-07:00"Uncle" BrianWhat can I say, other than... this blog post is dedicated to my BFF, <a href="http://briangolub.com/Brian_Golub/Home.html" target="_blank">Brian Golub</a>, who put his life on hold for a week to be here with Zoe, Caleb and myself during Zoe's Fontan and recovery. <br />
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He's been nothing short of a miracle-worker these past few days - giving reiki, holding Zoe in yoga poses to help her bowels, making her laugh and holding beauty parlor hours.</div>
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I know that his presence made a huge difference in Zoe's recovery. </div>
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Just days before Zoe's Fontan, Brian received his Reiki Master attunement and is full of healing energy. I sure wish everyone going thru something similar had an "Uncle Brian." They're definitely kindred spirits and feed off each other's positive energy. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goofballs!</td></tr>
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I could tell, this afternoon, when Brian left us to head to the airport, both of their spirits were a bit deflated. Here they are, two peas in a pod, bidding a gracious farewell. Thank you so much, Brian, for your undying commitment to Zoe. Our deepest gratitude.</div>
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Another HUGE thank you, to my parents, who've been taking such good care of Emerson while we've been in Philadelphia. Emmy started school (twice over)... long story... and my mom and dad have been troopers. We're missing Emmy really bad and thinking we'll be seeing her sooner than later!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Emmy mailing Zoe a handmade card. (Thanks Atherton Family for thinking of Emmy!)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Zoe's doing fabulous. She walked all the way to the atrium, up two flights of stairs and back to her room. If you know CHOP's layout, that's a huge feat! Dr. Spray's physician's assistant stopped by today and mentioned that they've "never seen a post-Fontan patient walk the day after surgery," on their own accord. The entire cardiac team is amazed at her speedy recovery, will and determination.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walking around feeling satisfied!</td></tr>
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When we returned to Zoe's room, she decided to chill out and start stringing her <a href="http://beadsofcourage.org/" target="_blank">Beads of Courage</a>. She's simply incredible. Caleb and I couldn't be more proud of her and we know she has a full life ahead of her; she's going to do incredible things!<br />
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It appears that we're on the road to discharge soon. Zoe's IVs have been removed and we're counting the last of the drainage from her chest tube. I'm feeling removal is coming soon (perhaps tomorrow). She's transitioned to all oral medications and we received a list of her discharge medications today - routine for CHOP a few days before discharge. <br />
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Many thanks, to all of you, for the continued love and support. We really feel blessed to have you on this journey with us. We felt surrounded by all of you during this hospitalization, making us stronger and wiser.<br />
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Caleb will blog later tonight after rounds and include some entertaining pictures from yesterday. Until then... <br />
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Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-18660035877903780002013-08-16T05:02:00.001-07:002013-08-16T05:03:32.387-07:00Full Steam AheadYesterday, Zoe continued to make progress in her recovery. Due to a lack of "ins" and being "negative," meaning she was giving more output (urine/drainage) than taking fluids, she won herself IV fluids again. Hoping more drinking today and we can turn it off. <div><br></div><div>Zoe did a good amount of walking yesterday. She certainly doesn't want to hang out in her room much... I don't blame her! </div><div><br></div><div>We'll likely spend a good part of the day in the playroom today and we plan to head to step down with a room opening up soon. </div><div><br></div><div>The best news yesterday... Zoe finally pooped! She's been really uncomfortable and complaining her belly hurt. With help from some yoga poses, reiki and glycerin, she got her bowels moving! So, we're expecting a good day today. Full steam ahead for Miss Zoe! </div><div><br></div><div>Goals are: more eating and drinking and less drainage from her chest. </div><div><br></div><div>Overall, the team is really happy with her progress and have no real concerns. </div><div><br></div><div>I have a feeling, this "Doc" may be seen wandering the CICU halls later today...</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kcRVodXrbC0/Ug4UtivUriI/AAAAAAAADI4/SbCMztvFM6U/s640/blogger-image--1507283972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-kcRVodXrbC0/Ug4UtivUriI/AAAAAAAADI4/SbCMztvFM6U/s640/blogger-image--1507283972.jpg"></a></div> </div><div>Thank you all for your continued good thoughts and prayers. Besides a lack of sleep, we're all doing quite well!</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-47727355439655700422013-08-15T03:25:00.001-07:002013-08-15T03:32:44.507-07:00Continued ProgressYesterday was a busy day! We started early with a chest X-ray which was a tad hazy, showing some fluid in Zoe's left lung. Nothing too concerning for her medical team. <div><br></div><div>Once Zoe woke at 6:30 am, the days mantra appeared to be "progress," starting with removal of her Foley cath. Her vitals and rhythm were spot on, allowing for more progress - removal of her RA line and Fontan line. </div><div><br></div><div>Around midday, the physical therapist came by to get Zoe out of bed. Instead of propping her up in a chair as planned, Zoe insisted on taking a walk! The girl is less than 24 hours post open heart surgery and out in the halls walking! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-6FMbJQsQJDI/UgysgWWb5AI/AAAAAAAADIY/kPWv2K3iRYI/s640/blogger-image--2031809137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-6FMbJQsQJDI/UgysgWWb5AI/AAAAAAAADIY/kPWv2K3iRYI/s640/blogger-image--2031809137.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>The day's mantra continued with removal of the IV in her foot and Art Line. She began feeling more freedom and we could tell she was much more jovial (yep, jovial)! </div><div><br></div><div>Caleb and "uncle" Brian insisted that mom get out of the hospital and get some fresh air. Of course, as soon as I left, a special visitor stopped by! Someone who is rarely seen at the patient's bedside during recovery...</div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7od69UJFIDY/UgyslcShDjI/AAAAAAAADIo/-9-eGgsTiok/s640/blogger-image-24651188.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7od69UJFIDY/UgyslcShDjI/AAAAAAAADIo/-9-eGgsTiok/s640/blogger-image-24651188.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Definitely felt one of my top bucket list items was fulfilled after getting this picture of Zoe and her hero/surgeon, Dr. Spray, via text. </div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At this point, we're pretty much ready to leave the cardiac intensive care unit and move to step-down but bed space is tight so we'll remain in this room, hopefully discharge soon straight from the CICU. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The goal from here is continued progress - getting Zoe's bowels active and slow the drainage from her chest cavity. All-in-all, she is fast-tracking this recovery! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Uncle Brian and I did another reiki session late last night for continued healing. Zoe sure takes the energy well... This morning's chest X-ray was improved. Sadly, her last IV went bad and the stick team came to replace it at 6:00 am (mommy tried to battle, but lost the fight). I was hoping we could bypass re-insertion but the team wants another placed as her chest drainage is a bit more than we'd like. Since ceasing the drainage is our ticket outta here, I figured it wasn't a good fight from my end.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Today's plan, more walking, less drainage and more rest for Zoe. She's not been sleeping well and wants to just play, play, play! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-A60KkLYvleQ/UgysiruGw5I/AAAAAAAADIg/xqC84D6KMjg/s640/blogger-image--1105778043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-A60KkLYvleQ/UgysiruGw5I/AAAAAAAADIg/xqC84D6KMjg/s640/blogger-image--1105778043.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-33954648795094028432013-08-14T07:48:00.000-07:002013-08-14T07:48:56.730-07:00Post-op Day 1We've already made some progress today. Zoe had her foley cath pulled early this morning and both RA and Fotan lines are out. Her chest X-ray was a little hazy but should clear with added lasix and getting her into the wagon today for a ride around the CICU. She looks great; some pain today but Morphine helped take the edge off. Got her some breakfast and pediasure but the morphine is taking over and she's too tired to eat at the moment. <br />
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Had morning rounds and they will also pull the Art line today. Likely moving to step down tomorrow!!!<br />
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Zoe and I got some sleep last night. Thank goodness for the quiet, private room. Continued thoughts and prayers for steady progress appreciated!<br />
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<br />Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-78334270430381250422013-08-13T11:12:00.000-07:002013-08-13T11:12:48.602-07:00Fontan Recovery - Looking Good Zoe is settled in to her room in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit. As you can see, she is still resting, but looking good.<br />
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All of her numbers look very good, her post-op chest X-ray is perfect, and they are very pleased with how she is doing. Her body and toes are very pink, which is a change from the purple lips, toes, and fingers that we've become accustomed to. Her oxygen saturations are currently 94, which is a clear increase from the 88, give or take, which had become her recent baseline. <br />
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While simultaneously performing Reiki on Zoe and speaking with the nurse supervisor, she stopped mid-sentence, and said, "are you doing Reiki?" When we told her yes, her eyes lit up and she said, "good, that will really help, keep it going." It was a pleasant surprise to receive that reaction and we will definitely keep the Reiki going and hope for a boost in recovery. <br />
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With recovery from this surgery, however, things can change quickly. The major factor in her recovery will be the drainage from her chest tube, which runs through both lungs. If she continues to do well, they will try to get her to eat solid foods tomorrow and potentially start walking.<br />
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Thanks again for all the positive thoughts, energy, and prayers. We will continue to keep you updated on Zoe's progress. </div>
Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-85456848524155774972013-08-13T09:07:00.001-07:002013-08-13T09:07:29.218-07:00Post-Fontan!Just met with Dr. Spray. All went well and her heart looked good. She is extubated and getting situated in her room. We will see her in about 30 minutes. Overnight is most critical. Keep up the good work, Team Zoe! It's time to recover!Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-26609388525068711012013-08-13T08:20:00.000-07:002013-08-13T08:20:04.271-07:00Fontan update - 2Just got word that the repair is all done! She is off bypass and they are closing her up now. We are waiting to talk to Dr. Spray. We should meet with him in about 15-20 minutes.<br />
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We'll update again after we talk to Dr. Spray.Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-33352666412208778492013-08-13T07:24:00.001-07:002013-08-13T07:24:27.518-07:00Fontan update 1Just got our first update...surgery started one hour ago and Dr. Spray is already through the scar tissue and on bypass. Yes, this is very fast. Typically we get updates every hour, but Zoe's nurse said she didn't even think the whole procedure would even take another hour. <br />
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We'll update again soon.Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-22937250483098080812013-08-13T06:35:00.000-07:002013-08-13T06:35:07.340-07:00FontanningWe met with Dr. Spray a few minutes ago. Zoe is in the OR. Next update in one hour. Surgery expected to last 2 hours. Send all good thoughts and prayers to our little warrior!Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-58653204263578597512013-08-12T10:15:00.001-07:002013-08-12T10:17:20.533-07:00Intervention, Scratch That!We were told to expect our first cath update an hour into the procedure. At just shy of an hour, they came out to tell us they were done and didn't move forward with any interventions. Dr. Glatz explained that while the left pulmoary artery was slightly narrowed, it didn't cause any blood flow issues. He also explained that the pressures from her heart/pulmonary arteries were in the average range, and the percentage of her blood flow travelling through her collateral arteries was slightly lower than last time, thus no need to coil.<br />
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Regardless of the lack of intervention, because they performed a cath, Zoe needs to lie flat for 6 hours. We're three and a half hours in, so just two and a half more to go. She's doing well, but a little puffy and groggy from the anesthesia. We had one minor incident with some bleeding from the groin site, but it's ceased. Right now, she's more concerned about which band aid she has on her neck cath site. <br /><br />We'll stay inpatient overnight and Zoe will be prepped for surgery bright and early tomorrow morning.<br />
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Please send good thoughts for Zoe to remain comfortable throughout the rest of today and for a successful surgery tomorrow. Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-60142755906093809322013-08-12T06:10:00.000-07:002013-08-12T06:10:01.718-07:00MRI & Cath (is a go)<div style="text-align: justify;">
We just spoke with Dr. Glatz, Zoe's interventional cardiologist, who reviewed the preliminary results of this morning's MRI of Zoe's heart. He indicated that everything looked good on the MRI, but some slight narrowing of the left pulmonary artery remains; he also saw a decent amount of collaterals.</div>
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Zoe's left pulmonary artery has a history of narrowing. In September of 2010, Dr. Spray performed the hemi-Fontan, instead of the Glenn, since her left pulmonary artery was narrowed, and went ahead and patched the artery to the lung. Later, in July of 2011, Dr. Glatz observed further narrowing during a cath and ballooned it open to increase blood flow. On today's MRI, he didn't think it looked narrowed enough that it would require intervention, but suggested there was a possibility Dr. Spray may want to patch it again tomorrow, which ads a step to the Fontan. He'll consult with Dr. Spray during the cath, if necessary, once he's inside her pulmonary arteries/heart. </div>
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Because of the amount of presence of collateral vessels, he indicated he planned to go ahead and coil/embolize. The theory is that by coiling, it lowers the pulmonary pressures, which can lessen the most common side effect of the Fontan, fluid retention in the chest. </div>
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Because of the cath and intervention, Zoe will spend the night in the hospital tonight and have her Fontan first thing in the morning. She may experience lowered oxygen saturations tonight and low-grade fever due to the coiling.</div>
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We'll get the next update in about an hour.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zoe and Lambsie getting ready for their MRI/Cath</td></tr>
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<br />Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-46267148889347425082013-08-11T10:17:00.000-07:002013-08-11T10:17:07.657-07:00Pre-op and PreppingIt feels like we've been preparing for the Fontan forever. Since before Zoe was born we knew this day would come. In the list of options presented to us to treat Zoe's Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome was a three staged series of open heart surgeries, culminating in the <a href="http://thelihns.blogspot.com/2013/07/and-so-it-is-fontan-prep.html" target="_blank">Fontan</a>. <br />
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Most of you know Zoe's Fontan is scheduled for Tuesday, August 13, 2013. <br />
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We arrived in Philadelphia on the evening of Thursday, August 8. Zoe, while being scared to get her "heart fixed," was excited about the journey to Philly. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spoiled on the plane: Watching Wizard of Diz while getting a foot massage from daddy</td></tr>
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On Friday morning, we had Zoe's pre-op appointment. The appointment consisted of a check of vitals, EKG, echocardiogram, chest x-ray, blood work, and consultations with several researchers regarding ongoing research studies that Zoe qualifies for. Zoe did great on all of it, but was obviously not a fan of having her blood drawn. Fortunately, we saved that for last and they got all the blood needed on one stick. <br />
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Afterwards we asked Zoe what she wanted for lunch, "mac & cheese and frenchies (french fries)." So we walked into Center City to get Zoe her requested lunch. While we were eating, a lightening and thunderstorm started. We took our time eating hoping the storm would move on. When the sun popped out, we decided to make a break for it and head back to our hotel. On the way back, the rain returned and we got a nice shower (we're Arizonans and don't know what umbrellas are). On the bright side, it was nice and cool for the remainder of our walk. <br />
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On Saturday, we met up with Stacie and Tommy Jackley, who live near CHOP, and have a little man, Kellen, who has the same heart condition as Zoe. <br />
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We ate lunch at Max Brenner's and topped off the lunch with a giant syringe of warm chocolate, served with powdered sugar, and gummy bears. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deep conversation over a bowl of waffle fries.</td></tr>
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After lunch, the kids played in the Rittnehouse Square Park. <br />
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It was a fun day that kept Zoe happy and mommy and daddy distracted from the upcoming surgery. Today we plan to have brunch at one of our favorite Philly restaurants, do lots of walking, and again try to stay somewhat distracted, to the extent possible, from the events of this upcoming week. <br />
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Speaking of those events, we will report to CHOP at 5:30 a.m. on Monday morning. They will prepare Zoe for general anesthesia and once she's under, she'll have a cardiac MRI of her heart, which will provide clear pictures of the heart to assist Dr. Spray for the Fontan surgery. Dr. Glatz, Zoe's interventional cardiologist at CHOP, indicated that immediately after the MRI, while Zoe is still under anesthesia, he may perform a cardiac catherterization. He indicated that he will only do the cath, under a couple of scenarios: 1) If he feels like they need to measure the pressures in the heart (which the MRI can't do); 2) if there is some narrowing of Zoe's aortic arch, in which case he would go in and balloon (angioplasty) the arch, to allow for better flow; or 3) if they see a decent amount of collateral vessels that are affecting blood flow, he will go in and coil or embolize the extra vessels, which recent studies have shown, if done, can improve recovery from the Fontan surgery. Given the amount of collateral vessels present in Zoe in July of 2011, when she had her last catherterization procedure, it is likely that they will want to perform some coiling tomorrow. <br />
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Off for one more day of fun, and hopefully a good night's sleep before we get serious on Monday. We'll be at CHOP bright and early and once the MRI is over and we find out if they want to cath Zoe, we'll update the blog. In the meantime, please keep sending Zoe positive energy and keep her in your thoughts and prayers. Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1771856869637590830.post-68203371980681012012013-07-18T13:28:00.000-07:002013-07-18T13:28:17.013-07:00And So It Is... Fontan PrepNot surprisingly, in anticipation of this final planned surgery for Zoe's heart defect, I've been doing lots of research, planning, and stressing. <br />
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Zoe will undergo an intracardiac lateral tunnel Fontan. Essentially, Dr. Spray will enter her right ventricle and finish the tunnel to complete her full-body circulation. Zoe's heart will look like the one photographed here (her right ventricle will have two parts - 1) a tunnel for deoxygenated pulmonary flow and 2) a chamber for oxygenated systemic flow, aka a lateral tunnel Fontan). <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Note the very small/non-functioning left ventricle)</td></tr>
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Following the Fontan, as her half heart is working double-time to make up the work the left ventricle is not able to do, Zoe will require a lifetime of care with cardiologists. There are obvious risks which we've known from Day One, but this currently is our best and only option. <br />
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As promised, we've created a "wish list" for Zoe - items to keep her distracted and busy during her hospitalization. If you'd like to browse Zoe's list or send her a get well gift, feel free to visit the Amazon link <a href="http://amzn.com/w/9Q4D8G2L242U" target="_blank">HERE</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">.</span> Our amazing friends in Philadelphia, the Jackleys, will be collecting the items and bringing them to us upon our arrival.<br />
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Another way to show Zoe that she's loved and supported is to send an eCard, which is offered on The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia's website. <a href="http://www.chop.edu/ecards/ecards.cfm">http://www.chop.edu/ecards/ecards.cfm</a><br />
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And so it is. <br />
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Pre-op Appointment, August 9th<br />
MRI/Cardiac Cath, August 12th<br />
Fontan, August 13th<br />
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Thank you for your love and support for our fighter. She's gonna show us all, once again, that she's tough as nails. In the next few weeks we'll be doing what we can, to prepare Zoe for what she's about to experience. I'm all but certain, this may be the hardest part. We've already begun showing her photographs of her first year of life. She's obssessed right now with watching her <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-kEsS8eqIo" target="_blank">First Year video</a> and seeing "Dr. Spray and mommy!" and when her post-op photos pop up, she exclaims, "oh, that's not good!" quickly followed by a "Zoe's getting better!"<br />
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We're looking forward to getting past the "oh, that's not good" and onto the "Zoe's getting better" part.<br />
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I'm sure it'll take a while post-op before we see this beautiful smile again, but it'll come... and she'll be back, with a vengence!<br />
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Staceyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00236715948080857359noreply@blogger.com1