The last few days have gone by quickly. We did the last minute preparations to drive down, make sure Lidie was set up and things at work were covered. Saturday we began the twelve hour drive down. We spent the night in Oakland with a dear family friend, Lyn. It was nice to break up the trip in a calm place surrounded with love and support. Sunday morning we met Ade for some coffee before she drove to our house. She's a family friend who will be with Lidie for the week. Sunday we continued on our way. After a stop in LA for some yummy vegetarian food and record shopping we made it to Josh's dads in the evening. We were tired but doing well.
Today we took care of the final pre-op things; a covid test for Amaya, got blood drawn and then made sure we knew how to get to the hospital (they've undergone a major remodel since the last time she's had any surgeries there). The covid test went by fine, but the blood work, well that wasn't as easy. Amaya is NOT a fan of needles or blood being drawn. She had a bad experience during one of her early surgeries and she's hated it ever since. Even though she was prepared and "ready to get it over with" so she could have her surgery it was still challenging. She got nervous and anxious as soon as she sat in the chair. The phlebotomist was patient and tried to reassure her that it would be quick, but that was no comfort. As soon as he tied the band on her arm she squeezed her eyes tightly. I gave her my hand which she squeezed just as tightly as her eyes. I was saddened to see the tears stream down both her cheeks. I rubbed that sweet little hand and tried to comfort her as best I could. Thankfully it was all done in a minute or so.
We spent the rest of the day keeping her busy and distracted. Josh and Amaya even went to watch a movie with Paco (Amaya's grandpa) later. The two hour distraction was a welcomed respite for her. While they did that I ran some errands. And stoked up on clear liquids that she can have in the morning (apple juice and 7 up). She may not even want them, but I want them available just in case she does.
Tonight she's allowed to eat until midnight (pretty sure she won't eat anything else) then can only have clear liquids until ten a.m. tomorrow. We check into the hospital at noon. Then we'll start the registration process, get her admitted and into pre-op. We don't have a surgery time yet as it depends on the surgeries before her. Since she's on the older end the younger kids will go before her.
These past few days have been a blur, but the one thing that is clear is that we are loved and supported. We have been showered with thoughtful cards, goodie bags, books, treats, listening ears and many well wishes. We are incredibly grateful for the love and kindness that has been shown to us. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Here's hoping for calm night and morning.
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