Extended stay at NIH :)

Madeleine’s Blog

July 11, 2013

So do not fear, for I am with you

Do not be dismayed, for I am your God

I will strengthen you and help you

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand

Isaiah 41:10

Healing up better now :)

When we last left off, Madeleine appeared to be on her way to healing up fine. But as the days progressed, her pain began to worsen. The doctors first ordered an ultrasound and then a CT scan, which revealed a buildup of fluid in her abdomen near the surgery site. The out-of-place fluid was pressing on nerves and other internal structures, and causing her a lot of pain.

So, yesterday, they took Madeleine in for a little more surgery to put two drains into her abdomen. The doctors removed a quart of the fluid and are leaving the drains in place until the situation is remedied as things heal. Apparently, the fluid is "bile" and this post-operative problem is not uncommon with this kind of surgery.

Madeleine definitely seems to be a lot more comfortable since the drains have been put in, so hopefully she can now really get on with her recovery. They are planning to take out the drains and her central line in the next few days.

NIH clothes-drying rack

In the meantime, this means that Deanne & Madeleine weren't able to come back home on Monday as was originally planned. They are not exactly sure which day they'll be able to come home, but it might be on the weekend sometime.

Staying longer means clean clothes are needed...so fortunately, NIH has on-site washers and dryers for families. However, when the clothes aren't quite dry at the end of the cycle, Deanne has found a way to finish the job (see adjacent picture).

During these days at NIH, Deanne and Madeleine have been able to meet other patients who are in varying stages of the same treatment, and it has been really helpful to hear their stories and learn from those who are further ahead in the treatment process.

Thank you again for your prayers and encouragement.