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Posted by Claire
on June 18, 2009, 9:49:05, in reply to "A date!"
90.195.171.100
Hi Laura,
I know exactly how you are feeling. Although you know the surgery is approaching it is a horrendous time when you get that phone call with the date. I was exactly the same as you and burst into tears as soon as I put the phone down to the co-ordinator.
George had his surgery on 7th May and has made a fantastic recovery so try not to worry too much. If I were you I would also be prepared for a few tears on the day you arrive at the hospital for the pre-admission checks as it will be very overwhelming taking Mia in for the op rather than just routine monthly scans.
Please don't take too many clothes for Mia. Everyone gave me that advice too and I didn't think I had a lot but I had something for all kinds of temperatures. When Mia is in PICU she will just be in a nappy so you will only need clothes when Mia is transferred to Savannah. I took a load of vests that do up at the side for George and he wore those most of the time with a couple of pairs of tracksuit or pyjama trousers if he got a bit chilly. Most of the time he was just in his vest though. George had a cannula in his hand the whole time he was in Savannah so couldn't wear long sleeves, unless they were really wide so be prepared for that too. I'm not sure how old Mia is but I've got some 0-3 month vests that open at the side if you would like these? They are quite big so George was wearing them until he was about 4.5 months.
If Mia is on any prescribed food you don't have to take enough for your whole stay either as this will be supplied while you are there.
I wrote a diary while I was there too so I could record my thoughts at the time. It just really helped me to write things down and take my mind off things.
With regards to the accommodation for your other half I can't offer too much helps here as my husband wasn't planning on staying as we are only 30 minutes away by train but the nurses in PICU arranged a double room for us in the Ronald McDonald facilities in Evelina so he ended up staying with us until we were transferred to Savannah.
It really is an emotional time for you all but it is only natural. The staff in PICU and Savannah are absolutely amazing and I can't praise them enough so Mia will be in the best hands.
We'll be thinking of you but if you want the vests or want to have a chat off line please let me know.
Claire and George
xxx
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